You can have the applicant apply through one of those sites, and it will run a credit and background check.

We screen applications for fraud, income, identity, lease compliance, and eligibility for guaranteed rent.

Some common names you'll see thrown around a lot: Stessa, Apartments.com, RentRedi, TenantCloud, Innago, RentManager, Avail, Rentec Direct, Doorloop, etc.I recommend you search for each of those apps online and see what they offer, how much they charge, etc.

Afterwards, offer showings and have each prospect complete a formal rental application (and sign a lease, of course) before collecting a deposit and handing over the keys.To be clear, you’lll want to have a pair of boots on the ground—either you, a leasing agent, or a property manager—conduct showings.

Pre-Application Meetings (1–2 months) Meet with planning staff, engineers, and other departments (fire, utilities, stormwater).  

It seems the applicant pool has really dried up, as I usually get 50 requests to view.

For Zelle I have used before but because I have a have a business account my bank account charges a service and some time there are limits on the amount of money that can be sent per day or per transaction.

For a first rental, most owners split tools between leasing and operations.Zillow – Great exposure and easy applications, but screening can feel basic and lead quality varies.Avail – Good all-in-one for beginners: listing, screening, leases, and rent collection in one place.RentRedi – Simple tenant portal, online payments, maintenance tracking.

We have shown this property A lot more than the above home mentioned, a couple applicants that didn't meet out qualifications.

I would not be concerned, but I would charge a pet deposit if that is allowed in your state to further protect you from any potential damage.