How Do You Ensure Quality Tenants?

[Alec Barnes]

I know there are a variety of screening practices used by landlords and property management companies. Personally, I follow this standard for every application I receive:

- Income of at least 3 times the monthly rent (verified through the employer)
- Credit score of 580+
- Rental verification with past landlords (no outstanding balances, no late payments, and the property left in acceptable condition)
- No history of collections, evictions, or criminal offenses
- No overdue debt (except medical debt)

This process has helped me place quality tenants over the years. Does your screening process look similar? Are there additional steps you take when screening applicants, or do you take fewer steps? I’d love to hear your input!