When It Comes To Tenant Screening, Savvy Property Managers Know The Rules
January 21st, 2010 by admin
When it comes to managing your most precious assets, experienced property investors know that choosing the best tenant is more of an art and not based on any real science.
When you’re dealing with a research lab, it’s called science.But when you add other people of all backgrounds to the equation, it’s time to pull out the old canvas and paint brush.
If you’re new to the residential investment property business, tenant screening can be one of the most confusing areas of operating rental property. Property investors want to select the most qualified applicant, someone who will pay the rent on time (and in full) and who will take care of the rental property.
Yet, at the same time you must make sure that you abide by all the fair housing laws.Savvy property investors determine their selection criteria in advance before ever trying to rent out a vacant unit.
Without the proper guidelines in place, you will have no choice but to rely on your gut instincts when choosing the best tenant. One of the biggest mistakes inexperienced property investors make is to let their own personal opinions and biases guide the decision.
First, you should always inform prospective tenants that your company abides by all fair housing laws when making a placement decsion. It’s probably best to include a statement of this type on all your rental applications. For example, your rental policy might state, “Our company rental guidelines are in compliance with all federal, state and local fair housing laws.”
If you’re new to the investment rental property business, you may not be aware of all the fair housing laws. Be sure to consult your state’s fair housing office to determine those guidelines that your company must follow.
Beyond fair housing laws, it is important to make sure you establish criteria that is concrete by which to judge all potential applicants. For exmaple, most property managers require valid identification. {You may require the applicant to present a photo ID with their application so that you can make a copy of it}. Property investors require the applicant to present a photo ID with their application.
This requirement is a good idea because you may need to determine who’s occupying the rental unit. If someone co-signs the application, it is also a good
It’s a good idea to obtain a valid ID from them to.
Always remember that when you deal with people there will be stumbling blocks along the way, but nothing you can’t overcome. Good luck.
