Do you have more than a couple of tenants? Are you struggling to stay up with your tenant screenings to do them properly?
If so, then it may be time to use a tenant screening service. But what does that entail? What questions should you ask during a tenant screening?
Keep reading to learn more.
What Is Your Monthly Income?
As part of the pre-screening process, you want to ask this question. You want to make sure the tenant's income is at least three times the rent price each month so that they can afford to live there.
If they tell you a number that is too low, it may be best to take them off the list so that you don't risk them not paying or missing rent.
What Is Your Credit Score?
In addition, to knowing their monthly income, you may also want to know their credit score so you know how well they manage their money.
If their credit score is low, they may not be the best at managing money and may also not be able to afford the rent. In that case, you may want to tell them it would be best for them to look elsewhere.
Do You Have Pets?
If you allow pets in your apartments, this is not that important of a question unless you restrict the type of breed or the size of the pet.
However, if you do not allow pets, this is a vital question to ask. If a potential tenant says that they do, you can automatically eliminate them from the application process.
What Is Your Eviction History?
Knowing the eviction history of your potential tenants can save you a headache down the road.
You don't want to have a tenant that has a history of eviction as that can mean they often fall behind on their rent. It is best to know this so that you can weigh your options as well.
You may even ask them what the reasoning was if everything else seems to be in place as it may have been a problem in the past. It is best to ask questions regarding this so you have all the answers you need to make the right decision.
Why Are You Moving?
This question may not seem that relevant, but it is!
Most likely, a tenant is moving because they have a new job or are starting school in the area or something of the sort. However, someone may have been evicted from a previous property and needs a new place.
If that's the case, you want to know so that you can remove them from the application pool.
Work With a Tenant Screening Service
Working with a tenant screening service can help you keep track of your tenants and ensure that you are asking the right questions to each applicant. There are also so many other benefits of a service!
If you are ready to work with a tenant screening service, you can contact us at the Home River Group to help you!
