How to Find (And Keep) Good Tenants
- Niko Apostal
- 08/21/25
Our team uses a collaborative approach to add perspective and value in real estate transactions. We focus on the full scope and implications of our clients’ personal situation by asking deeper questions, leveraging generations of experience, and utilizing a vast network of additional resources.
1. Have potential tenants fill out and sign a Rental Application.
Make sure to include:
-Prior Rental History
-An Agreement to Run a Credit Check
-Work History
-Vehicle Info
-References
-Pay Stubs
-Driver's Licenses
-Potentially: Tax Return/Financial Statement (helps you calculate rent-to-income ratio)
2. Consider charging an application processing fee to not only cover the cost of the credit check, but also weed out less committed prospects.
3. Take the time to meet possible renters in person (or have a trusted property manager do it).
Don't let emotions blind you from verifying the information you need to know.
Make sure to call references, verify employment and rental history, and keep notes!
On the other hand, credit reports don't tell the whole story: try to get a sense of who your tenant is and use the report to guide your decision of whether they can be consistent.
4. Set up a great Lease Agreement, which outlines rules for both landlords and tenants.
There's lots to talk about here, so if you want more info about that, contact us.
5. Once you find the right tenant, have them sign the lease agreement and collect deposits.
Try to set up an appointment so they can sign and ask questions in person.
If you reject an application, make sure to notify the person and explain the reason.
Follow up with an application denial letter that you also keep for your records.
6. Do an inspection before their move in to make sure the space is ready to go (you never know!)
7. Consider getting a landlord insurance policy and encourage them to get renter's insurance.
I'll admit it sounds like a lot, but the extra effort up front is what prevents surprises later.
If you or someone you know is ready to start the tenant search,
I'm just a call away!