Use the top three or four discriminators so applicants can screen themselves.Then you need to have clear screening criteria yourself.

I need to ensure that the rent-to price ratio will sufficiently cash flow as I intend to hold at least 5-years before acquiring any other real estate.  

But, something to add that you have to understand is that a 3-4 unit has to be meet the FHA self sufficiency test.

If you are cash flowing and have equity why not add two or three more doors and pay someone else 5% to manage it all for you?

Wire the EMD to escrow- Final inspection within 1 day of closing: With the home being occupied I would want at least three days before closing to conduct the final walk-thru.

At this point, we are three years in, and have learned that you sometimes have to have thick skin (grit) in dealing with tenants, managers, and RV site visitors; while maintaining a sense of humor and humility.

I have three investment properties that are occupied by tenants.

Proof of income is critical but I don't think you need to go back 3 years especially if they didn't own it three years ago. 

Quote from @Spencer Dixon: MY QUESTION(s):These three posts may address some of your questions.https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/998718-explai...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/1075919-five-...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/831924-beware... 

@Austin Bright Over the past three years, I’ve been using most of the major off-market techniques.Of all the methods, texting has been a double-edged sword.