Focus on key areas first (like floors, walls, kitchen, or bathroom), which may help you handle the costs more gradually, even if it means moving in furniture or updating fixtures down the line.Also, since the tenant left it in rough shape, be sure to document all the damage (photos, receipts) in case you decide to pursue reimbursement through their security deposit or in court.

Nomad also held the renter's deposit hostage even after I cleared the transfer with no damages to be charged.I had to remind Nomad there is a difference between “can” and should” , while you “can” hold a deposit longer it “should” only be done when there is a question about damages.My bank liked the guarantee, the disorganization inside Nomad and the horrible vendor management would cause me not to use them again.

@Jonathan AbradoThe 'Gator Method' is about partnering with a wholesaler that needs help covering the earnest money deposit (EMD) required by the seller.

I don't want to go back on my own word in any way, obviously, and had stated the lease was for a year.Now I plan to use apartments.com going forward for leases and rent collectionThe newest lease with a different tenant is plainly non-renewable and requires a new lease to continue tenancy after a year and outlines fee costs.

Operating an Airbnb business requires being up to date on current local ordinances and restrictions.

We have some $ saved  but don’t have enough to put a full 20% deposit down as needed by most conventional lenders.

I sent my first builder deposit for a home in Lehigh acres Florida in Sept of 2022 and the land is still vacant.  

Nothing you mention is "ordinary" and you should charge for all of it. dodged a bullet there thats a very good price take it from the security deposit and call yourself lucky. 

@Zach HowardThere is no legal requirement for landlords to actually witness lease violations firsthand.

Some lenders will also have seasoning requirements for the loan itself, which may be different than what's required for ownership.