What employers want most are workers who show up on time, don't cause trouble, work hard (and sober!). 

Given the deal flow they see and data they have available they can help you sure up a pitch and ask tough questions as preparation.

@Russell Brazil says you can't add an extra fee for ESA, but if she is offering, maybe just reword the lease to incorporate a rent increase that ostensibly be used for any animal damages.....Tough one.....

If cities were really concerned about housing for lower paid workers, they'd allow more people to share a house. 

Really tough to gauge.

@Troy Forney Here is an interesting perspective I heard from a co-worker who is a lender who has much more experience than me and has seen a few cycles.

@Orie Brown Portland is very renter friendly so a tough place for landlords.

You can read books for years (like I did) to make sure you're ready but in this world the best way to learn is by doing the darn thing and having a rolodex of contracts that you can reach out to when things get tough. 

I have to admit it has been tough to pull trigger just because the stakes feel so high (risking primary residency, etc.). 

pretty tough following your train of thought ..