You buy a property with whoever was in it at the time....every market has its own procedures for getting them out.  

The reason is that generally the insurance company is able to underwrite each contractor based on their loss history, safety procedures in place, etc.

AML PROGRAM Residential mortgage lenders and originators, the covered entities, are required to establish an AML Program that includes, at a minimum: ü Development of internal policies, procedures, and controls that are contained in written policy and procedure manuals.

Do I need to follow a certain procedure?

That is a pretty routine procedure for just about everyone I deal with from wholesalers to realtors to homeowners. 

Let me know next time you're in town and I'll buy you a pint of SDs finest craft beer!

At the very least, you need to read up on your local laws regarding tenants - you should never have your tenants telling you what the laws are .. and then you not being able to confirm or deny it - they can sense that you don't have a complete grasp on the law or the procedures so they are taking advantage at every opportunity and have been bilking you for months.

No need to worry about others making mistakesNot all landlords know the correct procedure for pulling credit reports.

I simply explain, I am a nice guy; I just have a business to run and have to follow the procedure as a practical business matter. 

Here are some things to consider, from our procedure manual, as some additional ideas:Clean window wells before painting begins.Order blinds on-line early.Doors may need time to be rehabbed; order early.Focus on outside and drive up appeal early.