Many people prefer the security of a one-year lease in SF, particularly for rent control and eviction protection. 

We regularly get 30+ messages and 100+ comments on a new property with how we get it out there via this profile...

There's no way our sump pumps will be able to handle the regular water we already get PLUS the additional water from the high-rise as well.- He has a finished basement and he does not want to handle the hassle.

Every situation is unique and there is not a one size fits all approach to protecting your mother's financial security, but there are some options that each has an upside and a downside to.

All funds, coming and going, must pass the security checkpoint first, before moving through the door to the next location.1 - The loan money sits in that account until the borrower/REI has the investment lined up that will make the payments back to the lender. 

I'm still very premature in my knowledge in how (or when) to secure funding.

@Blake Edwards - I just keep my tenant's security deposits in a savings account. 

In any event make sure you follow the law regarding security deposits.  

Typically one coat of good primer and one coat of paint will be fine for most regular lighter surfaces. 

At least not regularly.