How to Screen a Tenant

When locating a prospective tenant use great caution in screening out the problem tenants and troublemakers from quality tenants.
Search for tenants that pay their bills on time, follow the rules, and are hassle free for the neighbors and especially the property manager.
Be sure your rental application asks for the following information:
References: Should include references from landlords or property managers for a minimum of the past 3 years.
Income: A tenants income should be three times or more of the monthly rent. Roommates should qualify separately. The reasoning is if one occupant should move out the remaining tenant can afford the rent solely on their own.
Evictions: Permit no evictions, no matter the situation.
Criminal Records: Allow no tenant or occupant with a criminal record consisting of a felony drug conviction, violence of any kind, or sexual misconduct on any level to live at your property. Failure to check every tenants criminal record could result in the occurrence of criminal activity at the property and mean any illegal activity could end up as your responsibility and a future lawsuit.
Credit Report: A credit report should be clean of collections, judgments and late payments. With today foreclosures, some re-evaluation in this area may be necessary. But, be cautious.
Verification: Be positive of each person living at your property. Get a photo ID of each person 18 years and older. Know the names and ages of each minor person under the age of 18.
Review your Rules: Review your policy for no animals, no smoking, etc. Making sure the prospective tenants are clearly aware of and understood the expected behavior when renting your property.
Date and sign each page of the application. Do your homework, screen each occupant and the chances of locating a great tenant will be in your favor.

For additional information on this and other renting articles, please visit our web site at http://www.mrpmrentals.com/

Mountain Ridge Property Management
Your Boise Rental Home Resource