I wouldn't sign anything except a month-to-month lease, and I wouldn't give a security deposit, because the landlord in this case can't be relied on to make timely repairs, nor can they be trusted to return a deposit.

Since the one has had a bankruptcy, actually she is a better credit risk than before she took that action and her credit score is still a product of her prior credit issues as well as the bankruptcy, that's because she can't take bankruptcy now.Another point is that unmarried coples in whatever situation are more likely to end that arrangement, si I'd put both on the lease and not be concerned with the credit issue, relying on the better tenant.

Particularly in the California and Arizona real estate markets, where bidding wars for investment properties are the norm, real estate investors can’t rely on banks to fund new purchases.

However; check out the facts for yourself, do your due diligence and don't rely on someone else telling you it's a good deal.

If this was my deal, I would try to lower the debt service expenses.Undoubtedly you already have an income from a job or career and will not rely on the cash flow from this investment.

Hi Tim, I've had similar experience to Brian, Bryan, Mark.I've relied on a few foundations to get into investing: books first, direct investing locally, Bigger Pockets for questions, and crowdfunding for diversification.

I would not rent to them based on no employment, (savings would not be a consideration.)I would not rely on "gut". 

I am slowly trying to close the loop on all of my concerns and using this forum to make sure that I do not miss anything major.I am going to rely heavily on the consultation of property managers who have better insights into the local office market.  

But he's in a market where almost anything sells, so he can rely on volume.

Relying only on a level of BPO without regard to UPB can also be a not so great idea.