It could be possible that he is an honest guy and just using outdated marketing methods which is DAMAGING his brand and reputation. 

Did it sustain damage?

Two or three years ago we had a storm that shut the entire season down and caused significant damage to people's property and streets.    

JUST the perfect tenant.. all 700 plus fico and never miss a payment and the only damage done in 4 years now was an ottoman that had something hot put on it and the tenant replaced it..

When a tenant leaves owing $2,000 in damages, reporting them to a credit reporting agency may pressure them into paying you to protect their credit.

The owner had no clue and didn’t initial the “liquidated damages” clause.

I furnished them from estate sales and local furniture shops, and the furniture/sheets/towels become damaged over time and need some care.I have a PM manage the remote houses, and they cash flow just fine, the PM handles issues that come up, and they paid off the debt on them once.  

All 3 had no flooding or damage..but there is always risk.

Next, ask them if you can inspect the property for any damage prior to agreeing to the payment amount.

Or is damaged?