Tenant Screening Process?

Question

Hello, I'm curious what resources investors use to screen potential tenants (e.g. background checks or credit checks) during the application process, other than just Googling the person? I'm just starting out as an investor and I've acquired 4 units. The units are currently occupied, but I'd like to be prepared when the time comes. The properties are in Indiana if that makes a difference.

Tim Herman · Answer

@Mark Aiken many screening resources. Cozy.co, rentprep, transunion Smart move, Zillow, and others I can't think off the top of my head. Have your tenant qualifications before you show the property. In your ad place your qualifications. IE: 3x income to rent, no evictions, no felony convictions, pets or no, etc. Follow your criteria so you don't get into Fair Housing discrimination. Even more important is study your landlord tenant laws of the jurisdiction of your rental

Jason Duhn · Answer

Hello,

I imagine there are probably better resources out there specifically for investors, but I thought I'd mention the below in case it is of any help to you.

Most counties in Indiana are in the electronic filing system now, so it is searchable by name. So you could potentially find previous eviction/criminal/civil cases where your person was a party. You can view the court dockets for free, but to pull the documents up you may need attorney login. https://public.courts.in.gov/

Thanks,

Jason Duhn

Indiana Attorney

THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE

Kaustubh Johri · Answer

In addition to the above, I will also ask for 3 references and previous land lord's details. Seems like a lot of work but worth it in the long run.

April Adams · Answer

I use the tenant screening service that comes with my membership at my local apartment owner's association (AOA). It has a full credit report with score, eviction history (and I believe) criminal history. It's been a while since my last vacancy.

Aj Parikh · Answer

I would ask the applicants to fill out the application on cozy.co. Its a paid service but they do background checks and screening. And you can collect rents through that portal as well. Very seamless

Mark Aiken · Answer

Thank you @Jason Duhn, this site was very helpful.  I discovered that all the current tenants have previous evictions!  I will be sure to utilize this site going forward.

Tenant Screening Process?

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