Avoiding problematic tenant

[Michael Nahm]

Hi all,

Am again seeking from the wisdom of the forum.

We have three rentals up for rent. A potential tenant saw two of them, likes one and after plenty of back and forth with questions and information, she applied with her sibling.

I personally think application fees are a lot of money to spend, so we routinely stop all showings until an application is processed.

We approved the applicants.

Now the fun part. They made an appointment to see the house again, prior to signing a lease. We wait, they don’t show.

We call, and the applicant says we made plans to meet the following day instead.

Sure. It happens. Our bad.

Next day, no show again, and this time, no response either.

The lease is yet to be signed.

I realize things happen (they also requested a delay in the move in date). But haven’t ever had issues with flakiness after approval.

Wondering what to do.

[Nathan Gesner]

What to do? Don't stop taking applications!

These people are playing you because you let them. Many applicants start the process but then take their own sweet time turning in pay stubs, picture ID, or their former Landlord's phone number. Why should you waste precious time waiting for them when there are other applicants in the wings?

I take applications as they come in and I process them as soon as they are complete. Once approved, I offer them the rental and give them 24 hours to pay the deposit. If they fail to pay, I offer it to the next approved applicant.

I don't hold anything until I have money in hand because that shows commitment.