I have 4 local STRs but pay a PM so my return is not significantly better than LTR.  

It's been about 20 years since I have gotten a mortgage since I usually pay cash.

We use a YTD paystub and last year’s W-2(s) to calculate income several different ways:Hourly or salary income calculated to a monthly amountYTD income divided by number of YTD monthsYTD + W-2(s) income divided by the corresponding number of monthsIf these numbers vary too much, then we investigate and require an acceptable Letter of Explanation.Employment StabilityUnless an applicant has exceptional credit, we strive to determine their stability of employment to make sure they’ll always be able to pay the rent on time.

So she will not have to pay any rent and just utilities for the year.

We use QB for bookkeeping and accounting, and Relay Financial as our bank so we can automatically sort out a % for taxes and we pay those monthly/quarterly depending on what the township requires.

Additionally, as reflected on your Appfolio Owners Statement, the tenant attempted to pay rent, albeit all 3 times it was returned as NSF. 

No experience with the 2 you mentioned, but I'm a fan of paying the year so I don't forget next month/quarter and the coverage lapses.

I'm so accustomed to paying these commission fees without questions as it's the norm.

Make them pay the full deposit and first month's rent (proves they can afford it) then give them the reduction the second month.4.

If they do the escrow or just partial pay rent they you take them to court for non-payment.