So there's a bit of a misconception out there for landlords, especially, private landlords who aren't incorporated that it is difficult to do a proper tenant screen. I've heard not just from my friends in the industry but from countless customers things like: "I'm not allowed to get credit reports", "criminal data is only available to PIs and police", and "it's too expensive". I must say I can debunk all those myths in about 30 seconds!
Simple fact is, all these reports are available TODAY to landlords, as well as property managers.
- Credit Reports
- Criminal Reports (nationwide, state, or county)
- Eviction Reports
- Judgments, Liens, Bankruptcy Reports
- many more..
The cost is often completely paid for in a $25-35 application fee which virtually all states allow for. To do a good background check you would do at minimum Credit and Criminal, and expect to pay about $17.00 for this. A $25 application fee covers your cost plus some.
Another thing I've heard is "it's too hard to get setup", or "it requires a site inspection". False, and True; however, the site inspection can be easier than you may think. I'm not sure how all other companies do it, but Rentec Direct provides a single page form you can have a neighbor or friend fill out on your behalf which replaces the typical expensive and long wait a typical site inspection carries. There's no costs, and the entire application/setup process takes no longer than an hour. Literally it's not unreasonable to get setup and operational the same day ordering credit & criminal reports just a few hours later.
I think I just debunked the myths. Rentec Direct isn't the only tenant screening outfit out there; however, it's the only one I have access to, so I created a video using our system on just how quick and easy it is to order background reports. Better quality tenants = better quality income. Better quality tenants = fewer legal expenses. Better quality tenants = better property care. Better quality tenants = Huge Benefit!
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Nathan is a member of Rentec Direct who provides property management software, tenant ach payment processing, and Rentec Direct's tenant credit, criminal, and eviction screening.
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