They didn't pay and left the place a mess, with plenty of belongings like beds, clothes, bikes, etc. 

I had an extremely similar situation last year, it was a property I was fixing up to sell, the main contractor had some issues (maybe drinking, drug or gambling) and kept asking me for money saying he needed to pay the crew and has been working really hard.

Patients aren't usually interested in staying too long, so will likely be short term rentals, where traveling nurses will be longer.

Security deposits are never to be spent, they actually aren’t yours to use, they belong to the tenant until after they vacate.

I tried to help but don't want anyone to feel pressured, so I consider the matter closed.well U can lead a horse to water but cant make them drink.. keep in mind many of these folks were or are beginners .. so they may feel very intimidated to do anything but a post on BP.. and or are worried that somehow they will get sued by this guy..

as mentioned probate attorney but realize this process is going to be long and tedius. the brother would need to open probate and then any and all heirs besides him would have to get notified etc.

Our focus will be long term buy and hold multi family units.

Forums exist in large part to get opinions/advice on the thread subject.It is not reasonable for a tenant to protect their belongings for anything that can go wrong.  

Put snacks and drinks in one.

After some discussion in which I advised security deposit was held on behalf of both parties, he withdrew request until end of lease in September.I have advised girlfriend of his call, and she then stated that the security deposit monies really belongs to her.My dilemma is that the lease is coming to an end, and I understand that in PA, a landlord is required to return 1 month security deposit if lease is to be extended.The place has not been vandalised and is basically being taken care of, and I'm willing to renew lease with the girlfriend, who very interested in renewing lease, but who also now appears to have allowed a new boyfriend to move in.I suppose I could have this situation handled by hiring a lawyer, but my challenge is how should I go about retaining at least 1 month security deposit while returning the other.