I never use it, in fact we don't give rent credits for a strict lease-option because the banks are so fussy...

My question for you is what are you looking for strictly cash flow , appreciation or both ? 

Or were you strictly speaking on cash flow returns of the property to make a profit? 

I plan to put 20% down to avoid PMI and then actually pay it off in 2-3 years (I keep a very strict budget and live well below my means). 

First off thank you for taking a second to read this post, any experience and knowledge provided is very helpful.I'll start off, the beginning of this year I made the stupid choice of drinking and driving, I was blackout drunk, phone was dead and instead of finding another way home I somehow got into my vehicle, long story short I got a DUI but am in the process of having it removed through a pretrial diversion program.I am not a heavy drinker, after that episode I definitely don't enjoy drinking anymore and very rarely drink, it was a stupid mistake and I never cause trouble... with that being said I now realize certain aspects of my life have become more difficult for simple things.I've been told by property managers that it may be an issue to apply for a background check through them, and then through HOA.I am a 23 year old male with 2 jobs, I'm always at work, make 50k+ a year, don't have the best credit score but no actual negative remarks, just a high utility rate I've felt no rush to pay off.Another thing is I dislike living in an apartment, I've only had bad experiences but not with a house or apartment.I've only had my name on 1 lease with no issue.Now the questions, with all these factors weighing in are...Are most property manager and HOA very strict with a DUI even if it doesn't say I've been charged?

Are you strictly cash flow focused?

Message me privately if you have questions about sale v. strict foreclosure. 

If it is not a vicious breed and on the smaller side, I would consider meeting the dog and if it is okay, then have him sign a strict pet agreement, add a non-refundable deposit and consider adding a pet increase to the rent.It is more a judgement call in my opinion. 

Also the city has recently gotten more strict on short term rentals so there are now license fees and taxes involved so I agree with John D and would go with a long term tenant if possible.

They are strict, but very ethical.