My first showing

So this past weekend I had my first tenant showing. It was a very interesting experience. I closed on my first investment property about 10 days ago. I first posted a rental ad on Craigslist on Sunday, August 15. I expected my phone to just start ringing as soon as I posted the ad on Craigslist, but unfortunately, that was not the case.

I got about 1-2 calls per day from Monday-Wednesday. Wednesday I posted another ad on Craigslist. I started getting 3-4 calls per day on Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday I posted my third ad on Craiglist. I posted it very early in the morning, so my ad was one of the first people saw. On Friday, I definitely got a lot more calls, may be close to 10.

 I had a couple of people who made appointments to come in on Saturday to check out the place. Saturday when I went to the property, I also put a yard sign outside the house.

I am not sure if it was the weekend or the yard sign, but a lot more people were inquiring about the rental because of the yard sign than the ad on Craigslist though the two people who put in their applications on each of the 2-plex found the property through Craigslist.

Some of the calls stood out more than others. One particular lady called and wanted to move in right away because she became homeless and said she had a 3 month old baby. I told her that the place isn't available until Sept. 20, so I am unable to help her. Being a new landlord, it was a little uncomfortable receiving this kind of call, but I have to look at this as a business and can't let my emotions make the decision.

During the showing, couple of people were clearly "tire-kickers" and had no real interest in renting the place. They were complaining about everything and wanted me to change everything in the place from locks to appliances. Some people inquired if I could work with them on the security deposit requirement, but I gave everyone the same answer who had any special request that "I am sorry, but we have very strict rules and we apply them to everyone the same way."

To an extent, it was a very exciting and overwhelming experience. Overwhelming because I am not using any property management company. But surprisingly, it was also somewhat I expected, thanks mainly to all the members who have posted their experience on BP. For some of the strange requests, I was somewhat prepared and handled professionally. I can't thank BP enough for making my life so much easier.

FYI..I am using National Tenant Network for my tenant screening. They seem to be very helpful and answer any questions that you may have. I found out about NTN through recommendation of BP members also.

Good luck to all the members out there! :)