Screening Potential Tenants for a First Time Landlord

[Vincent Gizzi]

I am in the process of screening potential tenants. I just listed my property on FB Marketplace and was bombarded with multiple inquiries about showing the property. This was unexpected and I did not have processes in place to prepare myself. 

What is your advice on screening potential tenants?

I have been reading The Book on Managing Rental Properties. They have a potential tenant phone questionnaire which looks like a good starting point. What would be your advice about calling a potential tenant versus sending them screening questionnaire through FB Messanger before showing them the property?

What are your favorite screening questions?

[Abel Curiel]

Hey @Vincent Gizzi,

I wouldn't send out the questionnaire to everyone who inquires.

Call them to feel them out over the phone and to ask a few pre-qualifying questions:

- How many residents will be living in the apartment/How big is your family?

- What is your desired move-in date?

- What is the total annual household income?

- Miscellaneous - i.e. do you own any pets? What is your availability to view the apt?

As @Brandon Turner's book highlights, you want to look out for any suspicious answers during that initial conversation - i.e. someone who needs to move "ASAP" and seems to be in a hurry could be someone who is running from their current situation. 

Being that you have so many inquiries, you want to have a brief conversation to "feel them out" and determine who seems interested and qualified over the phone. By doing this, you'll save a ton of time as you'll only show the apartment or begin the screening process with the best prospects.

Best of luck to you on your journey!

Abel