They try to get the renter to send them a security deposit or try to get personal info, according to what I've read.

If they qualify and submit a holding deposit and/or sign a lease within a certain amount of time (a week usually) and I haven't run the checks on the other applicants, I return their money.   

He had drained our joint bank accounts, changed his pension deposits to a new bank account, abandoned me and adult daughter.

Collect a security deposit when the lease is signed and require payment of the first month's rent at move-in.

It comes with both the Sweep Checking account that automatically takes any deposits during the day and pays principal first at 12AM each night "sweeps," over that money into the AIO or line of credit.Some features:-AIO or All in one - 1st position lien of credit accrues interest only after principal is paid at 12AM based on rate/365 simple interest and auto charges it to you balance on the 20th-21st of the following month (interest is basically paid slow and principle always first)- You get 2 accounts when you setup the AIO: 1) the AIO 1st position line of credit itself, 2) The Sweep Checking account- There are no monthly payments so long as you have available credit because the interest is added to your balance on the 20th-21st of the following month and that reports as an on time payment.- Margin on the AIO ranges from 3.25-3.75% + 1 month libor Index (which has lately been around .16% or so).

I am getting deposits of like $20, one month, $39 next month and now $1400 this month. 

If I represent my friend, could I pledge my 3% commission into the home for credits, buy downs or as more money down for a down payment instead of taking a cash deposit?

Positive landlord references No evictions Cash available for security deposit and first month’s rentNo Pets allowedSublease and sharing, airbnb not allowed,Reusable tenant screening not allowedEvidence of responsible character … i.e. reference letters, follows instructions, no lying, shows up on time, no major criminal record.

You'll also likely need to deposit any first, last, security deposit into your bank so that they see the proof of transaction. 

However, I have an entrepreneurial spirit and have a business idea surrounding how the current industry leverages security deposits.