Advertising Your Tenant Screening Requirements - Good or Bad?

Question

Do You Advertise Your Tenant Screening Requirements?

Dan King · Answer

The more of your requirements you advertise, the higher quality of tenant you will get.  The downside is you will get fewer applicants and it will take longer to fill your rental property.  But the price is well worth it.  Advertise EVERYTHING to scare away potentially problem tenants and you will get a better renter who you will want to stay long-term in your property.

Sarah Ziehr · Answer

It is fine to advertise your requirements but just make sure you are not violating any fair housing laws.

John Santero · Answer

yes- I always state that there is a backround, credit check and the amount to process is non refundable. I mention if you have a felony, eviction or bankruptcy you probably wont pass it.

Todd Plambeck · Answer

Definitely!  It's amazing how many people that earn $2000 a month think they can afford a $1500 rental.

Gail K. · Answer

I agree.  I'll put requirements in my ad and, at times, believe I get many calls from folks who don't read any further than the number of bedrooms and bathrooms the rental has.  And then there are those who know the don't meet the criteria but believe telling me their sob stories will win me over (I'm so jaded this typically has exactly the opposite effect).

Dawn Anastasi · Answer

I always put my requirements in my ads.  People don't seem to care; I still get people who don't meet the requirements try to apply.

John Thedford · Answer

The only negative feedback I got was from someone that had pets. I always put my requirements in my ads. That saves me from dealing with people that cannot qualify.

Penny Clark · Answer

Advertising your rental and including part or all of your criteria can boost your chances in finding quality tenants and eliminating deadbeats. However, take care criteria is nondiscriminatory by taking a Fair Housing class and having an attorney review it.

Amy A. · Answer

I do, but never give out my name or real phone number until I've pre-screened.  I've had many angry emails that it's not fair that I don't allow anybody with a criminal background.  I've had some tell me they will report me (to who and how? Criminals aren't a protected class and they don't know my name).  I've had some tell me that it's illegal for me to have income requirements - I love the amature lawyers.

Yes, you will get a lot of angry, entitled people but it's good to screen them out online rather than waste time in person.

Advertising Your Tenant Screening Requirements - Good or Bad?

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