Kathy A. Torline-Nordstrom

6 tips for screening tenants

December 6th, 2012 by Kathy Torline

Tenant Screening

One of the most important keys to owning rental properties in Colorado Springs (or in any city), is coming up with the criteria for screening potential tenants.  Here’s 6 tips for screening tenants:

1. Can they prove who they say they are?    Do they have a picture I.D. you can make a copy of?
2. Do they have enough income?   How much income do you want vs. the rent?
3. Do they have job stability?  How long have they worked at their current position?  Can you verify their employment?  Can you verify their source of income?
4. How is their credit? What is the minimum credit score you require?  Does their credit report show that they typically pay on time?
5. Can they provide references from previous landlords? Have they ever been evicted?  Do they pay on time?  Did they leave the property in good shape?  (When I call to check with their previous landlord, I also check public records to make sure the person I’m calling actually owns the property.)
6. Do they have a criminal background?  What is your policy about renting to tenants with a criminal background?  Will you rent to people who have been convicted felons?

Comprehensive tenant screening results in a happy landlord

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To find out more information about Colorado Springs, Call ……
Kathy (719-287-1049)  or email [email protected]

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