After 18 months I still didn't have a building permit and decided to cut ties with the builder and forfeit my deposit. 

And if so, what are the benefits of section 8 if the only guarantee is the direct deposit and yearly inspection?

Deposited money goes directly to loan principal.

The direct deposit on the 1st of every month is a wonderful thing!

If these are new cash buyers you’ve never worked with before, or you are using someone else’s list, then you need to include a NON-REFUNDABLE Earnest Money Deposit in your assignment contract.

was wondering if there are ACH service that is free out there.Thank you DIRECT DEPOSIT 

All good suggestions--if you find this becomes a bigger issue, one thing we have done in the past is offer back the security deposit in full to get people out. 

She can't afford rent, so you get her moved out by the end of the month, then apply her deposit to the unpaid rent, cleaning, and repairs.I may even incentivize her to leave quickly by offering to forgive the unpaid portion of rent if she gets out by the end of the month, but it really depends on a number of factors and I'm not going to ask for details.For future reference, best practice is to have set standards and adhere to them every time.

i charge a pet fee but generally don't require a deposit. 

Yep, raise some money for them, find them a deal, lend them money to fund a deposit or conduct their diligence…you contributed to the deal and in return they will give you a CO-GP title.