Screening International Tenants

[Mahesh P.]

Hello,

We just received an application from a family who lived abroad for ~15 years. They are US citizens but not residing in the US for quite a while. They claim because of this absence, there would not be any credit report available. They have provided details of current tenancy in the foreign country as well as pay stubs from their international employer. One spouse plans to continue working abroad while the other stays back in the US. From the pay stubs etc, the income is good to cover the rent.

How does on go about screening such tenants? What should we watch out for? The family is in a hurry to rent because they are temporarily staying in a extended stay hotel. All the documents provided look too good to be true.

Any ideas/thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

MP.

[Elizabeth Colegrove]

@Mahesh P. 

I always run a credit and background check. If you are worried about it you could always ask for the 2x or 3x security deposit (or max allowed for your state). Personally I find those that have "slightly" less "perfect" are my more favorate tenants. I find most "perfect" tenants, high income, low debt, great credit scores end up breaking the lease to buy or not renewing to buy. If they have no desire to stay here other than to be with their son. You might have a longer term tenant.