If I get a judgment against them I could possibly get possession of that valuable poodle and auction it off at a poodle-lover auction!

If lightning strikes the house it's on you for the house and their renters insurance would replace their possessions.  

In Burlington city NJ a Cetificate of resgistration application needs to be turned in for every tenant turn over. there is a change of occupancy fee that is $100 or $75 if a criminal screening report is turned in.Unfortunately my prospective tenant that has some history. 2 Felonies (Fireworks and coke possession) from 13yrs ago that were dismissed but do not state that in the report. in the past they accepted the CoR application and just scheduled an inspection right away, i don't know if they dug into the tenants background.i know the prospective tenant personally, i know where he works and the people he works for.

In FL you have to give them the choice of taking a chance on you finding another renter right away, or paying a termination fee.If they chose to take a chance on you finding another tenant right away, and you took possession, by accepting the keys and listing the property - then, they don't have to pay July rent.  

To the tenant say, "As you are still in possession of the premises, I will begin eviction proceedings immediately."

App_...Actually, landlords in FL still have the option to sit on their hands and not take possession, and continue to hold the tenant liable.  

Some tenants will stonewall you because of fears they will be forced to leave when a new owner takes possession.

It is pretty hard to do if it's not in your possession.

Don't ask for additional rent, just ask for possession.

Start the clock on the security deposit accounting from the day they do not take possession.