With that being said, I personally know several people who've had tenants that stop paying their rent and try to hang around for as long as possible. 

In person is better than over the phone if possible, as I have been told by annoyed or lazy clerks "NO STR allowed" as that was the easy button to get me off the phone, or if they are anti STR. 

I take a picture of their driver's license.I ask for phone numbers that accept texts and any alternate land or business phone numbers.I ask for the names and birth dates of anyone under 18, and ask if there are any service / emotional support animals, together with their names and breeds.I also ask for personal references, previous landlord contact info (and length of time there), employer contact info (and how long there, together with earnings), as well as the name and contact information for their manager / boss.

Also, personalized post card size info/thank you card with the top 5 restaurant/bars or attractions in the area.

This could be a single person who has their brokers license or a larger brokerage like Keller Williams.

Personally when buying rentals I tend to buy in neighborhoods that I feel like I wouldn't personally mind living in and when I look for tenants I try to look for people that not only pass my screening but also I personally don't dislike.  

I do have an agent I know personally but she's only in the area at certain times of the year.Section 8 would be better than nothing.

If you truly have cashflow to spare I would personally look at the 15 year.

It sounds like this is their personal residence.

Hey @Mario Morales I assume you're planning to purchase the new property under your personal name rather than through an LLC?