But if they’re slamming heavy pots down, scrubbing with corrosive cleaners, or overheating it to the point of warping, that’s tenant damage—plain and simple.The lease is the first line of defense.

I had to redo a bathroom last year in a 2/1 in an occupied duplex I own and I spent $6,004 in labor and materials (10% off at HD/Lowes as a veteran, just didn’t do flooring and left the old vanity, doesn’t include the damage the leak did in the lower unit). 

Cats do more damage than dogs in my opinion.  2.

I've been managing 70+ midterm rentals for over 3 years and we have never housed a traveling nurse - in our area, their stipends (or what they are willing to pay) are much lower than we can get in rents with other prospective guests/tenants.Utilities are included at all of our properties and that is common practice here. 

One time a prospective tenant said they had their own refrigerator and asked if we could remove ours.

I have a small retail space that a prospective tenant would like to turn into a local coffee shop.

Move-Out Checklist for Investment PropertyA well-structured move-out checklist helps protect your investment, ensures a smooth tenant transition, and reduces turnover costs.Tenant Responsibilities (Before Move-Out)✅ Provide written notice of intent to vacate (per lease terms)✅ Schedule a move-out inspection (if required)✅ Pay all outstanding rent and utilities✅ Remove all personal belongings and trash✅ Clean the unit thoroughly:Wipe down walls, baseboards, and doorsVacuum and mop floorsClean kitchen appliances (inside/out)Wipe down cabinets and countertopsScrub bathroom sinks, toilets, showers/tubs✅ Replace any missing or burned-out light bulbs✅ Repair any tenant-caused damage (holes, broken blinds, etc.)✅ Return all keys, garage remotes, and access cards✅ Provide a forwarding address for the security deposit refundLandlord/Property Manager Responsibilities✅ Conduct a pre-move-out inspection (optional)✅ Take photos/videos of the property’s condition✅ Verify all keys, garage remotes, and access cards are returned✅ Check for unpaid rent, utilities, or damages beyond normal wear and tear✅ Hire a cleaning service (if needed)✅ Complete repairs and maintenance (paint, flooring, appliances, HVAC, plumbing)✅ Change locks if required by state law or property policy✅ Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms✅ Review lease terms for security deposit deductions✅ Send tenant security deposit refund (minus any deductions) within the legal timeframe

Taking apps and structuring loans is only one part; you also have to understand marketing, lead gen and prospecting, and day to day business management.

I had a front row seat to some drama and learned a few new words that day, but the guest was removed with no damage to the home.

Our attorney told me just return the money as the brain damage of going to court and potentially losing (court is really just rolling the dice - small claims court is not about justice and the law but what the "judge" thinks is "fair") is not worth the possible gain.We always sign a lease and any funds paid are first applied to rent and the SD is collected last.