So, the first question they usually ask a PMC is about fees - instead of asking about services and HOW those services are executed.EXAMPLE: PMC states they will handle tenant screening – what does that specifically mean?

If you choose to accept it, make them apply and pass your screening, add them to the lease, and charge extra rent to make it worth your trouble.

I am curious if there are any pre made criteria lists out there or if there are any “must haves” for tenant screening. 

Tenant screening is, in my opinion, the most important step in maintaining both your property and your sanity. 

@Stephen J Davis It looks like the issues you raised are with your tenants and tenant screening. 

When screening your job is to decide why you should declined them...... and this guys has LOTS of those.PASS

If you're not working with a local agent to help you screen tenants...I would say the best way to get as many eyes on the property is create marketing material - add to local FB groups and host 2 consecutive open house weekends showing a model unit and amenities.If you're close to any University Campuses - I would also suggest to partner with the university for housing opportunities for upperclass students.Good luck with filling those up!

I will make sure that all topics are covered and are part of our initial screening process for future investments.Thank you again for the time and thought you put into our response.

All the other criteria, at least based on their pre-screening responses, look passable.

That said, long-term the appreciation you get in the Puget Sound region is superior to many other markets, so assuming you find an excellent property management company that is able to screen tenants and only put in very well qualified, vetted occupants and you experience limited issues over the holding period, you'd likely come out ahead retaining the Mill Creek property if your financially able to do so and still buy wherever you are headed out of state.