When they realize that they will loose the roof over their head the rent suddenly moves ahead of other bills such as car, groceries, cell phone, weed, beer, cigarettes, lottery, new purse etc.....The ones that really can't come up with the money, well tough.

Ask if they currently have the cash for security deposit and first month's rent.Ask why they're moving and when they plan to move.Ask if they are indoor smokers, outdoor smokers, or nonsmokers.Ask if they have pets.Ask if they have ever been evicted or late on rent.Ask if they've ever taken a landlord to court.Ask if they've ever had trouble with bedbugs.Lots of these questions can be on an application really.The following isn't exactly what to ask them, but good tips seeing this is your first rental:Typically, the longer their story to you, you'll find the more they're hiding.If a couple breaks up or roommates fight, don't let them make it your problem.

I also couldn't get tenants to put cigarette butts in the can - they would leave them on the ground next to it.  

My ozone machine comes in handy for dirty tenants , heavy smokers ,nd immigrants who cook /fry with weird ingredients .

Countless times I have heard a sob story and as I look around their home, I see liqueur bottles and packs of cigarettes.

House trashed, full of beer cans and cigarette packages.

Smokers tend to be smokers.

Hey @Tyler Flagg - there are a few forum articles on here about rehabbing houses with really bad cigarette damage.

The following is my opinion, as a CA investor:- Consider pets & smokers- Remove wording in ad for credit check.- Post on several rental outlets.- Repost on CL once a day. - Add pictures of exterior.- Be patient!

Hi All, Does anyone know if it is illegal to have a NO PETS and NO SMOKERS policy in the rental application form and the lease agreement for Florida?