We didn't see any damage to the floors, but just a bad odor, especially in her closet, which is where she apparently was hiding the cage.

You know she has received some mail there and you are onsite for a reno so no reason to hide your  interest.  

Eventually, 401Ks, pensions, and all stock investments are going lock up, and the liquidity trap that we all know is hiding in the shadows will be realized.

Is there deferred maintenance or something like that hiding or is this his first property and he has just decided he doesn’t want to be a landlord?

They may respond by wanting to sign the lease immediately, by accusing you of hiding something, or they may just go away. 

@Tony Huynh - It sounds like the new tenant has something to hide and the current tenant is attempting to use threats to hide this fact.

Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come back, And tomorrow I will give it,” When you have it with you.Ecclesiastes 5:5 It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay.James 3-30-23    If you owe it, PAY IT, and don't hide behind religion!

Many times they will claim it's wonderful and then try to hide their worst deals by only showing completed deals.

There is no reason for a landlord to run a rent courier service.

Get real - I'd say it happens most of the time, why do you think wholesalers hide what the true buyer is paying from the seller?