I think the what we call a "screening failure".Don't buy in war zones, don't rent to violent criminals. 

Here in illinois the landlord laws don't work as fast - wheels of justice definitely move slowly.And if you can afford to take that tack, I don't see anything wrong with it.But I'm trying to maximize my returns.

This is the one we used:http://www.cbacredit.com/Index.aspxI just ordered their credit/eviction/criminal reports online, which was cheaper - after they came to inspect where I kept tenant files, etc.  

You don't want someone calling your name in a civil or criminal suit as the person who knew about the problem, had the power to take action, but chose not to. 

You generally want to make sure he passes credit, capacity and criminal - that he can afford both places and service all of his other debt. 

The rent price is $____________, we require income of 3 times the rent, no smoking, no dogs, we do extensive background checks including criminal, eviction and credit, and you must have great landlord references who are not relatives and we thoroughly check everything.  

DishwasherHuge fenced backyardOutdoor storage shedWasher/DryerConvenient online rent paymentsOff-street parkingRental requirements:Credit Check (students may need qualified parent co-signer)Verified income of 3x the monthly rentPositive reference from previous landlordsClean criminal and rental historyEach tenant over 18 must complete an online application with credit and background check ($40 fee)Maximum occupancy: 5 peoplePet Policy:All pets must be pre-approved prior to moving in, will consider both cats and dogs. $200 pet security fee; $50 for second pet.

They offered me 3 x, but in California, 2x is the max I can take.Here are the problems that I see off the top of my head:I have no way to check any criminal history or credit w/o a ss#.

During the term of the lease (the initial term of the lease or any extension term), the owner may only terminate the tenancy because of: (1) Serious or repeated violation of the lease; (2) Violation of Federal, State, or local law that imposes obligations on the tenant in connection with the occupancy or use of the unit and the premises; (3) Criminal activity or alcohol abuse (as provided in paragraph c); or (4) Other good cause (as provided in paragraph d).

But the $15 is cheap enough that I don't usually charge an applicant, I figure it's just part of the turnover cost.Best Deal - Complete TransUnion Credit, Eviction and Criminal Combo ......................$24.95 per applicant 1.