First, there is a strong argument to be made against starting with an LLC - look on YouTube for Brandon Turner's video on LLC or not.

A strong set of data points and acknowledgment as a person who sticks to their model equates a “yes” with something of value to investors and lenders.

My offer was strong too...pre-approved, 35% down payment, large earnest money.

Usual is 3x rent, sometimes you see 2.5X rent.Your idea on deposit besides being illegal would be very bad for your units as there would be little justification in them taking care of the unit.Items that we list as mandatory to qualify for our units: No evictions (ever), Verifiable income 3x rent from sources that are at least present for 6 months, Cannot have been in more than 2 residences in previous 5 years, no missed rent payment on credit report, good credit, non smoking/no drugs, about 75% of our units do not allow dogs or cats, strong LL recommendations. 

Even if this is in a area going through strong gentrification.

I wouldn't consider that use high risk. at least not from a liability standpoint, they generally aren't super strong tenants, so take that into consideration for your tenant mix.

First, congrats on putting yourself in a strong position. 

@Corey Farnsworth: from a hard money lender's perspective, purchasing your investment property in an LLC (or other business entity) is strongly preferred/mandatory for a number of reasons.

The fact that it had strong tenants, newer property, NNN leases, in an amazing area that is in the path of progress.

Banks likely wouldn't do this deal without a strong borrower (credit score, assets, income) and experience (lots of both).