When you are going through the tenant screening process, you need to know whether a potential tenant is a good fit for your property. References can help you determine whether a tenant is reliable, and if they are not, you can find out why. A surprising number of prospective tenants may have a criminal history that could threaten the safety and well-being of the other residents. If you want to avoid conflicts later on, it’s important to do your due diligence during the tenant screening process. Credit checks and background checks are helpful, but referrals allow you to speak with someone who has worked with the tenant before. This will help you weed out irresponsible tenants that only look good on paper.
Why References Matter During the Tenant Screening Process
Verifying Tenant Information
A tenant might have a great credit score and proof of stable employment, but this doesn’t guarantee that they’re reliable. Some people may make every effort to portray a positive image of themselves despite a history of violent or inappropriate behavior. This can involve everything from lying to outright fraud. Asking for references during the tenant screening process can help you verify the information provided to you. Past landlords and employers are a great place to start if you want to get an accurate picture of someone’s character. Do they show up to work on time? Do they get along with their co-workers? Did they pay rent on time in the past? Personal references can be effective as well, but be sure to ask for relevant examples rather than easy yes or no questions. For instance, ask them to describe a conflict and how the tenant resolved it.
Avoiding Potential Problems
If a tenant isn’t on the up-and-up, there’s a good chance that they’re going to cause problems eventually. An irresponsible tenant might disrupt other tenants by hosting loud parties, or they could simply fail to pay their rent, which could also lead to an eviction. A variety of legal complications may also occur as a result of hiring a reckless tenant. You want to be sure to avoid criminals who might choose to sell drugs on your property or commit other illegal acts, for example. Unfortunately, one individual can permanently alter your rental property’s reputation. You can learn more about a person and their values when you speak to someone who knows them personally. Asking for suitable references during the tenant screening process is easy and it will save you plenty of headaches later.
Finding Quality Tenants That Are a Good Match
As a landlord, you want to find trustworthy tenants who are serious about their obligations. You also want to ensure that you attain tenants that agree to your policies. A dog lover who owns three pets might not be a good choice if you want to maintain a pet-free property. Contacting references is an important way to learn about someone’s qualities and preferences. However, references can also help you to better understand someone’s history. Perhaps a tenant was evicted from a previous rental property, but they turned their life around and are seeking a fresh start. Speaking to someone who can touch on these kinds of situations can provide you with clarity.
How All County Denver South Can Help
If you need a property management company in Denver, look no further! All County Denver South Property Management is here to help property owners have confidence in the quality of their tenants and the security of their property through knowledgeable and trustworthy property management services. From managing tenant relationships to lease enforcement, we look forward to working with you to see how your investment can be a long-term, stress-free asset. For a complimentary quote, or to learn more about the tenant screening process, call us at (720) 664-4550.