Tenant Screening

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I'm looking to create passive cashflow in the near future instead of only acquiring quick cash in rei. So, I want to rehab and rent out. What are some things to screen my potential tenants for so that I will be protected and have dependable tenants? Any help/suggestions?

[Michael Rossi]

Bleroux,

Start your screening by looking at their driver's license. Make sure they are who they claim to be. If they don't have a driver's license, they're usually a drunk who has had their license taken away by the state. Have them fill out your application. Start with a criminal background check. You'll be amazed at how many applicants you reject for their criminal history. At the same time, you'll discover whether they've been evicted in the past. NEVER ACCEPT A TENANT WHO HAS BEEN EVICTED (in the past 5 years), or a tenant who's spouse or shackup friend has been evicted.

I had a couple apply just last night. When the man handed me the application, I noticed that the woman's name was nowhere to be found. I told them that her name needed to be on the application. He said that she won't be living there!!!! YEAH RIGHT! They've got a new baby and the mother won't be living there. I must look more stupid than I really am. I insisted that she put her info on the sheet and I checked her state ID card (no driver's license - RED FLAG). I started my criminal background check with her and immediately found that she had been evicted 3 times recently, including on 8-31-07. That was enough for me. I'm not renting to these deadbeat losers!!!

Anyway, after the criminal background check, do a credit check and check their employment, rental history, and references. I could go on and on, but you get the idea.

Good Luck,

Mike