To me, as long as you are getting their FICO score (Not the Vantage score b/s that they are promoting), criminal and eviction history, you are pretty much set.

Having strong tenant screening practices in place helps - my manager charges $40 per credit check and doesn't make much off it, but checks court records, criminal records, credit, and so on.

@Isaac ChunEasy - one him through truthfinder.com, if there is anything remotely criminal - it will find it.

if you can think it up in your head a tenant will do it.. from funny to sad to criminal behavior..

If you must raise price,  communicate early and clearly so the surprise is minimized,  and consider offering refunds on any applications fees if those applicants decline to proceed.5)  make darn, darn sure you don't discriminate on all the usual attributes,  as well as source of income,  and criminal history.  

I’ve gotten mixed reviews on the civil/criminal implications involved with this deal gone wrong as well as who professionally is responsible.

It is also easier to get investors since you can get anchors or nationals as your tenants.When screen tenants, you're analyzing their financials instead of a criminal background check. 

I am not a fear monger but what happens if there is a cyber attack, or EMP that prevents us from accessing that money. 

Which makes it even more twisted since in some places the landlord can be held liable if there is criminal activity associated with their property and they do not take proactive steps to prevent it.If the laws are as you describe, why isn't every bloody business owner with a retail location not "subject to arrest" for having audio/video surveillance in their stores? 

Sometimes I take on tenant with eviction and they are the best - no hassle, pay on time Tenants.Sometimes you get a nurse with great income, adult, mature, talking good - she's not paying on time every month or get a boyfriend who is criminal and you've got much more trouble than with couple kids.I'm really interested in people experiences and don't want them to stop this discussion because of constant mention of Fair Housing....geeeez