The floor plan is a good match for this sort of situation, and the neighborhood tends to draw in professionals.

She just sort of poked at things with a sponge for a few hours until I paid her off and sent her home.

I did that technique almost identical on one deal sort of by accident because we decided to change how it was titled, last minute.

Unlimited, sort of.

What does your contract with the staging company say about this sort of thing?

I agree with others that she will try the same with you - but you are already collecting last months rent upfront, so you won't have to dip into the security deposit to cover this sort of antic.At this time of year I always try to keep the lease duration so that it ends between May and July if possible, since that is the time when more tenants are looking for a new place.

I'd get her to an attorney or ombudsman (if your county HA has one) who can sort out what the reasons for cutting her off really are.  

Hey BiggerPockets,I'm new to the site, and I get the sense that dropping an intro like this is the way to get started off right.I've sort of been a real estate investor since my first home in 2004 - when I rented out two of the three bedrooms to friends.  

I assume there is some sort of contract that needs to be handled by a lawyer, but is there any other significant action I would need to take?

Same as above but won't be able to get a HELOC so need to qualify for some other loan (Construction maybe or just a personal loan of some sort).