I actually had one stutter and then tell me (it was a young couple) that his aunt didn't want them on her couch anymore LOL.See if they ask about laundry or about parking or look at how big the closets are - if they don't, they're desperate and are just looking for anyone who will take them.Nolo Press has a good book about screening tenants, too. 

@Jonathan GodesActually, if you follow the link Account Closed This link will take you to the 2013 HUD press release, which explains what is expected in the case of service animals.

I love the Nolo Press landlord books.  

If your CoC is your most important metric, then you'll be hard pressed to find a better return. 

@Charles Press: Finally someone who understands the importance of keep each piece of real estate separate. 

I think you'd be hard pressed to find any other markets that outperform Indy or Kansas City.

If you ever notice people (non tenants) loitering afterward, call the police and have charges pressed against them.  

Nolo Press also has books on that.http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/landlordsAnd, as mentioned, make sure you can manage properties legally in CA.http://homeguides.sfgate.com/california-requiremen...One way to get management experience, is to be a resident manager.  

I have one pressing newbie question though, in order to move a property into an LLC you have to have that mortgage paid in full or refinance under the LLC right? 

“Give and it will be given to you, pressed down, shaken together and running over...”