Now I am looking to figure out how to best screen my tenants early so I would have the lowest amount of vacancy as possible.

They are located down the street from each other and are of similar size and construction.

In order to get an estimate for this I would determine the size of the AC unit, snap some pictures, and call a licensed HVAC Technician in your market.

Minimum of 6 months of expenses (though I'd shoot for 12 months given family size).Next, I'd make sure I was adequately insured. 

Depends on the loan size, but there are numerous portfolio lenders out there that don't require tax returns. 

The other issue is that you are unable to dictate who pays for the online tenant screening... now the applicants should always be paying for their own screening but think in terms of applicants wanting to fill your application during the showing and pay for the screening right then and there. 

Make sure all of the window screens are in good repair. 

Rentals in that area are more modest in size and top out around 3,000 a month.

One thing I must stress however, be sure to screen carefully. 

@Scott MarshallWhat size of property?