Every landlord out there wants one thing: quality tenants. When there are less-than-reputable tenants in your building, it can lead to a lot of issues that can cut into the long-term profitability of your building. And that defeats the purpose entirely.
That is why tenant screening is so important for landlords everywhere. Being able to verify the history of your tenants can save you the hassle of having disreputable tenants causing problems in your building.
These are just a few tips to help you get the right tenants for your building.
Check Out Social Media Profiles
This is one of the easiest ways to get a better idea about a tenant. If you can find your applicants on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin, you should take some time to scroll through their accounts. The thing to look for is any references to committing crimes, being incarcerated, or perhaps any gang affiliations.
People often don’t think before posting on social media and this could provide a useful warning sign that you should avoid them entirely.
Contact Two Previous Landlords
Unfortunately, calling just the current landlord might not be the most helpful of information. If they are particularly bad tenants — chronically late on payments, generating complaints, or trashing the place — their current landlord is incentivized to get them out of there.
This is why calling the landlord before that can help to give you the whole picture. If tenants were a problem, the previous landlord will likely be more honest about how they were as tenants.
Adult Background Checks
Any adult that is applying should be checked thoroughly. There is just too much on the line for landlords to risk it. Performing a background check will alert you to any criminal history as well as anything that might jump out as a red flag.
Protecting your property and yourself is part of your rights as a property owner. Make certain that you are not bringing in more trouble than the tenant is worth.