Another thing you could do to protect yourself some is request an larger security deposit.

If so, do I charge the $38 (RentPrep smart move) PER applicant, that then goes toward their security deposit?

You can also use bank statements where the lender uses your gross deposits as income. 

I don't have advice but I personally might replace the floor and take a certain amount of money as a refundable pet deposit that you will give back on move out if the floor is in good shape.

There are several of us who've been contributing on here for ages- but you can feel out who you think you'd work well with, who matches your needs best ect. 

The repose gray suggested looks like it would be a good match (looking at colours on a computer).

All in all £180 a month.My question is, would it be best for me to clear my debts/finance loans or keep these in place and use the savings for a house deposit?

One of the tenants had a security deposit that was not on the lease or on the e-stoppel, and the other two tenants claim they pay $500 less in rent (each) than the leases / e-stoppels show. 

If it a good idea besides higher rent rates and higher security deposits what else should be different than a 12-month lease???

I have a Roth 401K through my employer, which includes my personal contributions, employer match, and an additional employer contribution.