Would you rent to... a RE investor?

[David Hays]

I've seen a handful of conversations on here in regards to renting to doctors, lawyers, "professional tenants", but haven't seen this topic before: Would you rent to a fellow real estate investor? Someone that either currently owns investment RE (irrespective of location), and/or that is actively engaged in the pursuit of more REI (in this case, buying in your market). For the purpose of this conversation, would you make a distinction between someone who is otherwise-involved in the industry (e.g. Property management, wholesaling, RE agent), and assuming otherwise that they qualify on your basic criteria of credit and income.

Thoughts? 

[Ralph Hunter]

Legally, I doubt you could make a case for not renting to him or her on the basis of their chosen profession. I do not see a conflict of interest by renting to them. If an investor would decide to rent your property rather than own or rent their own home, I guess to each his own. Just make sure that you qualify them just like you would any other renter. Just because they are in real estate does not mean that they are financially responsible.