This process can be one of the most important components of your real estate investment. If you chose the right tenant, things will go smoothly and rent will be paid on time with few issues. If you rush into things and don’t do your due diligence, you’ll have a nightmare on your hands, and one that may turn into a D&D (destroy and don’t pay).
The key here is to TAKE YOUR TIME. Do not take the first tenant who shows up, even if they offer to pay 6 months in advance. Ask lots of questions, do your research and follow your gut instinct. Even if the unit sits empty for an extra month because a great tenant hasn’t shown up, don’t worry – they’re out there, they just haven’t found you yet.
➡️Do’s⬅️
✨ Follow up with employment references – Google the company and call the number provided online, not the number the prospective tenant provided. You’d be surprised how many people will provide their mom’s cell number as their employer.
✨ Check the FULL credit report – not just the score. Also, look through the report for consistent formatting and watch for signs that it may have been pasted together.
✨ Ask for the contact information for the previous landlord – the current one may paint a rosy picture of the perfect tenant JUST to get rid of that tenant. The previous landlord doesn’t have any skin in the game so is more likely to tell you the truth and be upfront about issues.
✨ Know your rights and responsibilities as a landlord. It’s MUCH MUCH more than just collecting checks every month. KNOWLEDGE IS ABSOLUTELY POWER in this situation.
➡️Don’ts⬅️
✨EVER discriminate based on ANYTHING (race, age, religion, sexual orientation, etc ). Not only is this unethical, unkind and unwise but it can land you in trouble and in front of the Human Rights Commission.
✨Believe the ‘dog ate my homework excuse. Ask for and only accept proper documentation – paystubs, employment references, credit reports. Don’t take anyone’s word for it – always ask for official documents.
✨Rush into the process just because you don’t want the unit empty. Wait until you have a great tenant, even if this means the unit stays empty for a month, or more.
✨Think that you’re "higher and mightier" than the tenant. You need the tenant just as much as they need you (likely more) and treating them as equal is going to create and maintain a respectful relationship that will pay dividends moving forward.
Follow these simple tips and you’ll be off to a great start! For more detailed information on the tenant selection process, never hesitate to reach out. Happy renting!!😊
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