Tenant Screeing: Background Checks

[Kevin McGinnis]

I'm getting ready to start year 2 as a landlord. Year 1 went great, but tenants are moving out at end of month, so I'm in the process of showing my rental house, and getting lots of interest.

Here's my question: based on what I've seen other rental property owners do in the area, I'm requesting a $35 non-refundable fee for background check.  I intend to do credit report, criminal records check, employment history, eviction records, bankruptcies and past address history.  For husband and wife, do I check them both, and charge $70?  Or just check the main wage earner?  Since people are used to a $35 fee, I think a family would balk at paying $70 non-refundable fee.  I have two families who liked the house and are currently filling out an application.

Also, I was going to use Landlord Station.  Has anyone used them?  Satisfied with results?

[Ronald Perich]

@Kevin McGinnis, I always start with a "Free" application but am very clear that every applicant over 18 will need to complete a credit, criminal, and eviction search and they must pay for it directly to the screening company. I also give them a copy of my criteria. You'll be amazed at how many interested parties will not apply just because they know you'll be doing a search. 

If they fill out the application, I do exactly what you do. An initial search of Madison, Saint Clair, Jersey, and Macoupin counties. Also a quick social media search. Get past that and I'll send them a link to the screening company I use (ISC) where they interact and pay them directly. Comes back clean and I'll call previous landlords for final verification.