Certifications assure an individual’s qualification to perform a job or task and are typically issued by universities or agencies appointed to safeguard public interest.  

(I'm not saying this is ethical or even legal, I'm just saying it happens every day)The issue with this situation is that no one realtor gets all the REO listings, (a safeguard the banks have put in place to stop these types of shinanigans) so most times you are forced to compete with everyone else for the deal once it's on the MLS.  

Do you think 3 month leases with a month to month clause after lease expiration would be a good safeguard during this time to avoid the eviction process all together?

It's just wiser to have those safeguards in place. 

The other thing no one is mentioning is that there are some safeguards built into getting loans that you dont get going it alone.

I get replacement sub already on speed dial.  1) Trash out w/Safeguard - 1 day2) Demo -2 days max.3) interior Painters/Exterior painters - 2 separate crews working same time

As I read thru the forums, I certainly see/understand the validity behind proper checks/screening when searching for tenants.My question is, what tools/resources, is everyone using with their potential tenants, to help safeguard your investments?

However from what I do know, If you purchased a property in the tax deed sale, you are allowed to make "some" upgrades and/or payment to safeguard, maintain and upkeep the property, so:Installing new locks - OKStretching / replacing torn carpet - OKInsuring the property - OKMowing the grass - OK (I guess?!)

While I take care to safeguard their information and destroy it when I'm done, they don't know that. 

A couple of companies come to mind are Safeguard http://www.safeguardproperties.com or Field Asset Services http://www.fieldassets.com/.