Maybe the landlord isn't responding because they don't see the applicant as meeting their criteria. 

A professional trustee such as Exeter Trust Company is the way to go if you want it done right, imo. 

Our biggest climate risks in central Texas are typically wind and hail, so anything of concern regarding the roof could get an applicant declined including trees too close to the roof surface, roof over 10 years old, etc.

Readers should seek professional advice.

I’ve been researching local professionals and would welcome any advice on how to vet and connect with reliable team members, particularly in a high-cost area like the Bay Area.As for hard money, I haven’t explored it in depth yet, but I’m open to the idea for the right deal.

Properties still have to be managed properly and who you do business with and their professionalism matters! 

As a professional property manager, I'm coming across an interesting trend related to institutions providing financial assistance for tenants who have trouble paying their security deposit and I would love to hear feedback from the BP community.Large PM companies have begun partnering with financial institutions, such as Rhino Insurance, to help tenants who struggle with paying their security deposit.

Then build a team of professionals around you and take action. 

Health professionals are generally looking for 1-2 bedrooms and even travelers in other professions look for that size unit.

Hindsight is 20/20.Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?