Some people keep fish or hamsters.

It's been several years that I have been on the Golden Hamster Wheel of tax deferral and I still do not pay taxes on the gains or cash flow from my syndication investments. 

Its just a hamster wheel...

Pets must be allowed if they're registered as a 'help' animal(I refuse to say service for the emotional support hamster).

Fish/birds/reptiles/hamsters/guinea pigs often co-habitat together and would be considered a single pet only (e.g., an aquarium with a dozen fish and a pair of guinea pigs would be considered 2(two) pets. 2.An additional monthly $35 charge for each pet , irrespective of the type(e.g., $35/month for 1 pet, $70/month for 2 pets).3.No aggressive breeds.

You can require ALL tenants to exercise responsible animal ownership, protect the property, minimize chance of harm to other people, and maintain acceptable noise levels that do not interfere with neighbors' enjoyment of their own property.A well-written animal clause will require the tenant to:Provide proof of current shots, if applicableProvide proof of flea control medication, if applicableDisclose the name and contact information of the veterinarian caring for the animal, if applicable (hamsters, for example, probably do not have veterinarians)Keep dogs in a crate or on a leash at all times when outside the dwellingUse a pooper-scooper, whether on the leased premises or another's propertyVary locations of dog urination, so as not to burn shrubs or lawnEmpty cat litter boxes daily into outside receptaclesControl  excessive barking that disturbs the neighborsAllow monthly inspections for pet damageImmediately clean any pet discharges and immediately report any damageAssist with Twice monthly HVAC filter changes for long-haired animalsKeep pet food supplies in pest-proof containersI think that if you approach the problem in this manner, you will be more comfortable complying with Fair Housing laws.

I make a comfortable living in IT for a Silicon Valley start-up, but I'm looking to create a side business and passive income sources (the hamster wheel can only spin for so long until the hamster tires).

These are the people that are hurting, and on a hamster wheel of debt, flashy status spending, financing what they can't truly afford, and having $0 savings.

I RUN an investment company - this shift alone will allow you to work less, make more, and not do the "boom and bust" cycles of most investors... having big months and then working like a hamster to find the next deal.

I do my best to prescreen people, but I still get "I know you said no pets, but how about a hamster/mouse/rat?"