Submitting Rental Application Before Actually Showing Client?

[Steven Lewis]

Where I am located, many of the units fly off the market. Since it is so competitive, my tactic is to submit a lease application prior to showing the client the unit, and in most cases, the client is okay with that. Most times, we end up winning and I am able to secure the deal for them - making one happy client.

On the other hand, I have stubborn clients who don't want to submit any paperwork until they see a unit first. This sometimes ends up me driving around endlessly showing unit after unit and they find a leasing office to use rather than use me. I want to show value by asking for paperwork upfront but at the same time not to scare them away.

I am seeking advice how to engage with a renter and gather their credit report and lease application prior to our first meeting. Would also like your opinion whether you should submit an application first, or show them the unit before submitting any paperwork.