These losses can be locked up if you're not a real estate professional (REPs).

I have listened to BP Podcasts, read about 4 books from Brandon Turner and I'm getting my ducks in a row before I pull the trigger and finance my first long term rental.

You might also look into a semi-hard money lender or private lender to do an all cash offer to up your perceived value to get the deal locked up, and roll some rehab into your loan for when you refi out with your VA loan later. 

Would ideally like a wifi-connected lock that has the most discreet keypad as possible (since they don't like changes to the exterior of the unit). 

If your transaction ends up being difficult and problems arise, you don't want an attorney locked in at $100 and hoping you just get frustrated and go away. 

Oh boy, you've gotta have your cleaners locked in to your schedule.

Long term tenants think they are entitled to do whatever they want to the property including locking out the owner, messy painting, aggressive animals, the list is long.

We can open the wall, put a door there for the store to use and lock the bathrooms in the store.

You can "sell" the idea by stating that every renewal gives you the opportunity to raise the rent based on the changing market, while "locking in" for a year gives them better stability.You do not state what their reason for requesting the shorter term is...you should ask for specifics.

Nothing is more frustrating to me than someone who either can't pull the trigger, or gets cold feet halfway through a deal and backs out.It's interesting to hear that you require an upfront payment prior to working with them.