For example, you buy the place and the tenant could claim the Seller allowed them to paint the walls black or that their security deposit was twice what the Seller claimed.

Includes practical advice on marketing, screening, leasing, handling lease violations, termination, security deposits, and more.

Therefore, you should do reverse engineer and find out the niche you like doing long-term, then match it geographically.

They would have to figure out how to reconcile that to report a property that they havent been reporting.So basically there's a mis match between who the IRS perceives to be the tax payer for the property (you). 

If no damages are found the tenant would get back 1/8 of their deposit (~$160).

At closing, I received the security deposits and pro-rated rent but was denied the non-refundable pet deposit.

Was there a security deposit?  

Most of the unit has a reddish brown/auburn style wood appearance flooring (that I wouldn't be able to match exactly), so I'm wondering what to go with to replace the kitchen flooring?  

Just be direct with your tenant and tell them about the report and either have them pay the pet rent and deposit you usually charge or tell them to get rid of it.  

. :-)@Todd Rasmussen -- I may just have to keep that in mind and see if any of my upcoming adventures match with ones you've run into!