Negotiating rent for the right tenant

[Colleen F.]

I have had a number of people look at a current rental and the ones that apply have been rejected so far. They are really borderline candidates, not terrible but with a couple of items put together smoker no rental history well they just weren't strong. I did have two candidates that looked good , one in particular that did not apply but I see is posting that they are looking for a place with slightly less rent. Would you follow up and feel them out on a negotiation? How would you do it? I know the post is her as it is a small area and she is a woman veteran with two kids and the details match. She wants to stay in this town. I liked this candidate and she suggested during the time she was there that she could mow the lawn (which is currently included due to no storage for lawn mower). I was thinking of suggesting less rent for lawn mowing on this and the adjacent property as we have a ride on mower. Since she only came not long ago I could just followup with an old email or call back which I normally don't do. I can wait for another candidate and the price would be better but I am tired of the nit wits,I think she would be a good candidate if interested, and moneywise if we she will mow I think I am about the same.

[Robert Leonard]

I agree with Jon K, it can be slow at this time of year and I believe it's for the same reason he stated. Most people don't choose to move at this time of year. Sure some moves will happen, but much less than normal as people budget for how to pay for Christmas.

I'm in the same boat as you with a vacancy right now, two to be exact. I've been here before. Be patient and stick to your criteria to avoid regretting a tenant decision that turns out bad. "Haste makes waste." That should be the theme of tenant selection - IMO!