Problem tenants can be a Landlords worst nightmare. Some characteristics of problem tenants are destroying your property, not paying rent, and even suing you. So, people who invest in rental property want to avoid problem tenants like the plague.
Pre-screening renters is a good way to avoid problem tenants. As a Landlord, the first interaction you have with a perspective tenant is usually on the phone. Once you make the initial contact with your potential renter, you should have a list of questions ready to determine if you move on to the next step or not. Some questions you should ask would be rental history, income, employment history, credit history, and if they have any pets or children. Most potential tenants will be happy to answer your questions, but be leary of people who seem reluctant to answer. Also, be cautious of people who complain about the property managers at their current residence.
After you pre-screen your tenants; you would then move on to the rental application, as long as you were satisfied with the potential renters previous answers. In order to fill out the paperwork, you should have the applicant physically come in to pick it up. Continue reading ‘Problem Tenants – Just Say No!’ »