The main issue with rental basement is water if it has water issue usually it is a simple fix .Clean gutters ,discharge gutter  water away 10" away from foundation, make sure you foundation soil is slopped away from it .If you need to buy soil get a clay mix .Cut back any tree too close to the foundation look at the drip line that's how far the limbs are out from the tree .If all that is done still has water buy a sump pump  carry the water to day light away from foundation 10" to 15" .

Though, the HVAC has reached its life expectancy per inspection report - It was recommended that it gets serviced and clean.

Less cleaning but maybe more maintenance.

I've used Lifeproof from Home Depot, it was a little bit harder to install due to it's rigidity and thickness but it's extremely durable and easy to clean.

My question is, he's been clean for the past 15 years no criminal record before or after that incident, has now a fiance and has been living with her and her 2 children for the past 5 years, has a good income and good credit.

I'm so over paying $200 in cleaning fees in suburbia America to have a list of check out instructions.

Option 3 may sound tempting to you, but before considering that route I would interview prospective property managers and house-cleaning services in the area you are considering.

We would handle the guest communication, coordinating cleaning, minor repairs, stocking supplies, calendar management, etc.

Keep in mind that there may be legit charges associated with termination- for instance, they may need to hold some funds in escrow to cover lingering utility bills or cleaning after that 30 day period. 

My point is cash has no exclusivity on being legally clean and far from it.