I’m also a fashion designer and like to take some of those elements and apply it to real estate.

The damage has always been above ground.

Here you have high turnover, high damage, high violence, high crime, but not likely high profit {though I could be wrong}.

Hardwood floors can get seriously damaged.  

I told them if I can fill without vacancy I would not hold their deposit except for damages. 

Go through existing tenant files to see who should go to eliminate the bad elements who should have never been approved in the first place.Add lighting around the property to keep areas from being dark around access points.

Legally how do I protect myself as much as possible, I know sometimes as a student some student party or damage or crime or etc happens at the property. 3.

we have also been renting out our house in Bennett. we had a little plumbing problem that caused some damage last year. during repairs, it was discovered that there was asbestos in the glue for the flooring.  

Are you experienced enough to see if you have termite damage, a rotten sill, un-permitted plumbing/electrical work (homeowner specials), subtle signs of water penetration, or any number of things that will kill your deal on the sale side? 

Other than the scratches was there much damage?