#1 Our first mistake was allowing our first tenants to make a deal because they didnt have deposit.  

I do have one small job each month, two of my seven property managers still don't make Direct Deposits, so I do have to sign and deposit two checks a month.Owning a Coffee Shop? 

This will help weed out first term folks that are either not very responsible yet or that may be forced to live in barracks and decide to get a place they can't afford anyways with some buddies b/c its more conducive to partying.I also give a military discount, but make it contingent on the service member establishing an allotment (military term for direct deposit) to me so I don't have to worry about collecting rent.

You could also keep any deposit they put down due to the breach. 

Does anyone know if setting up a separate bank account for sales tax on rental income is necessary in the state of Florida, as is an escrow account for security deposits?  

Deposits are supposed to be used to repair tenant damge.

He found them a new apartment, paid for them to move and gave their full security deposit back.

If I get an acceptable candidate, and they agree to take the place and we either sign a lease (and we exchange one months rent and the deposit for the keys) or a holding agreement (and they pay a non-refundable holding deposit) then I tell the other candidates the place has been leased. 

A good way to eliminate co wholesalers and tire kickers is to add that you will need a refundable deposit upfront.

So I received my weekly mail this morning through that convenient slot in my door and curiosity made me go pick up that envelope and in that formal letterhead I saw the utilities' company's name in bold letters.