While it's true that some jobs and work items don't need permits, verifying that they have pulled permits reassures you that they do legitimate and honest work.Ask if they are licensed and insured.

That will enable you to get started faster on your life's goals.   

I had thoughts that "legitimizing" my business would be a smart first step.a.k.a. making a website, having business cards, getting a separate "business" phone/voicemail to answer prospective leads inquiring about properties or offering them.Would anyone suggest that this is the right direction to go before spending money on direct mailing campaigns/driving for dollars/running advertisements via craigslist or any other source?

Failure to do so enables the tenant to plead ignorance of the law as a defense."

So not sure if the "tenants" were legitimately scammed or not.

@Cal Rohrman - You can legitimately rent things like washer/dryers to SEC8 tenants, but be careful.

Agents should know of people who aren't qualified to buy a house, for many legitimate reasons, but want to live in a SFR.

It gives you the marketing power of a 40 character message and clickable link on EVERY Bluetooth enabled Android device within 300 feet.Take it with you and passively generate leads.

So, it would be smarter to let people see the unit but prepare legitimate reason for not renting - credit score, income requirements, etcDon't take application when/if you know you're not going to rent them or they won't be qualified.Application fees are not refundable but I do read them whole list of requirements and explain in details.Like:"if you ever had an eviction, don't apply - the fee is not refundable", and eve explain that eviction is not their things thrown out of a house but simple process when their landlord file anything against them in the court.You can tell them on the phone though that you've just got an application and processing will take few days with your accountant, they can see the property but you won't take an application at this time.

I would advise that if you are planning to manage other people's investment properties, you absolutely get the LLC set up as you will then have a legitimate business.