They are NOT "security cameras" because we have not suggested we could, nor do we have the means to provide security 24/7 across the property. 

Hi Everyone,I was helping a client find a rental in the metro west area outside Boston and I noticed real estate agents who owned and managed the units they are listing were charging a brokerage fee to the potential tenant (my client) to move in to their home.I thought this was weird because why would an agent want to collect a fee from their potential tenant on top of first, last & security.

leases with security deposits are in contract. closing date is june 30th so there would be no pro-rated amount for rents. what can i do to guarantee they are up to date and i dont get stuck with someone elses problem?

I have already priced it slightly above comps, and yet people are willing to pay more, have a longer lease and/or pay from 6 months to a full year in advance to secure the property.

@Nathan G. what about security deposits?   

Also take a look at the grading of the surrounding ground to make sure water flows away from the house, not to the house.Siding can hide many damages, if you see patches or cheap siding recently installed, it is time to start asking , what and why.HVAC, how old, how old is the ducts, take a peak in the the registers, how dirty they are, HVAC handler closet, look for mold in this area, the condensate water drain condition and where it goes.Electrical panel model and manufacturer, google it for recalls.Floor carpet if any, I hate carpet because it hide damages and if it is secure you cant pulled it to look under, look for stains or cold spots, that is an indication of a wet spot. specially near baths Kitchen or egress doors.Kitchens and baths, old or new, try to look behind frig and dishwasher, they hide a lot of  water damages and are very subjectable for mold growth.

Pay out mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, management fees, etc.Savings: transfer the security deposit(s) from checking to savings and hold them here so you don't accidentally spend them.

Drug screens are my official day time job. 

Total out-of-pocket for me per month would be $555 based on the $5255 (downpayment + CAPEX + utility + other expenses like insurance and security) breakdown above. 

I'm in Los Angeles, have plenty of equity in my personal home, and am looking to secure a small LOC of $50k-$100k.