While throwing questions at them, the second company said they typically only charge $300 for a security deposit (vs. the standard "equivalent to 1 mo. rent" - though I prefer to differentiate by making the deposit a little more or a little less depending...).Anyway...This guy's logic ran something like this: If I charge a tenant $300 for a security deposit, I'm communicating to the tenant that the deposit is simply token and they are liable for -all- damages above and beyond normal wear and tear on a property.

I'm a huge fan of open communication so feel free to ask anything real estate related.Cheers, Ian

Once the said closing date passed the seller stop communicating with me.

Shop around indeed.One other bit of advice, I would suggest not communicating with the loan officer through your real estate agent.

Late closing, not proactive, horrible communication then extra charges at closing. 

You don't have to become a slick orator however they will help you gain confidence and organize your thoughts in verbal communication.

In Illinois, you have to have attorney involved.They do all the communication.

What newbies don't understand yet is that it's easier to be honset and upfront in your dealings than to dance around the issue because you lack knowledge, the ability to communicate, to disclose what the deal is!

The yellow letter is not the "professional" form of communication that a property owner would expect form their property manager (IMO).

I'd say the only upside is being able to act quicker and simplifying communications, not really earth shattering advantages.