It sounds simple. High-quality tenants are the key to long-term financial success. Property managers are well aware that not all tenants are professional. One bad tenant can cause a ripple effect that could not only disrupt cash flow but also potentially damage your reputation and property. You should never ignore the tenant screening process, no matter how qualified a prospect may appear, in person or on paper. You can find the right person for your property by asking questions.

These are questions that property managers can use to screen tenants.

Top 10 Tenant Screening Questions

What time are you planning to move in?

The move-in date cannot be achieved if it is too close or far from the tenant who has already moved out. If your potential tenant can move in quickly, such as within a few days or one week, this may be an indication that they are serious. This should be investigated further.

Why are you moving?

This is an important question for tenant screening. People often don’t hesitate to answer it. Many times, the answer is related to wanting to live closer to work or to find a larger place. Or conversely, to move to downsize when children leave. Anything that involves disputes between landlords or neighbors is not something you want to hear. Be cautious if this is the case.

How much do you make each month?

Is the potential renter able to afford your property? It is important to know how much a potential tenant has earned. Verification such as bank statements and pay stubs is necessary. You should also run a credit check to determine if you have any outstanding debts or unpaid bills.

Are you a pet owner?

Pet owners should discuss their pets. This includes whether they are housebroken, have behavioural issues and whether any other tenants might be affected by the pet’s behaviour. This is a good opportunity to discuss any restrictions regarding the number and type of pets that are allowed. You can also end the conversation if your policy prohibits pets.

What number of people will live in this apartment?

It is important to comply with any local fire codes or bylaws regarding the number of persons allowed in an apartment. While tenants may be happy to allow five people to sleep in a one-bedroom apartment with their landlord, property professionals need to be careful. There may be laws that limit the number of people allowed in a bedroom or square meter depending on the size of your rental.

Are you allowing me to contact my previous landlord?

Reach out to past landlords if they allow it. You will get a better understanding of the character and history of the applicant by contacting both the current landlord and the previous landlord. 

This is a great way to ask questions such as:

  • Was the tenant able to pay his rent on time?
  • Did you have any complaints?
  • Did the tenant cause any damage to the property?
  • Would you rent to the tenant again?

Can you provide employment references?

It is important to ensure that there will be a sustainable, long-term tenancy. Employers and colleagues can provide references that will help you establish character patterns. You can get information from colleagues and employers about the reliability and trustworthiness of potential tenants.

Are you willing to take a background and credit check?

Your prospective renter should know that all applications are subject to a credit and background check. This is your process, and there are no exceptions. If the person calling you about the unit isn’t willing to follow your process, they are probably not a good match.

For insurance purposes, property inspections are required at least X times per annum. Do you agree with this?

Tenants should be made aware that they must inspect the property annually during their tenure. This will ensure that they are fully informed of their obligations. This also shows you are committed to maintaining the property. You should let them know that 24-hour notice is required.

Have any questions?

This is the best question to ask to ensure that your potential tenant understands and is comfortable with all terms and conditions of the rental agreement.

Your property ad is the first step in pre-screening tenants. Be sure to include information about the rental unit, as well as any pet policies. Also, make it clear that all applicants must go through tenant screening. This will help you filter out potential tenants who might not be a good fit.

Conclusion

North Bloomfield Properties has the knowledge and experience to provide prompt and professional service regarding your rental investments. We serve in many areas including Beverly, Commerce, Farmington, Auburn Property Management, and many other surrounding areas of Michigan. We tend to your needs, concerns, and expectations and pride ourselves on locating the best possible tenants for your property. 

Name: North Bloomfield Properties

Contact No: 248-366-8484

Address: 8081 Commerce Road, Commerce Township, MI 48382