Quote from @Phillip Austin: There are two alternatives to a security deposit, which I speak about in my book.

This is a significant potential benefit that can impact everything from security deposits to rent controls to eviction procedures. 

I am now strict about the credit score, and not negotiating any of the other terms like decreasing the pet fee or security deposit to accommodate them.  

It does sound to me that a lot of that work should have come out of the tenants security deposit 

They are even working on getting me the evicted tenant's security deposit, the missing JANUARY rent since the place is still empty, and covering the cost of my own manager re-listing the property.

Our lease contains a clause stating the security deposit cannot be used for the last month's rent. 3.

This includes preparing the property for renters, pricing it right, marketing, application screening, collecting rent, dealing with unpaid rent and other lease violations, security deposit disposition, inspections, and so much more.

The vast majority of lawsuits against Landlords are for wrongful eviction, security deposit disputes, and Fair Housing Violations.

From what I have seen, the typical remedy is termination of the contract, refund of the EM deposit and all expenses incurred by the buyer during the failed transaction.

Each jurisdiction is different, but typically include a substantial deposit due same day up to full price deposited that day.