Tenant Applications - How do you collect them?

Question

Hi all,

I am currently using Zillow applications to process tenant applications and I've liked it so far.  I would like to proceed with one candidate but it looks like I don't see any important information such as SSN, DoB and D/L copies etc. in Zillow.

How do you collect these?  Thanks!

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I'm not familiar with the Zillow application. I've used Transunion Smart Move and it collects all that information. Those things are important in case you have to go after the Tenant for unpaid balances.

Michael Smythe · Answer

@Sam Faas check these solutions out for DIY landlords:

Doorloop, Hemlane, Innago, RentRedi, Stessa, Avail, Apartments.com, TenantCloud, TurboTenant, Buildium

Ke Nan Wang · Answer

Each application/screening charge a fee. They range somewhere from $30 to $50. The applicant paid zillow to screen them once and they can use that to apply for different rental listings on the zillow platform. You didn't know they've already paid Zillow. If they apply on Turbotenant or Transunion, someone, either you or the applicant has to pay for the screening again. Hence I said double pay.

If you receive a Zillow application with credit score and background check, usually that's good enough for me. I just need to verify their SSN, DOB and Government ID. I have had an experience in the past where I received an application with the background check, I when I verified the name on the background check, it's the applicant's mom's name. I called the applicant and make sure that wasn't an honest mistake and all of the sudden she got very defensive and started calling me discriminate towards her application, major red flag and I denied her and blocked her and that's the end of that. So SSN, DOB and Gov ID are important for that purpose and also for future collection purpose in case of a default.

You can do this very smoothly when you have them come signing the lease: "Hey XXX, when you come signing your lease, please bring a copy of your SSN, and DL so I can make a copy of them." I do this with every applicant if I didn't receive a digital copy ahead of time. No legitimate applicants will contested to that.

Sam Faas · Answer

Thank you all for the replies.

As I understand it, you still need the SSN and DoB to collect or garnish wages in the event this becomes necessary, how do you do this?  Do you collect a copy of their D/L as well?

@Nathan Miller counds like a fantastic and streamlined process.  What software do you use?

Tracy Streich · Answer

@Sam Faas   This is why it is difficult for self managers to have a system that really works.   Zillow is a great listing tool.  Their leasing manager really leaves much to be desired.   That is why I recommend even for a self manager to use some sort of software that integrates these functions.   @Nathan Miller has a great solution at Rentec Direct he mentioned.   Of course there are others out there as well.  I think for a self manager the key is remembering this is business and the question is not always "What is the cheapest way I can do this?"   If you are not will to pay a property manager at least invest in some tools that will make you more professional and efficient. Software for me is the first step because it answers many of the problems you will have like applications, screening, online payments and central accounting in one spot.   Best of luck.

Journey Toole · Answer

@Sam Faas

Give them an actual application, you can find them online or possibly through your network. Use a blank template for now if you don’t have one or use a software. I use rent redi for example and it gives you all of this info too. Will give you all the info you need including references, emergency contacts, etc.

Peter Mckernan · Answer

I use smart move and have for years, super helpful and gets all the items you need to give a greenlight or decline!

Sam Faas · Answer

I didn't quite understand what you meant by having them apply twice?  So this potential finalist candidate already applied on Zillow and I wanted them to fill out a Turbotenant application as well, since I am unable to view their SSN etc. on Zillow, plus make sure that they get a thorough screening through TransUnion.

Ke Nan Wang · Answer

If these are serious applicants, just ask them to provide those information. No need to pay for a duplicate application. Any serious applicants with nothing to hide would glad to provide those information to you.

I actually do not reject Zillow applications if I do get one. I know it's more affordable on the tenants' end and I don't fault for them using it. If someone who hasn't paid zillow yet then I would require them to use turbotenant. Also, once you have them accepted as your tenants, you can onboard them onto Turbotenant and you can manage them on that platform. I know Zillow has that service too but the first time I used it last year I ran into a payment problem so I haven't tried it since then. My neighbor is the Zillow rental platform manager and he keeps wanting me to come back to try their platform again because he's taking my feedback and incorporating them into their product. I just haven't given it another shot yet. You are welcome to try it.

Sam Faas · Answer

Thanks for that great feedback.  So just to be sure you do have access to their ID in Turbotenant once the tenant has uploaded it.  I think I'll sign up for it.

I am wondering, if I should pay for this applciation since the tenant already paid for the Zillow application.  Any thoughts?

Tenant Applications - How do you collect them?

Most Popular Reply