Tenant applies, now what?

[Kristina Hinostroza]

Hi! We are super new to landlording and have gotten a few applicants for our long term rental. We are using Zillow. 

First, do you call previous landlords/supervisors/etc.? And what are some general questions you ask?

After you choose an applicant that meets all of your qualifications, how do you then add certain things that you want the renter to be aware of/responsible for in your lease agreement? I’ve found generic agreements online and there is even one on Zillow. But has anyone used the Zillow lease agreements, and can you use free text to add clauses? Or if I use a general form, can I make my own addendum to the lease agreement?

Again, super new to this so any one would be helpful! Thank you.