The first step in filling your Alaskan rental is finding a responsible tenant. Screening tenants for “red flags” begins with the first point of contact. This is usually over the phone or via email in response to an ad seen about the property. The screening process should continue until the lease is signed, and they are completely moved in.
Here are some of the most common “red flags” that may cause any landlord to think twice:
- First things first, if they show up late for an appointment without notification, this is a major red flag.
- If they talk negatively of previous landlords.
- Do they nitpick about everything on the property? Tenants who are too picky about every minor thing are definitely red flags.
- If they present themselves as unorganized or sloppy.
- If they call to inquire about the property “for a friend.” Possible red flag. It may be nothing, but you should be cautious.
- Are they respectful and have manners to carry on a normal conversation?
- Do they have goals?
- If they lie on any portion of the application, major red flag.
- If this is their first home away from home. You don’t want your place to become party central. Get references, and verify everything.
In the end it is your property, and as long as you follow the local landlord/tenant laws and fair housing laws, you can decide to accept or reject tenants based on pre-established criteria. If you are interested in Real Property Management taking care of your property, contact us today!