Would you rent to another landlord?

[Scott James]

Hi all,

I own a handful of rental properties free and clear in another city.  I'd like to include the extra income in an application to rent a place myself, but I'm wondering if advertising the fact that I'm a landlord myself would make a potential landlord-to-be hesitate to consider me.  I'm now in the Bay Area working for an IT company, and it seems the rental market here is very competitive...so I'd like to put my best foot forward and not scare anyone off.  Anyway, just thought I'd throw it out there to see how you landlords would feel about renting to other landlords....

[J. Martin]

@Scott James ,

I'm a landlord in the Bay, and a renter in the Bay, and my landlord didn't have any issue with it. I would also rent to another landlord. Why? They usually have plenty to lose. They hopefully have a good credit score. Cash for a security deposit, and additional savings to cover times when things aren't so good.

I don't think it's bad to put the rental income on there. Just emphasize that because you are landlord yourself, you treat the relationship how you would expect/hope of your tenants by paying on time, not calling the landlord for little stuff, treating the unit and other tenants with respect, etc..

ALSO, have a great "rental package." Application, paystubs, prior year tax returns maybe, personal and prior rental references, bank statements, credit report, etc.. Make a digital package and some paper copies to bring with you. Will show you're prepared and serious, and makes it as easy as possible for the landlords..

Good luck Scott!