Many new landlords get burned by trusting gut feelings.Tip: Use income verification, credit, criminal, and eviction checks every time.

Do not work with people who defend criminals especially when they do NOT have the facts on their side.

The cops in the area know the guy, he is a career criminal who has held a gun to employees and at her, yet he is still involved in her business dealings and in her house.

Rent Redi or many other apps can screen tenants including criminal, eviction, and income verification along with credit checks.

Fix & Flip LoanIdeal for: Buyers renovating and reselling for profitMinimum GuidelinesFICO Score: 620+ minimum (700+ preferred for best terms)Down Payment: 10%–20% of purchase price (based on experience)Experience:0–1 flip in last 2 years = higher rates, lower leverage2+ flips = better terms (LTV, LTC, LTARV, rate)Special consideration for General ContractorsLiquidity Requirements:Must show funds for down payment, closing costs, and reservesReserves typically 3–6 months of payments depending on experienceLoan Term: 12 months interest-only (extensions possible)Rehab Scope: Detailed Scope of Work (SOW) required before applicationExit Plan: Must clearly outline exit strategyCharacter: No recent criminal history involving moral turpitudeEntity RequirementsIf closing in an LLC:Must provide Articles of Incorporation, Certificate of Good Standing, EIN Letter, and Operating Agreement (or Corp Charter if not an LLC)Must prove experience via HUDs or LLC membership tied to past dealsFunding Speed4–10 business days with clear title and insurance✅ Best FitBuyer has cash for down payment and reservesProperty needs rehabQuick closing required🔹 2.

At the viewing, I explain that Transunion Smartmove will do a credit, criminal, and rental background check (they check the eviction database).

When I was struggling to find tenants during the winter months, I kept debating if I should ease up on the criteria (700 Credit Score, no criminal history, no eviction history, monthly income greater than 3x monthly rent, no smoking or pets) just to get someone in, but I kept hearing podcast episodes where folks would talk about doing exactly that and regretting it. 

Look at the criminal history.

That should be enough for investors, but there's more She will also put an end to the illegal practices of requiring a rental registration for an eviction, The use of the local judiciary to prosecute, and the prevention of transferring properties with violations.

Violations may result in criminal penalties, civil liability, and professional discipline.Why Is This Rule Important?