Using Cozy.co to perform checks and applications

[Donald S.]

Hi Everyone, 

I am going to be using cozy.co to do background/credit/eviction history checks for my rentals going forward. I was wondering if anyone on here had experience with it and how they actually go about it. I know and like that the applicant pays Cozy directly for the cost of the checks, so I don't have to handle the money. 

Do you have the tenant fill out a paper application first and then if that passes, have them go to Cozy to fill out the application there and pay for the checks?

Do you just tell everyone to go to Cozy and fill out the application, but not to pay for checks until you tell them to? 

Or do you just tell everyone to go to cozy and fill everything out, pay the fee and you'll get back to the one you choose? 

My problem with the 3rd (and easiest for the landlord) method is that could end up being quite a few people who don't have a chance of qualifying that end up paying a non-refundable background check etc fee. 

So if you use Cozy.co or a similar platform please let me know how you actually proceed with applicants that you do showings for. 

Thank you, 

Cheers! 

[Patrick M.]

My hybrid cozy process:

1. I send a .pdf application to the electronic inquiry instructing them to either bring it with them to the showing or email it back. Depending on the tenant, they may wish to hold onto their personal info until they see that I and the unit are real. I think I would. They don't get to see the unit without it. This allows me to cut down the no show tenants and remove the curious neighbors/landlords. I also stack my showings 3-4 deep so the potential tenants can see how in demand it is and off set any potential no shows. Review all rules and requirements as we view.

2. I call references and the previous landlord. If they qualify and want it I have the tenant send me their credit karma .pdf report.

3. I then send the tenant to cozy.co to fill out an application with only the required info and do a background check.

4. All good- I send them a .pdf sample copy of the lease and policies for review. We meet in person to go over rules and the lease. I have them fill out w-9, lead paint form and lease and take the deposit. I send them the link to set up cozy payment.

5. Wife and I go out to dinner.