I wanted to have a spot to rent out and cover the monthly mortgage payments while securing a small spot to have for myself in the next 30 years for when I no longer reside in Charlotte but want to visit friends, or downsize.

Due to recent security frauds and banks not covering losses adequately, apps like Zelle may not currently be the best option.

If your have tenants leave every 1-2 years and if it takes you a few months of lost rent to secure the next tenant what does that do to your numbers?

I do a lot of direct bookings that take security deposits, but with Airbnb, they are always tough.

I used furnished finder and keycheck to find tenants, screen them, and collect rent/security deposits. 

Like you, I was eager to start investing in real estate but decided to hold off until I had more visa security.

Victor is right they are becoming significantly more strict at approving these.

First, request the current rent roll, which details each unit’s rental income, lease terms, and any security deposits.

An estoppel certificate is a form you have the tenant sign that confirms their lease start date, the amount of their security deposit, and other things.

I look at the tenant's financial situation (income security) as a very important part of the property analysis.