@Zachary Barton Giving discounts will entice tenants to apply, for sure.

Secondly, does the "cash for keys" apply in this case? 

This may work in certain climates or seasonally, but I've ran into issues with it during "in-between" seasons where both cooling and heating was needed, so I ultimately just turned it off.Guests can switch between heat and AC but you are right, the temperature limits apply either way so it can be tricky on shoulder seasons.

I am leasing out my 1st rental property.However, the partner of the tenant that is applying doesn't have a SSN (not a resident or citizen) How do you navigate around this?

And that same thing can be applied for any finishes.  

Thanks for setting this up Jenny, I just applied on fb!

We went back/forth on his lack of logic and I just ended the call.To your situation, unless they filled out a adverse possession claim, beautified the home, or lived there 21 years, then squatter’s rights don’t apply.- As everyone said, get a lawyer ASAP for a civil and possibly criminal trial.

I have been told by the Sec 8 rep in my area that once a section 8 propertiy is purchased the new owner does not have to apply for section certification, thereby making it impossible for that new owner to accept section 8 funds.

Phi Tran is also giving you good advise about getting site visits (aka inspections) but no one will even let you apply for permits, much less grant them, until AFTER you purchase. 

Apply for a credit card at your local Home Depot or Lowes.