You can request additional security deposit but new laws affect how long you can keep that, I believe only one year but you will need to independently verify this.

Those are good steps, it is much harder for them to argue against pictures and an invoice from an independent third party. 

I will generally avoid them but worse case I require that each meets my screening qualifications independently.

@Kris Nicholson You should join TREIA, and (independently) feel free to attend tonight's Triangle Deal Maker Sessions (go to MeetUp for details).

I always use Rusty at Smith D&L Insurance in Independence to insure all of my rentals.

Hi @Travis Salley, Not a great goal if you'd like to stay independent (no equity partners).

The result may have been different had the investor required the homeowner to see independent legal counsel regarding the initial transactions to prevent claims of ‘over reaching’ and ‘duress.’" 

Bret Kingcade you’re probably overthinking this.Contact the title company independently, not through an agent.

I'm using real estate as an ends to financial independence, and that freedom as the means to an end in community and social entrepreneurship.

It would help my growth (and progress toward financial independence) to have his capital to play with but I want to be sure and make a deal that benefits everyone.