Make them fill out an application before scheduling a showing. If they pay, they will not flake.
Then text them the morning of and only show up if they text you back that they're coming.
The Maui market is way different from yours, but what I do is schedule my first showing, turn it into a 30 minute open house and jet. The glut of people really shakes out who's serious. I had five people show up last time, rented it the next day.
Other red flags that indicate you should not show to prospective tenant:
- trying to negotiate rent upfront
- saying, "wow that's a lot" or "that's expensive"
- not listening
- their needs don't fit your property, i.e. they have a dog and the apartment has no yard
- being rude
- not having a car
- standing you up for an appointment already
- having way too many people for the occupancy of the unit
- wanting to sublease
- wanting to trade landscaping/maintenance for rent
- pointing out every little flaw at the showing, yeah you want that tenant
Don't be afraid to be firm. Remember, life is a continuous interview process, and people are always trying to see what they can get away with.
I always tell prospective tenants as well that when they can move in is a big factor in the decision, i.e. I'm more likely to rent to a qualified applicant willing to move in immediately versus someone who needs to give 30 days notice. You have to spell it out to them that they might need to pay double rent for a few days or weeks to get the apartment.
I'm always amazed how people are so self-absorbed, they want to tell you their whole life story, accommodate their schedules and measure rooms to fit their furniture, but don't know what really matters to landlords which is #1 paying on time and #2 not being a hassle.
Good luck and don't take any crap!