. - I will ding their credit such that all credit cards and other debt will cost them more.- I will keep their security deposit for funds owed.- I will do my best to garnish future wages until their debt to me is paid in full.This has worked 100% time so far.  

If I recall correctly, Rent Redi even gives them the option to pay using a credit card. 

I would say credit monitoring

I don't think he would allow someone that had to put the fee on a credit card.

@Hank Bank BRRRR is probably want you want to do.Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refi, Repeat.Before you go all in and either find out you don't like being a landlord or you make costly mistakes, start with just the next one.You'll have some challenges with tapping the equity in the townhouse:1) What loan amount can you qualify with your credit & income?

A cash-out refinance or home equity line of credit (HELOC) can be powerful tools to keep your momentum going.Focus on Stability:Look for investments in areas with strong job markets, population growth, and consistent rental demand.

In order to execute on any of the strategies from #2, you will want to a work/income history and decent credit scores.

What we really need is a single internet "bad tenant" list to warn each other.

Two, you'll have a much easier time obtaining a mortgage product if you have a track record of W2 income.In the meantime, continue implementing the strategies you mentioned: save religiously, build your credit, pay any existing debt owed, etc.

You need to build your credit.