The key is to follow the notification process to the letter of the law. 

Quick update on my situation - I sent a letter to the hubby in jail offering him the option sign the tenant-to-landlord early release as well as giving the 28 day notice landlord-to-tenant, and luckily he signed the early release.  

Don't deduct off sec deposit for this.3) Send them a nice DATED letter with before pictures and current pictures of the house exterior.

Ask for whatever you can get from the agents - proof of funds, credit scores/mortgage prequalification letters, proposed settlement dates.

Send them a letter and try to get them to respond.Network at various RE groups.

What's a normal amount to pay monthly, interest rate and if they request a balloon payment how long should I have at a minimum.

You should get a loan letter from them that states the average time to close your loan and the maximum amount you qualified for.  

You can do a 20 or 25 year amortization with a 5 year balloon.

I was also fortunate to score really good properties below retail using personal letters to the seller.  

I sent her a denial letter.