Tenant screening is a crucial step in property management. Evaluating potential renters correctly can save you trouble later on. A key part of this process is asking for landlord references.
Getting a reference from a previous landlord helps gauge what kind of tenant someone is. One study found that most landlords focus on public records and credit reports. Around 37% always perform criminal background checks, but only a few have rental payment history in these systems.
You'll need to ask for a reference from their previous landlord to get a more complete picture of a potential tenant.
Tenant Reliability and Screening
Landlord references are super important in tenant screening. They show how reliable a tenant is with rent and lease terms. Plus, they give insights into their behavior and property treatment.
You might learn about noise levels and neighbor relations. You'll also see how well they followed the lease agreement.
For instance, a reference could reveal their maintenance and property care habits. This suggests they'd do the same for you.
Check the Reliability
You'll need to check the reference's authenticity. Make sure the contact details match the landlord's public records, and maybe take a look at past lease agreements. It's a good idea to chat with the previous landlord to confirm.
The devil's in the details, so compare the tenant's rental history with what the landlord says.
Red Flags
If you're trying to gauge tenant suitability through landlord references, watch out for red flags. Payment issues, such as late or partial payments and frequent excuses, are a big sign of trouble.
Keep an eye out for lease violations, too, like unauthorized pets. And don't ignore any mention of significant property damage. While sometimes there's a reasonable explanation, it's best to take these red flags seriously.
Things to Look For
There are also positive signs to look for in a landlord reference. For instance, if past landlords say the tenant paid rent on time, that's a great sign. Also, look for references showing good property maintenance, as poor upkeep can cost you big in repairs.
Keep an eye out for positive interactions between the tenant and their landlord, as well as with old neighbors. These things suggest a responsible and cooperative tenant.
Landlord References are Just One Step
Sure, you'll need Landlord References as part of a bigger screening process. This includes credit checks, criminal background checks, and income verification. Compare the results from these channels with the Landlord References.
Keep in mind that landlord references are just one part of making an informed decision. If it doesn't match up with other information you've gathered, don't be afraid to discount it. But do so with caution.
Quality Tenant Screening With Landlord References
By using landlord references in tenant screening, you can learn a lot about potential tenants. They help reveal blind spots not covered by credit reports and public records. This way, you make better decisions on renters, leading to stable and reliable income from high-quality tenants.
Finding the right tenants can be challenging work, so it often makes sense to outsource this responsibility to a tenant management company. Savannah Property Management has over three decades of experience in helping landlords, and we can help you find the perfect tenants.
Contact us today and let us know how we can help.