Prospective tenant with collections & judgments on credit report

[Gina McKee]

Hi all,

I am conducting my first tenant screening process and would like some advice. I have received an application from a prospective tenant who has several collections (from 2009-2012) and judgments on their credit report. One judgment was from their present landlord. These are obviously big red flags and the only reason I am considering this tenant is their co-signer family member. The family member has stated that they will be paying the rent to us directly, and they have excellent credit, income and low debt.

Any advice on whether I should consider the tenant?

Thanks

Gina

[Nathan Gesner]

running a credit/criminal background check doesn't work if you have no idea how to use the information. They have collections or judgments in their past and apparently STILL can't afford rent because their co-signers are going to pay it for them. That sounds like someone too immature to take care if a rental! Are you so desperate that you have to take this person?

Everyone should have customized criteria to determine the worthiness of an applicant. With my criteria, I wouldn't touch them with a ten-foot pole.