@Ginger Schmidt You are definitely allowed to require a security deposit with a new lease.

I was Security Force in the Air Force.  

I was able to secure an FHA loan and they were able to get the deal done, as long as I could convince the sellers to move the closing.After giving up most of the closing costs I negotiated, the sellers agreed to push back closing and asked for a bit more earnest money. 

The old guard in companies are more stuck in their ways whereas the younger folks not 30 to 40 years in the business believe in doing business other ways.Again not everyone is like this and there are exceptions.

Did they give all the security deposit back?

Many title companies have lawyers on staff that can draft a mortgage and promissory note to secure their interest.

We see real estate investment as tool to put us in a better position to secure a legacy for the next generation while also providing us the means to do more for others in need!

You can also use the regular security deposit towards pet damage.

I currently work for a security company now, but I'm looking to transition out of that and start an entrepreneurial career.

IF at the end of X amount of time I am not able to secure a cash buyer we can part ways as friends or we can look at a price reduction