How to Take Tenant Applications

Question

What programs/processes do you use to take tenant applications? Software/paper? What sites do you use to run background and credit checks?

Anthony Wick · Answer

• Screen over phone first. 
• Hard copy app after showing unit, if they are interested in renting.
• Prescreen based upon hard copy (could be emailed as well) application. 
• MySmartMove from BP if they pass preliminary screening process ($40, tenant pays directly).

Nobody gets charged anything until it appears they will be a good applicant. Only one applicant at a time goes through the paid application/background check.

Thomas S. · Answer

I do initial phone screening then have the application emailed. I will arrange a meet to get payment to cover cost of screening and take the opportunity to do more in depth personal interview before continuing with screening. 9 times in 10 by the end of that initial interview I will know what the screening results will show. I use the interview also to determine there character. This will often result in me having to reject their application without going any farther or wasting any more time.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

Taking applications online and screening them will cut down on the number of "lookers" you get. Charge an application fee high enough to cover the cost of screening. Make the application fee non-refundable under any circumstances.

I recommend an "elevator pitch" where you can quickly share your basic rental criteria within a few seconds. You can also post it at the top of your online rental application. This is a great way for applicants to screen themselves and avoid wasting your time.

Terrell Garren · Answer

Magan, are you flying an airplane, commanding a tank or running a NASCAR pit crew?  Even though I use Cozy for rent collection, I am so 1990s on applications.  I do heavy phone screening and email MS-Word applications.  I don't charge an application fee, have applicants provide their own credit reports and do my own amateur background investigation, then meet applicants to show the property. My guess is I have about a 1 in 8 poor selection rate but improving every time. Generally the good 7 stay with me for years. I'm sure others do much better on this, but it's what works for me.

How to Take Tenant Applications

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