I would collect a security deposit and first and last months rent as a rule. 

Once you have a list, a broker can run the purchased list along with ones you have through the National Telephone Database to find the best matches for phone numbers and email. 

@Matt Darak Some apartment complexes have a policy allowing tenants to pay a fee to terminate their contract...2 months rent or one month and the deposit

Extra bonus if its a smaller/boutique mixed use type property as opposed to something like a restaurant or retail storefront.PM me if one or more of your investments match this profile and you are willing to share thoughts.Thanks!

The debate between the 4 Plex or single-family homes if you match for single-family homes against one 4 Plex I don’t see any difference except that the single-family homes I probably have two extra roofs to consider in my set asides.

In order to make this decision, you must be able to analyze markets not properties), and learn to invest in the markets that will bring you solutions that match up with the financial goals (math again) you established in your REI plan.You will need to learn how to live on the "left side" of the equation instead of the right side. 

I am currently in the process of setting up escrow accounts for the security deposits for my tenants.

One thing you might add to your list of "to do's" is create a "Walk Through Form" for the tenant to sign when you give them possession so down the road there are no disagreements over the condition of the property when it is time to disperse their security deposits when they eventually move out. 

Having a non-refundable deposit helps if someone backs out last minute so you can cover those costs. 

The biggest rehab projects were redoing the flooring (with sound barrier underlayment) on the whole house, upgrading the addition on the upstairs to match the quality of the rest of the house, hanging drywall & sound board on the ceiling of the basement and upgrading the basement kitchen/bathroom.