He explained that they have money from savings and can make a security deposit.

In the future, more than just screening, GET A LARGE DEPOSIT. 

Occupied- As a lender we like to see long term leases in place with a security deposit, first and last of course and length of leases.

If they can’t do that then amend to subtract losses from security deposit if that’s legal in your state.

I've had my current job for 2 1/2 yrs making 75K per year and have a clean background but before I had my current job I was unemployed for a while and ended up filing for bankruptcy causing my credit to take a huge nose dive (sub 500 range). my Question is: to avoid the credit requirement (I wouldn't be able to find a co-signer) would I be able to put an entire lease down as a security deposit and pay my rent as usual so long as my income qualified?

Is there any leeway on getting additional time to complete work before having to return security deposit? 

I think the professional agents will be around for a long time....just my $.02on Car dealers Tesla is a HUGE DISRUPTOR  Just pop on Tesla.com   and see how easy it is to order your car in 5 minutes without ever talking to anyone.. price is the price there are 4 or 5 upgrades .. put your deposit on your CC and they build it for you.. 

This means I get a guaranteed direct deposit each month no matter if the tenant has a job or not.

also this is where have great banking relationships come in at a commercial bank not a big box bank.we got a memo from our Bank saying these loans were available but you needed  1. existing banking relationship 2. existing loans with them 3. deposit relationship.. all three not just one or two.. 

Get appropriate security deposits.