Need opinion on selecting tenants

[Tony H.]

Hi there,

It’s been a while since I posted here. Sold my duplex 3 years ago and I just recently jump back into landlording.

We bought a single home here in Sacramento area and I have a couple tenants who are interested to rent.

During this time of year, it’s kind of hard to find tenants. So my options are limited, I have the two tenants described below.

Tenant #1.

Husband and wife, both make Ok. Just barely make the 2.5 rent requirement.

Both credit scores in the range 589-615.

Credit cards maxed out.. several late payments.. lots of credit inquiries.

Flawless Rental History though.. pays rent on-time or even early (according to previous landlords). Although they seem to mover every year or so.

Tenant #2.

Husband and Wife do not make enough..about 2 times rent. They indicated that the wife's dad living with them will help pay for rent.. senior in the 80s.. i didnt bother running his credit check. His income is from ssn and VA.

The couple filed Chapter 13 bankcruptcy 3 years ago and on payment plan for 5 years. They have 2 more years of payment to go. - I am waiting for more documentation on this one..

Credit scores and Credit history looks much better than Tenant #1. No late payments.

Also great rental history.. same place for the last 5 years.

I am leaning towards Tenant#1. I care a lot about rental history and income. 

The bankcruptcy in Tenant#2 scares me. Or should i not be worried?

Tenant#2 will not be able to pay rent if her dad is not willing to pay.

Which one should I pick?

thank you

[Nathan Gesner]

I wouldn't pick either of them.

Is the property in a low-class neighborhood? Is this the only kind of applicant you can get? Most Landlords want Tenants making 3x the rent, a 650 credit score, no bankruptcies in the last 5+ years,