While even the most discerning landlords have no guarantees of always picking the most ideal tenants, there are some characteristics to look for that increase the chances of a mutually beneficial experience.
Here are our top 10 qualities of ideal tenants that landlords should look for when considering rental applicants:
1. Financial Viability
As business owners, landlords should put financial considerations first. Ideal tenants should ideally earn three times their monthly rent payment per month.
2. Job Stability
In addition to sufficient income, landlords should try to get a sense if the applicant will retain their current employment for the foreseeable future. Find out how long they have worked in their current position and if you still have doubts, ask them if you can call their employer.
3. Positive Payment History
Landlords should also verify that a potential renter has a track record of paying on time with few if any late rental payments. A credit check can provide this information.
4. No Criminal Past
Tenants who engage in illegal activities are a big risk and can make being a landlord very stressful. A resident background check can yield information about their criminal history or (hopefully) lack thereof. A professional tenant screening company can assist you with this process.
5. Positive References
Landlords should ask for references from past landlords and follow up with them to verify their history. If the feedback is negative, move on to other more promising applicants.
6. Clean Eviction Record
A tenant who has been evicted in the past could be an eviction risk in the future. While people can change, landlords should check this area carefully. A tenant screening company can assist you with this important check.
7. Good Communication
Positive, effective communication is key to every successful relationship. Ideal tenants who are good communicators are likely to be easier to work with than those who are not.
8. Neat and Organized
Look for signs that the applicant is organized and on top of things. If they seem scattered and/or have an unkempt appearance, this could indicate that they will not properly clean and maintain your property.
9. Conscientious
While this quality is harder to quantify and determine from just a couple of meetings, look for signs that the candidate will be thoughtful and considerate while staying at your property. Timeliness, politeness and respect are some of the signs that indicate they will be conscientious with you, your property and other ideal tenants.
10. Not High-Maintenance
While you want good communication from ideal tenants, you don’t want a tenant that communicates “too much.” An applicant who is overly talkative and complains a lot just might turn into a high maintenance tenant. Watch for signs in applicants’ personalities and histories that might indicate they will be difficult to work with. The ideal tenant is at least somewhat self-sufficient.
Ideal tenants have certain qualities and characteristics in common. Look for these 10 tenant attributes to help you screen applicants and find the very best renters. A professional tenant screener can assist with many of the areas on this list.
Sources:
Disclaimer: The information on this website does not constitute legal advice and is governed by our Terms of Use. We make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to this website and its associated sites.
