First time house-hacking, looking for advice!

[Tina Liao]

Hello BP members, 

I live in a SFH close to Sugar Land area in Houston TX, and I'm looking to rent two rooms out of a single family home I currently reside in. Does anyone know an agent/manager who can provide insights on the tenant screening process and possibly guide us in the right direction? Craigslist or Facebook marketplace did came to our mind at first but we are afraid to find someone who would randomly stop paying rent and become a pain to evict. Since this is our first time house-hacking, we would love to understand how tenant screening process works in real life. Furthermore, what are the regulations regarding security deposit? I want to make sure that I'm not breaking any law that would result us in a bad situation down the road. Thanks in advance!

[Tina Liao]

@Wale Lawal

Thank you for your input! Are you a member of any local landlord group that you would recommend joining? I am in Houston area but am also interested in expanding into other cities such as Austin and Dallas. After hurricane Beryl hit, many were left without power for an extended period and I really would like to put my eggs into different basket/market if possible.

I see that you’re a real estate broker in Texas yourself. Perhaps, you have a recommendation on a local (Houston) real estate agent that can help me locate tenants/roommate? 

@Nathan Gesner

Thank you for your recommendation! And I will look more into the guide! Really appreciate your input!