If you use the "Search BiggerPockets" box at the top of the page, you will be able to quickly find this topic in previous discussions that will answer your question.... just type "red flags".Also, most basic landlording books will have a tenant screening chapter which will outline red flags.

You will also want to put in writing and have tenants sign upon receiving it a document that outlines the house rules and use of common areas.

I do have a thorough animal application/agreement that outlines the rules.  

@David Faulkner and @Michael Swan you have both outlined your end games so I thought I would share mine.  

At least they are letting you know they are breaking the lease and who knows, their situation could change in the coming months and they may end up staying longer.For the future, add an "Early Lease Termination Fee" clause to their lease which outlines the fee they have to pay to get out of their lease early.

Simple stuff.The other option is Johnny maintains his own dwelling and stays no more than 7 days as outlined in clause 123.4 of the lease agreement we each signed.If I haven’t heard back by ____(2 days from now I will assume you’ve chosen option 2 and that Johnny will be gone by ____ (3 days from now) and will confirm this with an inspection at that time.Be well,Your name”

To briefly outline, he advocates minimizing home equity because it's:1.

It could be a simple contract that outlines what each person brings to the table (the homeowners agree to the future sale of the property and all sides agree on the allocation of the sales proceeds).

For instance "email is preferred for non-emergency situations and for emergencies call me at ______"- In the letter outline the different ways you collect rent.

State-to-state differences are nicely outlined on solarpowerrocks.com now at https://www.solarreviews.com/s...