Rental applications

[Michelle Marty]

I am using a leasing agent to get one of my properties in another state rented. This is the first time I've used an agent. In the application process she asks for an application fee to do a credit check and rental history she also is asking for the security deposit upfront, even though the property isn't available until feb. As well as pay stubs and two years of tax returns. There have been 6 times now that she's told me there were people interested and then nothing ever came of it. It's a nice house that's priced right. Ive always had it leased quickly. I'm wondering if it's because the leasing guidelines are so strict. No one has filed out an application even. When I lease my own properties I verify employment and check credit. Is the rest standard? What checks do you do?