IMO, FICO scores are so generic that while you can filter out, you may also be throwing the baby out with the water - - missing tenants that are just recovering from messy lives.Before pulling a CR/BG report, I vet the previous landlords, employment and income, thus saving expense for a non-starter.Then, the CR (if you get a real one from Trans Union/Experion) will have all the accounts and their payment histories.  

If we had the highest water costs for example, those are variable and you can manage that better.

It has new a/c unit, water heater, and kitchen.

There will be a luxury outlet retail center that is going to be built on the water in the coming yearAs a Realtor, I can say: Due to Fair Housing laws I am unable to discuss the people of the areas only the property.

I am a chemical engineer in the water treatment community and am currently serving in the Army as an officer.  

You need permits, water, septic all kinds of inspections.Probably a good idea not to go ahead with the tiny home idea for the same reason.

It is pretty rare these days to find a deal in the Decatur, actual city of Decatur area, that is under water, so likely anything you purchase sub-to the existing mortgage could possible have some equity.  

A furnace replacement for $1,800 and a hot water tank replacement for $600.

The project is a green space/water reclamation area that may have a walking path and park.

In my neighborhood the tenant pays electricity but owner generally pays water/sewer/garbage.- Low crime is a plus.