Zero dollars returned.Lesson learned: their choice to give up security deposit, not my problem.

Your business, your choice, but think of what you have to gain versus what you have to lose if you take an entire year's rent upfront... 

That’s great but what happens when you have no choice.

I recommend an electronic keypad lock w/ a code of their choice. 

(As a designer myself, I'm a tad biased :) It costs the same in materials in paint/flooring etc for bad design as good generally, but the effect of poor design choices vrs. good can make a big difference in your return.

Don't think it's relevant though, since in the contract addendum usually there Is the choice for the buyer......"

He decided that one of the next bulls had to be a better choice than this one, so he ran over to the side and let the bull pass through the pasture out the back gate.

I am concerned I'll settle for less and have to live with my poor choice to be poor.Thanks.

You can also control some of the vacancy issues through location choices, capital improvements, and marketing.

As a veteran, you have this choice to make.I would suggest considering both options once you've identified your property.