Do you have any recommendations to what the screening process is like? 

I use ESS for the call center and then they notify me of a move in and I login into my systems using a remote desktop and program my new customers.

When you are interviewing them I would ask how they screen tenants and what that process looks like.

They had signed the lease, but I had held off signing until they paid the upfront move-in costs. 

Hello,I non renewed with a tenant who has moved out.

I would love to touch base and hear your process, management companies you recommend (if any), how do you find your renters (through a service or on your own?).

Well not all bad I’ve learned a lot I bought a 2 unit that needed work but it’s taking too long and costing too much.unit 1 is ready but the exterior needs work as well as the second unit. should I sell take a 35% loss and move onContinue saving/investing in repairs repair Just enough to get a HEL Nothing focus on my other business that is making good profit How can I speed/turn this deal around?

This investment is giving you TERRIBLE returns.If working remotely, could you sell your home and move to another state? 

You are highly unlikely to curb the tenant's behavior because:1) It seems they've been doing what they want for a while and now feel entitled2) Your post shows you don't have the assertiveness necessary to deal with this situationSo, recommend you either hire an attorney to start the eviction process or handle a PMC.

Tell them $150 or you are willing to release them from their lease and let them move out.