Thankfully, since our offer was first, the selling realtor gave us the opportunity to match the other bid.  

For example I have found more than one site with multiple notes that predate the most recent transfer of the property--the borrower and the property owner do not match and in some cases the borrower has not owned the property for a couple of years. 

Considering you can't deduct depreciation or mortgage interest, and it takes a 25% deposit to even get a five year fixed rate mortgage - I might be better off just paying the capital gains tax and bringing the money over here.

Yes please add a pic so we can match face to the question.Introduce yourself - we're a community here.

Trump would probably keep the whole deposit and say sue me!

3. is it OK to ask a tenant to bring a certified check, as her security deposit ?

I recall from conversation with the zoning department that a tandem house must match the existing primary structure in building form.

Below, are a couple guides for your review. https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2007/11/26/demystifying-the-real-estate-rental-security-deposit/ (Security deposit laws)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/04/how-to-rent-your-house/ (house rental guide)

I definitely do the first come first served policy.Mine is strictly based on the deposit.

Great tenants who's deposit check/1st months rent bounced, first time home buyers who wanted 15% of the asking cost thrown in (closing costs, money for new HVAC/water heater/ac in cash, HOA fees, etc).