Tenant screening Euclid Ohio

[Ofir R.]

Hi there Landlords,

I'm about to advertise my first Single Family in Euclid Ohio and started phrasing an application form.

I was wondering if there are out there some Euclid's landlords that can share with me what should be my expectations and base requirements for valid Candidates. Is there any type of tenants I should avoid from? Do the common - 3 times the income, No eviction, Good reference and Clean background are the minimum, or do I need to be flexible? What about credit score?

Thank you all,

Ofir.

[Bob Collett]

Get an application from each adult... especially the current boyfriend who will be staying in the house. Determine how many “sleepover” days per month qualifies as residency.

I require credit score 600. If it comes in lower than 600, I adjust security deposit upward. Consider disqualification for collections or charge offs on credit reports. Getting tenants is easy... getting tenants to pay on time... not so much.

Consider asking to see a savings or checking account statement. It is amazing how many tenants have $0 savings. When a car payment, phone bill, or Christmas toys, insurance bill, food, etc comes up... skipping rent is easy for someone who has no savings.

There is usually a reason if tenant has no checking account... I promise it is not because the bank screwed up.

Create formal written guidelines and follow them to avoid discrimination claims.

Don’t ask a disabled person any question that you would not ask to a non-disabled person.

Remember, service animals are not pets.

Determine what type of convictions are disqualifying ahead of time. You are generally safe disqualifying for convictions for crimes against property or violent crimes.

Of course you cannot discriminate against children, but you can check local square footage requirements to prevent an unacceptable number of occupants of any age. Make sure you have specific rules regarding which rooms allow beds... you would be amazed where tenants will put beds... basement, attic , dining room, etc.

Many local communities (cleveland) have an ordinance that allows no more than 3 unrelated adults.

If you allow pets, consider a viscous breeds list. Every pet owner insists that their dog is the friendliest pet ever. Ask your insurance company if they have a viscous Bree’s list for rentals. Don’t even think of not telling your insurance company that the house will be a rental.

Also, there is usually a reason why tenants want to move between Thanksgiving and New Years Day... someone else just kicked them out. Verify.

With respect to 3 times combined income... what happens if the boyfriend moves out? Or the roommates split up. Thus one is a challenge to plan around.

Good luck

Bob