The sad truth is that these days, good rentals are hard to come by. One of the reasons for this is due to inadequate tenant screening. People rent properties out to those who weren’t properly screened and once the lease is up, the landlord discovers that the property was destroyed. In many cases, it costs more than the security deposit to repair the damages forcing landlords to raise security deposits and rental rates.
It is crucial that before allowing a tenant to occupy your rental, that you take the extra time to check their references. Call past landlords to find out if they were good tenants. Ask questions like, was the entire security deposit returned? If not, find out why. Criminal background checks are also incredibly important. The most likeable people could have a past that is only uncovered with a little research on your part.
When property management companies or landlords place ads in the paper for move in ready rentals with no credit or background checks, they risk losing credibility with other potential applicants. Some people prefer to live in neighborhoods or apartment complexes where neighbors are screened. It makes them feel safer in their own homes.
Reasons why tenant screening is important:
Less risk of substantial property damages
Reduce the risk of tenants without steady income
It insures that your properties are occupied by responsible tenants
Property managers and landlords don’t like when rentals sit vacant but renting to someone without performing proper tenant screening could result in far worse problems than late rent.
Real Property Management’s professional services include on-going communication, comprehensive marketing and advertising, thorough tenant screening and selection, full-service leasing, timely rent collection, regular inspections, cost-effective and reliable maintenance, strict and compliant evictions, and comprehensive accounting.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.