Tenant "Good to know you are the owner, I just want 2 work with U

[Cali Skier]

I am new to the landlord business.  I have heard this phrase a few times from a few prospects.  Almost every time they did not make the cut.  We feel like we found someone that qualifies, and we liked them, they have 3 people that all have jobs. (Father, son, father's girlfriend)  They smoke and have two big dogs.  One qualifies for the 3x rent requirement on his own, and he is the main guy I have been talking to.  

Anyway he asked me a few questions/comments that made me raise a flag, not sure if its red or yellow.  Maybe you can help.

1. Are you the owner?  Ok, good I just like working with the owner.

My thoughts are, why does that matter?  I am going to be just like a Property Mgmt company

2.  "Is this your only property", I should have said no, but I didn't.  He said, oh so you are just starting out?  Great business to be in.

3. Tells me he lost his house and let the VA loan go, just walked away, sounds like short for bankruptcy.

So I am new to this, so being cautious.  We have a 3 coaches, 2 own property management companies and we have a screening process.  They have said they can pay $4000 up front in pet fees, rent and deposit in the form of a cashiers check.  So I am thinking if they have that cash and they pass the screening, maybe not much to worry about?

[Carolina E.]

@Cali Skier I think a lot of people ask and sometimes it can just mean they are happier dealing directly with the owner so things get done faster and no middle man.  Just make sure to always tell them "I'll get back to you on that"  if they ask you any questions that you don't have an answer to.  I know some landlords feel pressured to answer right away because they are the owners.