And I've been "lucky" by screening my tenants effectively and generally not compromising on my screening criteria.

Go to NETWORK at the top of your screen and you can search for other investors and investment groups in your area.

I take ALL the TV shows with a HUGE grain of salt... they have some things/aspect to pay attention to.... like current designs and trends.... but its TV.

Go to NETWORK at the top of your screen and you can search for other investors and investment groups in your area.

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator.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?

Also, what are your pro tips for tenant screening from afar?

-What is your typical tenant screening/eviction process?

Critical Check Points: Tenant selection - screen and choose well; Lease Up - establish a strong rental agreement and make sure the tenant understands your expectations; First Three Months - like a probationary period, check in more often, most problem tenants reveal themselves within the first three months; Lease Violations - swift follow-up and enforcement; Regular Inspections - frequency will depend on a number of factors, including how well the tenant is fulfilling their responsibilities.

I also recommend making a list of Landlord problems (marketing, screening, unpaid rent, tenant wants to break lease early, tenant wants to add/remove roommate, unauthorized pets, etc.), develop a plan for tackling each one in accordance with the law, and then develop a written process so you're prepared.I also recommend you learn the power of leverage. 

I'm not a big fan of the advanced guest screening procedures.