How are landlords in SF handling the security deposit law that requires them to pay interest to residents on their deposits?

If you cannot clearly articulate why these are strategic locations that will reposition themselves and the guaranteed rent is the only way to secure paying tenants then you are operating a business, not investing in real estate.  

Most were in risky neighborhoods, but did offer security provided by the corner drug dealers.

Keep in mind you need so many different website plug-ins and features and you have to make it secure for credit card processing.

Also, what about internet, trash and security?

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

., but it does make things much easier AND give you access too a wide range of benefits, not the least of which is obtaining your SSN and being able to build U.S. credit and access financing.

The short version is this:  If you're willing to pay (considerably) more for the security of guaranteed rent, they are probably worth hiring.

Think of all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

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