Need info on screening tenants

[Zackery Bagby]

I am looking at different properties right now but I'm still not sure how to screen tenants.  

[Eric H.]

Greetings @Zackery Bagby,

I would argue that PROPERLY screening tenants is the biggest determinant of landlording success. I would begin with reading The Book on Managing Rental Properties.

Some tips I can offer.

• Do a site visit to the prospect's current residence. It will be an indication of their housekeeping skills and ultimately how he or she will treat your house.
• Verify employment. Do not call the number on the application. Look up the business online and use that phone number. Tenants do lie you know......
• Verify previous rental history. I've had prospective tenants lie about this too. To sniff them out I ask the 'landlord' what was the address of the rental. If they stumble or if it doesn't match the application, DENIED.
• Take a look at the tenant's car. Another indication of housekeeping skills.
• Background check.
• Make sure you charge a non refundable application fee. Check your local laws to see what is the max fee you can offer.
• Value your time. Have prospects confirm showings at least one hour before scheduled showing via text or phone call. If a tenant can't abide by this simple task, he or she will have a hard time abiding by your lease.

Most if not all of these tips I got from the aforementioned book and utilized them in my tenant screening process. Disclosure: I am new to landlording. I own one rental and my tenant has been in place for four months. So far, so good.

Happy investing!

Peace!