I'll just stick with a checking account
That's my recommendation.
looks like Chase doesn't have any fees as long as I keep a $2000 balance
Now to me, that's a bunch of malarkey and exactly why I don't bank with the big boys. A fee, for the bank to use "your" money? That's ridiculous. I'm with my local credit union where they pay "me" and there is no minimum balance requirement. Well, it's a $5 minimum balance which they call a "membership balance". But I'm not charged anything for going below that - which never ever happens.
For you, when your renter moves out and you have to give that deposit back, then you still have to make the mortgage payment and other expenses while it's empty, you can count on going under $2K quite easily and quickly. Remember the rules - If it can happen, it most certainly will.
Banks and credit unions in my neck of the country almost all offer free checking. Heck, with my credit union even the checks are free in packs of 100 every 6 months. I also have no transaction fees for when I use the debit card.
Overall, I suggest you shop around for the banking needs. Chase is the absolute most costly out there - at least in my area. Down here in FL only the snowbirds use Chase because it's who they were with up north. They don't know any better I guess.
