Applicant screening (too many kids?)

[Ramiro Rodriguez]

Hi guys, just started my journey and I have put my first rental on the market. It's a 3/2 SFH and I have one applicant that has 5 kids. In total there would be 7 people living in the home. If I were to deny this applicant would it be agains FHL? Can I use a maximum of 2 people per bedroom as my reason for denying the applicant?

I’m not sure where to go with this. Help!!

[Sandy Gabin]

Hi Ramiro, 

I do calculate 2 persons per bedroom. But before you make the decision, do you know the ages of the kids? Do they work? Did you screened the adults? Did you talk with their current landlord to see if they are a family that takes care of the property or apartment? It all depends.  And if you are still not sure, then ask their previous landlord and ask questions. I had a a family of 10 coming after one of my units and I decided that I wasn't going to rent it to them not only because it was too many people but because of water bill. It's expensive and also thinking about all other expenses that we get every month.  Hope this helps.