Lorain, OH · Member since 2017 · 111 posts · 53 votes
hey Bp. I’m finishing up the audiobook on managing rental properties by heather & brandon turner. I wanted to know what are some of the question you ask when you’re calling a previous landlord to verify the tenant. I do my 1st rental application verification monday. I just want to hear some of the different answers thanks bp
Rental Property Investor · The Vampire State · Member since 2013 · 2k+ posts · 2k+ votes
7y
How many occupants lived in the unit?
Did you refund the entire security deposit?
How was the cleanliness of their unit?
Did you ever serve them a legal notice and for what lease violation?
Which kinds of pets did they have?
How often was their rent paid late?
Did they ever cause any damage?
How frequently (if ever) did you receive noise / neighbor complaints about them?
Did they give you proper notice to vacate?
Would you rent to them again?
If you suspect funny business:
Do you have any relationship to this tenant other than in a professional capacity?
Who is the owner of the property? (looks up via public records ahead of time so you know the answer; this question usually trips up an imposter reference)
I also inject RE lingo into the conversation if I am dubious as to the authenticity of the person. I use terms that landlords/PMs should know and see if it gives them any trouble. It will be surprising to you how easy it is to spot a fraud with just these few tips. The posers don't expect those kinds of questions, so they are like deer in the headlights.
Investor · Santa Cruz, CA · Member since 2017 · 36 posts · 36 votes
7y
Great questions! Wesley, I like your question about who is the owner of the property. For RE lingo, what are some suggestions you have? Can you elaborate?