Prospective Tenant Screening Advice

[Robert Palladino]

Hello All, I am currently looking for a tenant to fill my first rental property. A little background; The property is located in a less-than desirable part of town, but the house is nice & clean.

I have one guy who is very interested in moving in. He hits all of my requirements except credit score. His credit score is terrible, but he doesn't have any debt. there was a past non-payment issue on an auto loan that he claims was his daughter. He has agreed to pay an additional 1 month security (PA allows this, but must be returned after the first year) His previous landlord of the past 3 years is his brother.

On paper, he technically makes enough money (3.5x rent). His income comes 1/3 from retirement and 2/3 from a job that he has been at for 6 years. He is supporting a wife & 3 kids. What would your opinion be on accepting this tenant?

Thanks a lot,

Rob

[Luke Marsh]

Hi @Robert Palladino  I would set overall parameters to follow, if they can't meet them then they cant rent it. Having some flexibility in the criteria for credit score/report history like landlord references is an option. Looking at the other factors like income, background check, tenant history, references, etc. allows a more broad view of the potential tenant so you aren't relying on a single factor. I would personally base the decision on the overall picture.