Cosmetic repairs that don’t pose health or safety concerns are typically optional.Then be very transparent and communicate thoroughly to the tenant, as to provide a professional explanation for your decision forward. 

This video below has the best explanation I've seen, even though the podcaster is still a fan boy.

Send a letter giving them your/pm's contact and a detailed explanation on how to pay the rent (Helpful with older residents if you are going from check to online billing.

You don't owe the ones you didn't rent to any explanation or anything of that sort.

But how about any explanation as to why all the cloak and dagger. 

Borrow the money interest free and compound onAs always DYOR and talk with your CPA.Melanie:  Yours is a good explanation.

@Michael Dumler thanks for the explanation here.

I work with a lender that allows that as long as we can document some explanation that the borrower doesnt plan on occupying the home as a primary residence.

All very rational and logical explanations, but all very wrong in my opinion.

These allrequire applicants to submit an acceptable Letter of Explanation addressing each specific issue and occurrence.Rental HistoryBecause a current landlord may say anything to get rid of a bad tenant out of desperation, we also requireinformation for the previous landlord of all applicants.