House Hacking Question - Fort Worth, Texas

[Steven Lopez]

Hi all,

I have decided to begin house hacking by renting out the master bedroom in my town home.  Since I travel often for work, it makes sense and should accelerate my future real estate goals. 

My questions to the group are the following:

1) What site has provided the best results for you to advertise a room for rent? 

2) What background check company do you recommend? 

3) What else should I consider with this strategy? 

Thanks for your time.

Best, Steve 

[Donna Mixon]

Steven,

I would try aribnb, offerup and craigslist.

I would suggest that you have all applicants fill out a pre-screening via google forms which will then put it all into a spreadsheet for you.  And then any that might be candidates send them the next steps.

I would also recommend that you have a large closet in your house for your own privacy that no one else has access to or a deadbolt for privacy on your own room.  

Since they will be staying with you..... think about now what your list of rules are which might be common sense to some folks and others oblivious so really think about what is ok with you and what isn't.  

I would screen them just like a tennant - get credit, rental application, check background, check referances.  Get allot of referances.   For credit myfico.com has full reports.  and for background checks I typically use www.publicdata.com

hope that helps,

Donna Mixon