That is reliable, verified, legitimate and people are actually using right now to be profitable. 

If it's legitimately for security reasons make sure you document the specific reasons and add it to your SOP to head off any future claims.  

Are you able to qualify any of these leads as legitimate?  

With the rental deposit which we will legitimately retain, we only lost out on some unpaid late charges and a modest turnover charge.

Use your web presence to brand yourself and legitimize your business. 

I usually suggest to my clients that they use their web presence as a way to legitimize/brand their business rather than drive leads.

This is a perfectly legitimate strategy, especially if you're happy with your day job and are a relatively high earner.

If you have legitimate cause, you may be able to serve him notice and get him out, but you need to move quickly.I hate to say this, but paying him the $3000 is probably your best option if you want to close with this buyer.

How you want to proceed is up to you, personally I’d inform them that they did not follow the proper process by getting the animal before receiving your authorization, and therefore their ESA designation is not legitimate.

First lesson: wholesalers who bring legitimate deals earn their money.