-Charge an option fee 3-5% to get some cash-in-hand.

I also need some other “soft” costs (origination fees, etc.) taken care of to get the deals going for each deal. 

I want to put in place some incentives for new tenants and want to know if anyone on BiggerPockets has done something similar.Here are a few ideas I have had:First Month Free: Sign a 13-month lease and get your first month freePets: No pet fee for the first 6 months, year, etcRent Discounts: Offer a discounted rent for the first month or two fortenants who sign a pre-lease agreement before a certain date.Waived Fees: Waive application fees, administrative fees, or securitydeposit for tenants who pre-lease.Free Utilities: Offer to cover utilities such as water, electricity,or internet for a certain period for tenants who sign a pre-lease.Upgrade Packages: Provide upgrades or amenities such as free parking,access to a fitness center, or a smart home package for those whopre-lease.Gift Cards or Vouchers: Offer gift cards or vouchers to localbusinesses such as restaurants, cafes, or grocery stores as a signingbonus.Flexible Lease Terms: Offer flexible lease terms, such as shorterlease lengths or the option to renew at the same rate, to incentivizetenants to pre-lease.Refer-a-Friend Program: Encourage current tenants to refer friends orfamily by offering them a reward if their referral signs a pre-leaseagreement.Early Move-In: Allow tenants who pre-lease to move in a few days earlyat no additional cost.Guaranteed Parking: If parking is limited, offer guaranteed parkingspots for tenants who sign a pre-lease agreement.

With that $800 I would have to pay utilities, plus the management fee is higher than for long term. 

If I could chime in to help in the search:be sure to find an accountant who is willing to grow with you, and is not too high priced fee-wise.

Originally posted by @Chris Hutchens:@Caleb Heimsoth Have been finding deals that easily meet the 1% rule and possibly closer to 1.5% but I have also been looking into 35-40k homes.

Originally they were built in the 40s and torn down in 2016.

Originally posted by @Aaron Mazzrillo:I like Chicago Title out here in Riverside/San Bernardino.

I originally lived in the casita while I rented the front home out.

You will likely still owe their fee for the amount of work they've already done if you choose this year however.