Best Tenant Screening Strategies

[Robin Searle]

I've got one single family rental so far and had an excellent experience with my first tenant. She's military and has taken great care of the house as well as paid on time every single month.  She's getting transferred in January and I'm looking to get advice on your best tenant screening strategies if anyone would be willing to share. I held an open house as I had so many inquiries last time - I did two nationwide eviction checks, two credit checks and one criminal background check.  I had multiple applicants and would like to avoid the open house this time.

Would love some advice on how to make the process better/smoother this time around! I plan to start by advertising in Military By Owner rather than putting it out on Craigslist and Facebook. What are your minimum requirements? Do you run one check at a time (first come, first served)? Do you run them simultaneously and pick the top candidate based on your criteria? Any other tips from more experienced landlords?

[Johann Jells]

Applications and reports are great, but don't forget your nose. The best time to figure out a tenant is when showing them the place, that's why I dislike open houses, though I sometimes do them. Someone who's distancing or defensive when you're showing them the home is probably not going to be a great tenant.