Once you know your numbers, then you can evaluate different strategies, etc. 

Feel free to reach out to me if you have more questions, we can talk about those options. 

You might consider getting a deposit through a credit card but at move in, have those funds be certified.Second, it sounds like the former renter made up an excuse but the main thing is that if a renter does not want to live there, I would suggest finding a good exit strategy. 

I am a RE agent, investor and developer in central Houston, feel free to reach out with further questions or if you need help finding land that works with your numbers. - Chris Kersey 

Have you decided a market and strategy yet?

You can do well in the city or county with the right strategy. 

I am reaching out to see if anyone may have some suggestions on which small markets across the country (City or State) that may be a good place to start looking for deals here in 2024?

I would recommend that you first Identify a strategy and make sure that the market you choose that aligns with it then establish your Core 4 Real Estate Team. 

@Tomas Nuno there are issues with this strategy.

Feel free to reach out to one of us with your inquiries.