Tenant screening process

[Edd Sylvester]

I'm just beginning the tenant screening process and was wondering about some guidelines. My sense is that you can collect applications from anyone who fits your minimum criteria and then choose the "best" based on income, credit score, "gut feeling" etc. But the "gut feeling" thing seems like dangerous gray area legally. I've had some prospective tenants contact me who would be moving in with multiple family members, etc. I would view a family of 2 adults and 2 kids as preferred tenants over a couple, an uncle and a friend just from the standpoint of wear and tear from multiple adults, stability, etc. But making sure that isn't some form of discrimination. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Samuel Eastling]

Hello Mr. Sylvester,

I work for a property manager in Minnesota and our laws are different but I wanted to offer my thoughts.  First the "gut feeling"  is a dangerous area if you are ever caught taking one tenant over another it may be seen as discrimination and nowadays almost everyone is a protected class through the courts eyes. Also if you do get into trouble  As to you not wanting to rent to friends or a family with multiple adults.  I see multiple adults and I like it because more sources of income.  The easier they can pay their rent.  Especially if they ever do not pay their rent you have more people to chase.  

Best wishes,