I ended up getting a slight rent increase in the first year and established the pattern for future rent increases.

My criteria is: credit history shows a pattern of financial responsibility.

Then they repeat the pattern in the next neighborhood over, frequently.  

So first off now that you see a pattern with this tenant don't be so fast run out and "fix" their imaginary maintenance issues.

I'm beginning to see a pattern here!

The benefit is that over 2-3 months you will start to see patterns and trends that most do not. 

State government is in a holding pattern or shrinking due to decreased energy revenue.

I see same pattern right here in atlanta.I've talked and met with homeowner's who have told me that they're also calling back other buyers from whom they've received postcards., this is driving up prices and narrowing our margins.

Other times you find mysterious holes in the drywall, weird unexplainable carpet wear patterns, or that they were using a teapot to cover a burn area on the laminate countertop.

But I'd make sure this isn't a pattern.