The problem with these bare bones leases is that they rarely have the provision you need to adequately protect yourself when certain things happen, such as needing to ask for attorneys fees for collections efforts, if your tenant claims that you made some oral modifications, etc.

It's just that some vital aspect of our character has changed that values show over substance & appearing bigger than ourselves.

The tenant screening portion is vital if you think theres going to be a recession.

Is this modification required to a new lease?

It is also vital to show up in person to evaluate the situation. 1 HR is not to far to check out your investment.

I would imagine it would be similar to a doctor or hospital saying "eh, you're fine, and don't need a doctor" without actually taking vitals or whatever, and then that person dying. 

Hey @Marci SteinI definitely recommend you speak with an attorney if the situation calls for it, as I am not a lawyer, nor should this be considered legal advice.With that said, it is my understanding that your lease likely falls within the limitations of the Statute of Frauds and, as such, would technically require a written, fully-executed agreement between both parties in order to make binding modifications to the terms.Personally, I wouldn't stand for someone trying to pull a fast one on me like that.

Also, once you allow them to make modifications, you may get into a situation where they give themselves permission to push those boundaries with paint colors, items rehabbed, etc and then you are dealing with more issues.Sounds cold, but don't do favors for people with properties you own.  

For safety, we offer a few modifications even before they ask.

No one would expect to talk to a brain surgeon before a nurse has taken vitals, would they?