While most investors will charge the security deposit, many landlords we've spoken to the Chicago area are trending toward non-refundable move-in fees, higher than typical pet fees, and higher than typical application fees.Security deposit laws are rather burdensome in Chicago, so the non-refundable fees can be a bit easier to manage and lower risk when paired with proper background and credit checks and vigorous tenant screening.

Again, some tenants might figure out how to fake it with a pair of pliers, or go buy the key at the hardware store themselves, but it's an option.

The property prior to burning down had an old pair of washer and dryers from the previous owners i bought it from, i just left them in when i rented it out and only ever had to have the dryer serviced over a 5 year period of renting it out. 

He started out with the four green houses, and is trading them in for the big red motel.hope this helpsBrent Benoit

The rest dont even bother.Of those that have had massive increases ask your self if you are OK breaking even after a 30% down payment.Then roll the dice, baby needs a new pair of Air Jordans.

@LaRussa Henderson we just went through an appraisal gap situation like this on a pair of duplexes in Detroit area, so i feel your pain!

Tampa is really starting to grow as a "business" city and when you pair that with the vacation market St.

Basically, something like a 2x4 or 2x6, between each pair of studs, with the broad side towards where the cement board/tile will go. 

. :)Lastly - I have sold several homes to tenants...I set them up with a bank who typically pairs them with a credit repair specialist...the tenant can buy the house at any point when they are ready at the market price whatever that is when they are ready (if the home appreciates then I gain, if the market were to crash like in 2009 by 60% I would decline sale and facilitate the the tenant in purchasing something on the market) .

It's about setting up this correct pairing, with correct property, and when do so it's like a perfect symphony.