Finding a Tenant.................................................

[Alec Khlebopros]

As I get prospective tenants emailing me, would you have them fill out credit and backround check before you would show them the property or after.  My thought is if they don't qualify whats the point of wasting my time.

thanks

Alec

[Terrell Garren]

My experience only. Avoid interested parties (IPs) that want an application without viewing or need to move within 30 days or are moving from more than 100 miles away. 

Do heavy phone screening. I lead in with 'tell me a little about yourself' then ensure the following are answered - landlord history, employment history, income, credit score, reason for moving, how many people will be living in the house, etc.  Only schedule showings for the IPs that pass your criteria. Do not discriminate against protected classes. 

When showing, watch for the IPs that take the time to imagine how they would live there.  Avoid the IPs that are in and out in a couple minutes. 

My application directs that the applicant will pay for a background check if they are selected.  I don't charge an application fees.  It allows me to decline with a simple 'thank you, I have selected someone else'. 

Good luck.