We have a few one bedroom houses, they make for decent rentals here (in KC) but usually for either elderly folks who don't need much space or someone who has a pet (usually a dog) and wants to rent an apartment but gets turned down because they don't accept pets.

A word to the Newbies and Long Distance investors, BE CAREFUL of the advice you take, i have seen quite a few posts giving guidance from members that have read all the books, listened to all the pod casts, BUT have never purchased a property ever in their life, this is my biggest pet peeve about this site, while the exchange is great, there is No Vetting to be "Pro" just pay and your a pro, no experience needed.

Also location, floor plans, builders reputation, pet friendly or not matters as well.

The problem is that the prior owner had a number of pets, which she allowed to use the floor as a cat box.  

I've never heard of it, but from your description sounds kind of like when some owners charge a pet fee instead of a pet deposit.If an atty says it is legit I would ask for the fee credit pro rated to you.

But I'd add in:- no sub leasing- no pets, at least not without permission- no fixes, painting, curtain rods, etc.without approval- late fees after 5 days, and $10 per day until paid in full

Also, have a strong lease that spells out rules (pets, guests, etc..) 

The tenant did have a small dog which he paid a pet deposit for, however after getting the carpets professionally cleaned the animal smell still persists, and we had to have the carpet re cleaned.

Shortly after moving in, I learned that they had a pet policy that required the pet to be less than 50lbs.

Do you typically have them pay a pet deposit again upon renewal?