Has anyone used the Zillow application / screening process for their rentals

Question

Hi All,

I am in the process of listing my first rental and was wondering what everyone's thoughts were regarding the Zillow Application and Screening services for tenants?  Has anyone used them and what are the pros and cons that you have run into.  Also, is there anything additional you recommend screening for that isn't included in the Zillow Application/ Screening.  The screening includes an Experian credit report, national criminal search, sex offender search and eviction search.

Thanks for your help

Nick

Samuel Eddinger · Answer

@Nicholas Frugale - CT just changed the law and their are very specific requirements about screening tenants and providing them a receipt which shows the amount paid for the screening report.

I only know of one screening company, Tenant Tracks, that complies with all the CT laws surrounding this.  I'd highly suggest learning the CT laws and making sure the company you use is completely compliant.  As tenants get more savvy about these new laws, they are more likely to call legal aid if you do not follow those requirements to a T.  DM me if you want to discuss this more.

Marshall Smith · Answer

Its good for a credit report, open/closed accounts, debt, etc. I use it. BUT I also use Truthfinder to run my own background check, and I have each prospect complete a pre-qualification form. Compare all the data. Make sure nothing contradicts itself. If it does, ask questions.

My big 3 requirements for every property.

635+ Credit Score

3x rent

Non-Smoker

David Sigler · Answer

I've used Zillow for the past year for a rental property in Idaho. It's a good, basic application but not that reliable when it comes to background checks. I called a prospective tenant today who showed a clear background from Zillow. She advised me she was a convicted felon for drugs and had a pending court date in 10 days. What! Turns out Zillow is notorious for back background checks. I'll need to augment that process moving forward.

Nicole Gonzalez · Answer

Hi Nicholas,

I just listed my 1st rental property as well (located in Henderson, NV). I posted the property on both Zillow rental manager and turbo tenant. I just read a thread (on bigger pockets) that had bad reviews as far as the background checks used on Zillow. Some individuals reported that pertinent history was missed in the screening process that lead to a nightmare. I still am still favoring Zillow way more than Turbo Tenant. I've easily quadrupled the leads using Zillow Rental Manager (premium/upgraded $30.00 version). Anyway, I'm putting my stamp on here to follow the thread.

Good luck renting out your 1st property & CONGRATULATIONS. :)

Nicole

Cliff H. · Answer

@Nicholas Frugale yes. However if you’re using Zillow for 100% of your screening you’re missing the point: it’s lead gen, not full service screening. You need a 100:1 ratio of inquiries to acceptance. Zillow is one piece of that funnel.

Carini Rochester · Answer

I use Zillow. I just used it this week and filled the apartment in 48 hours.

Mike Montague · Answer

I have used Zillow and found it to provide reliable information, including criminal records.

JD Martin · Answer

Zillow is ok - not as good as TransUnion but it's serviceable.

Has anyone used the Zillow application / screening process for their rentals

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