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Did you know that 44.1 million American households are renters? With this many people looking to rent homes, it is important to ensure that your Saratoga Springs rental properties are taken care of by the most responsible tenants.
Completing a complete rental history check is one of the best ways to make sure that your properties are respected and cared for. Additionally, taking your time with the rental application process can help you avoid the tricky eviction process. Here's what you need to know about checking rental history and ensuring a smooth tenant screening process.
Gather Applicant Information
You will want to begin by requesting a completed rental application from each prospective tenant. Here, you'll find their personal information, employment details, and previous rental addresses. You'll also want to obtain written consent for background and credit checks, as this demonstrates the applicant's willingness to be transparent.
Verify Employment and Income
Skipping employment and income verification is one of the most common tenant screening mistakes. Make sure you contact the applicant's current employer to confirm their employment status and income. This step is important as it is essential to make sure your tenant can afford their rent each month.
Run a Credit Check
When completing a rental history check, you'll want to utilize a reputable credit reporting agency to run a credit check on the applicant. Take a look at their credit score and payment history to gauge their financial responsibility. Most of the time, a credit score of 650 or higher shows a strong sense of responsibility.
Conduct a Criminal Background Check
Conducting a tenant background check involves searching county, state, and federal criminal records to identify any potential red flags. You'll also want to check sex offender registries. Although a criminal record doesn't always automatically disqualify an applicant, it is important information to consider when making your final decision.
Contact Previous Landlords
Reach out to the applicant's previous landlords to verify rental dates and payment history. Talk to them about how the tenant cared for their property and whether or not they complied with the lease terms. Gathering this firsthand knowledge from past landlords can provide important information about the applicant's behavior as a tenant.
Utilize Local Resources
Take advantage of local resources like the Saratoga County Clerk's Office for public records related to the applicant. Consider using the online records application for property-related searches, which can reveal any past issues with evictions or property disputes.
Make an Informed Decision After Your Rental History Check
Once you've successfully completed your rental history check, it's time to get your new tenants settled into their new home! The tenant screening process is just one thing that Veno Properties can assist you with. Whether you need full service property management, assistance with tenant placement, or real estate services, our team is here for you!
Our team is ready to help you take the next steps in managing your property! To learn more about our Saratoga Springs property management services, contact us at any time.
