Once Apartments.com is going the money comes without much thought. i check on the first to see that the transaction has initiated then again on the eighth to see that the money deposited.

The deposit amount when working with a lender comes from the lender - it is basically the amount of skin the lender wants you to have in the game. 

With the tech I am using (a lesser known PMS) I am able to automatically screen guests, get their selfies, write leases, and collect deposits in my work flow even for Airbnb guests.

I have a separate interest bearing account for security deposits as required by my state laws.

.✔ Verify pay stubs – Cross-check them with bank statements to confirm deposits match.✔ Call the employer directly – If HR is off-limits, ask for a manager’s contact instead.✔ Stick to a Consistent Screening Process – Fair Housing laws require uniform screening criteria, so making an exception for one applicant could lead to discrimination claims.

Generally speaking, with SFR or small multis, I just rely on the lease/rent roll (and some form of proof of payment; i.e. bank statements, deposit receipts, tax returns, etc.). 

If you know that something major will need replacement in the future, increase the monthly amount you are depositing into your reserve fund.

We did give 50k deposit up front which he says he will use towards finishing up.

I am looking into a company right now that does rent guarantee insurance and also does in lieu of deposit will issue a bond that the tenant basically gets charged a monthly fee for.

Unless you have a massive deposit relationship with them like 1m++++ then they may do 20%That said they will finance the rehab if you’re a strong borrower and it pencils.