Property Managers believe Tenant screening is an important topic for Hayward landlords, and a sensitive one. When you’re looking for a tenant to occupy your rental property, you want the best possible tenant. You’re looking for someone to respect and take care of your property. You also want someone who will let you know immediately when issues occur or maintenance is needed.
Fairness and Consistency in Tenant Screening
While you’re looking for the perfect tenant, you also have to make sure that you’re giving everyone who is interested an equal opportunity to become your tenant. Fair housing guidelines require you to look at all applications consistently. That’s why it’s so important to have written guidelines that are clear and concise.
Rental Qualification Guidelines and Criteria
Make sure everyone who applies for your property understands your guidelines and what you’re looking for in a tenant. Be clear about whether you allow pets and smoking in the property. Provide standards on the required gross income for the household. All these issues are important, and you must be straightforward with people. You don’t want to waste your time or theirs when people are looking for a home. When you have guidelines in place, you won’t have underqualified people applying for the property.
Establish Expectations with Potential Tenants
Be clear with your application requirements and qualifications. It’s also important to be clear with what comes with your property. Tell prospective tenants about the appliances and utilities that are included. Discuss what the owner takes care of and what the tenant is responsible for maintaining.
If you need help with tenant screening, please don’t hesitate to contact us at The HLW Group. We would be happy to tell you more.