We charge an upfront deposit per pet in the property, and then a monthly fee for each pet as well. 

Are you going to be looking for an "Option Fee" deposit?

Keys: You need full security deposit, first month's rent, signed lease, proof of renters insurance, and proof of utilities in their name before the lease becomes valid and you give them keys. 

The clients have no skin in the game, not even a deposit.  

-Make sure you have a plan to handle all tenant's security deposits from the person you are buying the house from.

Contract itself doesn't state when EMD must be deposited with title.

Any work that has to be done to the house other than normal wear and tear is taken out of their security deposit.

While I won’t be able to have these funds deposited into my regular checking account until I reach retirement age, I do have more control of the funds, and I get to continue my education and experience in various real estate opportunities I wouldn’t have access to without this strategy.

Nowadays you have to do deposits on each property you want to bid upon. 

If you are looking to strengthen your offer consider above market rents, a higher deposit, and taking on some of the maintenance and repairs.