Quote from @Jordan Kaylor: I'm new to real estate investing and have secured a HELOC on my existing home.  

There really isn't a safe, secure way for someone to protect their interests.

We have secured a home equity loan against our home (which we own out right with no mortgage payment).

Also HELOC's typically have lower interest rates than personal loans since it is secured by your home.

I would echo the post about security. 

In mid February, many tenants get caught up when they start getting their income tax refunds (depending how fast they file).Income tax refunds also give tenants the needed funds for first month of rent + security deposit, so they can move.Check out this graph, which was created from tens of thousands of data points:Regarding your property, suggest the following:1) Where specifically is it being advertised?

Even with trump's aggressive plans for mass deportation and border security, I also have to think long term about future presidents' agendas towards border control too, and anticipate potential presidents being more loose on border security.

You will receive the security deposit in Checking but then transfer it to Savings.Savings: Hold the deposit here so it's separate from operating funds.

With inventory expanding, it feels like there could be opportunities to secure deals, especially if the right cash flow potential is there. 

New tenant must go through complete vetting, sign the lease, pay security deposit and rent, and move in, prior to the referring tenant getting their $100.