Just like a deposit.

These include rent control, security deposit regulations, lease violations, late fees, eviction processes, barriers to entry (permits, licensing, etc.), and so on.What are your thoughts?

We charge a much higher rate, a larger deposit, and a mandatory cleaning fee. 

There's no need to have cash sitting in an account.The only reason to have it in an account would be to avoid "sourcing" the deposit during a loan approval.Otherwise, the numbers should drive the deal.

The biggest change is the month of December and individuals meeting the challenges of paying for Christmas and move in deposit and first months rent. 

I can't deduct from the deposit unless it's the 1st of the month correct?

Think of all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

Offer it to the first approved applicant and give them 24 hours to pay the deposit and lock it in.

Correctly qualifying tenants upfront with income verification, background check and credit check, along with setting detailed expectations and structuring your lease with a minimum of first month rent, last month rent, and security deposit are a few things that will align your interests.

Think of all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.