I - nor my clients - will rent to anyone without having of proof of engagement prior to moving in.Hope this helps.

MOST don't try to trick their clients! 

What property management software or tools would you recommend for tracking rent payments, leases, and maintenance requests?

Consider an installment sale if financing is an issue.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

I’m struggling to understand why all of this is necessary just to use their property management software.

You don't discuss your investment properties or direct client wins.If you don't provide real-life examples of your success or your client's success, people will know you don't have the experience to help them.

Bunch of realtors come on a spout off that their clients cash flow from day 1 all the time.

Also look at pricing softwares and adjust accordingly.

One of my CFO clients just did this last year and got cashed out over $1M, which he's using to buy more properties.

Not wanting to sound like an attorney, but companies like the teaser because they are on firm legal ground: so long as company clearly tell consumer prior to purchase when they must cancel by [knowing statistically enough will not comply in time to make the teaser marketing profitable] be it rebates on computer software that many folks will fail to mail in, or real estate CD w/â€mentoring†or whatever that some unfortunate folks will not timely cancel, or Chrysler minivans forget to return….Legrand was very ethical each time I or my partners have tried his teasers [no Mr.