Hey Lykkers! Let's talk about the most crucial moment in a landlord's journey: picking your tenant.

It's easy to get excited when someone loves your property, but the wrong choice can turn your investment dream into a full-time headache of missed payments and property damage.

Think of tenant screening not as a hurdle, but as your most powerful insurance policy. Doing it properly isn't just recommended—it's non-negotiable. Let's walk through the 6 essential checks that separate a reliable partner from a potential problem.

A credit report is more than just a number; it's a financial biography. Yes, look for a minimum credit score (often 650-680+ for a strong applicant), but you must read the story behind it. Look for patterns of responsibility. Are there recent collections, judgments, or a history of late payments? Most importantly, check for past-due debts to previous landlords, which is a major red flag.

As the tenant-screening platform RentSpree notes, "A good rule of thumb is to require the tenant's monthly income to be at least three times the monthly rent."

2. The Income & Employment Verification: The "Can They Pay?" Test

The golden rule here is the income requirement. Most experts insist that a tenant's gross monthly income should be at least 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent. Don't just take a pay stub at face value. Verify employment with a direct call to their HR department. For self-employed applicants, ask for the last two years of tax returns.

This step objectively answers the most critical question.

3. The Full Rental History: Calling Past Landlords

This is your single most predictive tool. Get contact information for their last two to three landlords. Ask specific questions: Did they pay on time? Did they maintain the property? Why did they leave? Would you rent to them again? Listen carefully to what is not said. A glowing review from a current landlord who is eager to be rid of them is a warning sign.

4. The Eviction History Search: The Ultimate Red Flag

An eviction filing is one of the strongest predictors of future risk. Use a screening service to search national eviction court records. Even if the case was dismissed or settled, it indicates a past breakdown in the landlord-tenant relationship so severe it went to court.

This check is non-negotiable for protecting your investment from costly legal proceedings.

5. The Personal Interview & Gut Check: Meeting the Human

After the data, meet the person. This is a professional interview, not a casual chat. Observe their demeanor. Do they show up on time? Are they respectful? Discuss your lease terms, policies on payments, and maintenance expectations. Gauge if they are someone you can communicate with for the next year.

This is where you assess the "soft" fit.

6. The Consistent, Documented Process: Your Legal Shield

Finally, the most important check is on yourself. You must apply the exact same criteria, in the same order, to every single applicant. Document every step. This creates a clear paper trail that proves you made a lawful, business-based decision, which is your best defense against claims of discrimination. Use a standardized tenant screening checklist.

Do these seven checks thoroughly, Lykkers, and you won't just be filling a vacancy—you'll be selecting a business partner who helps your investment thrive. Now go build that flawless applicant file!