If I'm getting a healthy commission from a seller client, I probably won't charge the $299, I'll either eat it or deduct it from the cooperating broker's fee. 

Through property improvements and healthy rental increases (over 4% YOY in Columbus) this owner has a portfolio of properties with very strong appreciation since initial purchase.

Once you hit a certain number of properties that is probably excessive, but there is a nice security in always having a healthy buffer against potential problems.

@Edita D.I think your on the right track, thats a pretty healthy deposit.

Think of it as soil concrete.  

I use canine, feline, animal, 4 legged furry things that scratch, spray, bark and soil.  

I noticed at a duplex I looked that the adjacent neighbor has pit bulls.It is pretty clearly a responsible owner - the dogs look well groomed and healthy, and the owner actually enters them in competitive dog shows. 

I spoke with an agent and she said that one of the other houses that just got finished had to continually put new soil and ground underneath and while its only 3 blocks from surrounding high priced lots, the land wouldn't sell for much more than the asking price.

If you aren't willing to make it happen, I would be content with using cash or a HELOC and investing out of your direct control in a healthy job market with a PM that has a lower price and good landlord laws.  

🙏 Exactly foundation because of expansive soils.