Can you screen multiple tenants at the same time?

Question

Hi there, first time landlord here. I'm pushing our condo to the market and I've received quite a few inquiries. My question is, do I screen them one at a time or can I screen multiple tenants at the same time? I've always assumed that you should screen one person at a time and if he/she doesn't quite meet your criteria, you move on to the next applicant. Or is my assumption wrong that you can screen multiple persons at the same time and pick the one you like the most?

What would you do?

Thanks!

What would you do?

Thanks!

Thomas S. · Answer

If I receive several applications I screen them all together rather than do them as they come in. It's easier for me and saves time. I mark the date they arrived in case I have several equally qualified based on the application information. With luck I only do the personal interview and final credit check etc. on the one I deem most qualified. IF the report comes back bad due to the applicant having lied in the interview I move on to the next most qualified. Many times there are multiple equally qualified based on the application forms.

Colleen F. · Answer

You have criteria to screen against.  If they tell me they don't meet my criteria I  usually tell them that is the case and don't take an application so do some prescreening. (I can't stop them from filling it in but usually they accept the rejection).

You can do it either way best qualified or first qualified but if you pick the best applicant then you need to set  a  point system  or something along those lines to support best qualified. Also setting a deadline for application reciept or you can take first qualified.  Either way be upfront about it.