This way if there’s physical damage by residents the company pays the first $500 to fix it.

I ask to take a walk through and document the current condition as my agreement states they can not damage the property during this process. and of course don't give them anything until you have walked through verified they are out and have voluntarily handed over keys. 

If you tell the constable that you are concerned about damage, they may talk to him about leaving responsibly.If you are concerned about violence, have a means of defending yourself and let him know it.

Have you guys ever purchased a property without physically seeing it?

In this economy, what should I be physically looking for in a potential investment property that is "promising" or "trendy" that would give me the most ROI?""

What I'm really looking for is a simple platform where my tenant can pay rent online rather than send in a physical check every month (their current system...).

So, go with a good solution on the deadbolt.Screw a lockbox in a wall near the door for an emergency physical key.Find a locksmith that can rekey the doors between tenants - put ALL locks on the same key.Most electronic locks warn you when the battery is getting low.

They want someone who is physically local that can be responsible for issues that come up.If you are required to hire a property manager anyways, might as well just pay them to do the tenant placement.  

But are you saying to find a local bank branch and physically go in and develop a personal relationship with a banker? 

Hi @Akshay Kumar, it's never a nice surprise to see your property left in a rough condition after a tenant moves out and on top of it damages the yard.