:)The most valuable lessen I learned from failure.. and kids pay attention.. is ALWAYS have a full pipeline.Suddenly a lost deal doesn't matter much anymore when you have 2 more leads eager to sell you their house.

I try and keep in mind though that the tenant breaking the lease is essentially lessening my turnover costs since they are still rent responsible and rents can be increased (assuming your market will bear it).Hope this helps!

2) Do you have any pets and what type and weight?

Someone may have lost weight, gained weight, changed hair color, gotten eyeglasses or contacts, etc.  

Most places just put a weight limit on dogs. 25-30lbs is typical.

It's about clean, simple lines, light weight wood, etc.

But, if you can afford it, I'd put a little fridge in each unit and a microwave, and maybe even a little coffee maker, to lessen the traffic in the kitchen.  

This isn't third grade where this argument carries more weight: "i got there first, it's mine!

If that somehow isn't an option, I would weight out the pros and cons on a sheet of paper before deciding which approach to take.

In self employed situations we more heavily weight credit and when in doubt we just ask for more security.