Processing Rental applications

[Mags S.]

Hi BPs. I am renting a sfd after a long hiatus.  I have received a great deal of interest and so how do you handle processing multiple applications? (I'm using BP rental app).  If you receive several apps, do you run them all at the same time and see who rises to the top? (Each has paid an application fee).  How do you explain to the others of using their non-refundable fee but yet no tenancy? Someone had a higher credit score than you?? Also how do you collect the application fee? Cash, check, PayPal? I'm still trying to figure out who to use for tenant & credit checks. Thanks all. It's been exciting getting back into the game.

[Lynn McGeein]

I have been tinkering with my application process for my upcoming vacancy, and I have added this note in my application to explain my procedure.  Thoughts?  Definitely not first in-first out as no idea when employers or old landlords will get back to me, and I'm not waiting if I don't have to.

"NOTE: It is Landlord’s policy to verify employment/income and check past rental history before requiring Applicant to pay for professional tenant screening services. Lack of or slow response to Landlord’s verification requests will delay process of application. Landlord prefers Applicant pay screening service directly when instructed. No refund of any application fee once paid.

Landlord does not have a holding fee or holding policy. Unit will be leased to first approved applicant to provide required certified funds and sign lease. Full payment of security deposit required in certified funds at lease signing. Any prorated rent, if applicable, and first full month’s rent if prorated portion is less than 14 days required in certified funds separate from security deposit at lease signing. Possession of unit will not be granted before proof of transfer of utilities, proof of renter’s insurance liability policy, and any addendum documents (ex., pet records) are received, even if after listed lease start date. "