The Successful Landlord Blog

One of our rentals recently became vacant and we’re in the process of doing landscaping, painting and advertising. The advertising part right now is limited to a “For Rent” sign in the front yard which seems to attract “tire-kickers” of the worst kind.

Some of these people’s communication skills leave a lot to be desired and so, without further ado, here are some suggestions for tenants when looking for a place to rent:

DO NOT:

• Use your worst English when calling to inquire.
• Tell your 7-year old to call to inquire.
• Act clueless when I call you back to give you information.
• Let me hear a ringback tone when I call to give you information.
• Ask me how much I want to SELL the place for.
• Ask me how many properties I own.
• Ask to set up a showing appointment…and then not show up.
• DO NOT expect to house 9 children in a 3-bed 2-bath home.

DO:

• Be sure your income  exceeds your expenses by an acceptable margin.
• Be able to use math to calculate the move-in amount on your own.
• Be aware of what your credit/criminal background report contains.
• Be sure your employer/ex-landlord/references are reachable.
• Be able to write legibly on your rental application.
• Be able to follow instructions on your rental application.
• Be sure your  car at least looks clean and reliable.