Philadelphia - finding/screening tenants from out of state?

[Michael Kirstein]

hi there - i own an almost brand new 2BR condo in philly (francisville/fairmount). i need help to find a new tenant in april, and am reluctant to pay my broker a fee of 1 month's rent. any advice on a reliable cheaper solution?  i'd like to outsource this since i live in CA - thanks!

[Jessica F.]

It's going to be a bit difficult since you are out of state. I normally advertise apartments on Zillow and CL but you still need a way to screen and interview them since you are not there in person. Unless you have a friend or relative who is willing to do it for you locally. I always like to meet with prospective tenants because I am a big believer in first impressions. I want to see how the tenant acts, dresses, and who they bring to their appointment--they are often tell-tale signs if the person will be a good tenant or not.