We let them know we require this for the safety and security of the owners property.

@Joshua Smith, I would start with a good securities attorney and strong compliance attorney.  

Things I learned in my first job that have continued to prove valuable today: underwriting, managerial accounting, private equity deal structures, what a side letter is, what investors want out of deals, what a K-1 is, why real estate is a valuable investment class, what asset allocation is, where to find tenants, what cam is, how to handle Capex items in sophisticated underwritings, loan docs and negotiating terms thereof, understanding a lease, what an estoppel is, what a phase one and phase two are, how to read a PCA, basics of land use and zoning...Oh and best of all, I got paid to learn all of this stuff.  

Then just deduct from their security. 

Pricing seems to be all over the place, and would love to hear about personal experiences any BP members have had with building or securing alternative house options.The housing market has discouraged us, so looking for other options to get out of our current home in Reynoldsburg, and into something with a bit more yard/privacy.

Also, per Ohio law (where my rentals are) you cannot be reimbursed for wear and tear items from the security deposit.  

The thing is that the SFH market is tough to get into with families and investors both bidding to get those properties whereas this townhouse I was able to secure an accepted offer with slight overbidding.

Heck, social security is increasing benefits 5.9% and that's still not keeping up with inflation! 

If so, it's true seller financing in that you take title at closing, the seller places a lien on the property for security, and you make payments to the seller. 

The purpose is to verify that the rent amounts stated in rent rolls are current and accurate, that the security deposit amounts to be transferred at closing match what the tenants have provided, that the number of occupants/ pets etc. in the unit match what’s in the lease, and that there are no other “side agreements”/ verbal or handshake agreements between the tenants and current owners/their representatives.