One San Leandro landlord is owed $132,000 in back rent and in Oakland you can't discriminate against rental applicants with a criminal back ground (except sex offenders) and several stories of non-paying tenants which took thousands in legal fees to evict in Oakland. 

Every year, you are giving this guy more money in the current deal.Finally, since you will be acting like a bank, then you also need to vet this guy - credit checks and references and background checks.

Also, it would be great if I could get some suggestions on what website/tool to use to do background checks and e-sign lease agreements.  

I have a background in photography, marketing, and environmentalism.

We had an advantage because not many people that we found had an actual formal credit background.

My background is in building, with a degree from TAMU in Construction Science, and I'm currently a project manager overseeing new construction and remodeling of high end custom homes in Houston.

Do background checks on anyone applying. 

Rent collection, tenant communication, template leases, electronic lease signatures, marketing, tax form prep, move-in/move-out forms, automated email reminders, background/credit checks, this list goes on.  

My intention is not to boast but to inspire and share the significant impact that BiggerPockets, especially Joshua Dorkin and Brandon Turner, have had on my life.I first encountered BiggerPockets at 23 while enduring long 14+ hour days as a pipe fitter on hydroelectric dams in northern Manitoba, working 21 days on and 5 days off shift schedules.Although I was earning well for my age and educational background (I barely graduated high school), the job was unfulfilling and almost toxic, mainly because of the dynamics with the associates in the industry.

Your IT background will give you a unique edge in analyzing deals and managing properties efficiently.Final ThoughtYou’ve got the passion and the drive, Anne Marie.