Finding a great tenant isn’t just about luck—it’s about having a solid screening process in place. Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or just starting out, here are some practical steps to help you avoid costly mistakes.
1. Go Beyond the Credit Score
A high credit score looks great on paper, but it’s not the full story. Look for consistent payment history, types of debt, and red flags like recent collections or charge-offs. A moderate score with good habits may be more reliable than a high score with shaky patterns.
2. Verify Income the Right Way
Always request recent pay stubs, bank statements, or employment verification. Rule of thumb: tenants should earn at least 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent. Be cautious of inflated or altered documents—yes, that’s a thing!
3. Check Rental History Thoroughly
Speak to current and past landlords. Ask about payment behavior, lease violations, and whether they’d rent to the tenant again. Be on the lookout for vague or overly positive references—it could be a friend posing as a landlord.
4. Don’t Skip the Background Check
A criminal background check helps you understand if there are any safety risks. Be sure to follow Fair Housing laws and only consider relevant convictions (e.g., recent violent crimes or property damage).
5. Trust—but Verify—Everything
If something feels off, follow up. Inconsistent addresses, unverifiable employment, or a rushed move-in request could be signs of trouble. It’s okay to walk away if a prospect doesn’t check out.
Why Professional Screening Matters
Even with all the right steps, tenant screening can be time-consuming and nuanced. That’s where working with a professional property management team—like VMS—makes all the difference. We know what to look for, how to verify it, and how to keep everything legal and fair.
The right tenant saves you time, money, and stress. And that’s what we’re here to help with.
