I would like to know which banking institutions and type of accounts you are using for security deposits that comply with Florida law.I have heard to use an escrow account.  

If you want to be as cheap as possible maybe you buy and install 4 window units and offer the tenant to leave And get all their deposit back. 5.

From that deduct the deposit (so that they know they won't be getting that back). 

I think it really comes down to what you are comfortable with but I don't think background check, credit card check, etc on top of a signed lease (and even small security deposit) is unreasonable for an MTR. 

You can also use a bank statement loan or SE program to use gross deposits versus taxes that have deductions.

Happy clause.....Its obvious you are not happy with the unit.. its rented "as is"..... since you are unhappy with the unit, I will gladly let you out of your lease within 30 days, with no penalty to you and will refund your entire deposit if the unit is returned in the same condition as rented. 

Non refundable vs refundable pet deposit? 

We did not fund the last few million of the raise, so we are allowing the final slots to come in at up to 20% APR, fixed annual simple deferred return (deferred means you get all of your interest earnings at the end when we repay your principal – and that happens when we finish building and then sell the apartment complex).This asset is our safest MF asset, in my opinion, BECAUSE the project is backed not just by our equity in the apartments – but by our equity in the entire 54-acre land development.

My credit union account shows the following entry:: "Withdrawal RT # NOT DEFINED [TENANT'S NAME HERE] 6060, -$1950.00." indicating that the deposit of the tenant's rent check #6060 in the amount of $1950.00 was reversed, resulting in a debit to my account of that amount. 

Standard down payment for a new primary mortgage typically range between 3%-5%If you need the rental income from the home you are departing you typically will need a fully executed lease and proof of 1st payment and security deposit