Tenant Screening Secrets: Top 9 Things Property Managers Don’t Tell You
When it comes to finding a place to live, navigating the rental market can be daunting. One crucial aspect often shrouded in mystery is the tenant screening process. Property managers hold valuable information that they might not readily disclose to prospective tenants. Here are nine secrets about tenant screening that property managers may not reveal upfront:
1. Credit Score Weightage
Property managers often consider credit scores as a primary determinant for tenant approval. However, what they don’t always reveal is the specific credit score threshold they use. While some may accept lower scores with additional security deposits or cosigners, others have strict cutoffs. Understanding the credit score threshold can help applicants assess their chances accurately.
2. Prioritize Stability Over High Income
While a high income is undoubtedly beneficial, stability often carries more weight in tenant screening. Property managers look for consistent employment history and rental references to gauge a tenant’s reliability. Applicants with a steady income and a history of long-term rentals are more likely to pass screening, even if their income isn’t exceptionally high.
3. Importance of Rental History
Your past rental history speaks volumes about your reliability as a tenant. Property managers scrutinize rental references to assess payment punctuality, property upkeep, and lease compliance. They may not explicitly emphasize the significance of a spotless rental record, but any red flags in your history can significantly impact your application’s success.
4. Criminal Background Checks
Many property managers conduct criminal background checks as part of their screening process. However, they may not disclose the specific offenses that could disqualify an applicant. While minor infractions might not pose a problem, serious criminal convictions could result in automatic rejection. Understanding the types of offenses that property managers consider unacceptable can help applicants prepare accordingly.
5. Impact of Evictions
Evictions can severely hinder your chances of securing a rental property, yet property managers may not elaborate on their significance. Even if an eviction occurred years ago, it could still raise concerns about your ability to fulfill lease obligations. Some property managers have strict policies against renting to individuals with past evictions, regardless of their current circumstances.
6. Pet Policies
While some properties are advertised as pet-friendly, property managers may impose restrictions or additional fees that they don’t readily disclose. They might have breed or size limitations, require pet deposits, or charge monthly pet rent. Understanding the full extent of the pet policies can prevent surprises and ensure a smooth transition for both tenants and their furry companions.
7. Subtle Discrimination
Despite fair housing laws, subtle forms of discrimination can still occur during the tenant screening process. Property managers may not explicitly reveal biases based on factors like race, ethnicity, or familial status. However, applicants should be aware of their rights and report any discriminatory practices they encounter during the application process.
8. Screening Fees
Property managers often charge non-refundable screening fees to cover the cost of background and credit checks. While these fees are standard practice, they can vary in amount and may not always be disclosed upfront. Applicants should inquire about the screening fee and understand the payment terms before proceeding with the application process.
9. Flexibility in Screening Criteria
While property managers adhere to certain screening criteria, they may exercise flexibility based on individual circumstances. Applicants with borderline credit scores or minor blemishes in their rental history may still have a chance if they can provide additional documentation or references. Building a rapport with the property manager and demonstrating responsibility can sometimes sway their decision in your favor.
Understanding these tenant screening secrets empowers prospective tenants to navigate the rental market more effectively. By being informed and proactive, applicants can increase their chances of securing their desired rental property while avoiding potential pitfalls in the screening process.
