Did you know that renters make up over 44% of the Kissimmee population? There are so many prospective tenants out there waiting for the perfect new homes to move into.
You might think that makes finding tenants easy, but this isn't necessarily true. Sure, if you have a great property at a tempting price, you're going to have tenants lining up to apply. That doesn't mean that they're all going to be good tenants.
This is where a good tenant application form comes in.
Let's talk about it. Read on to learn all about what to put on a rental property application.
Do You Have Pets?
If you don't already have information about whether or not you allow pets on your property in the listing, people with and without pets will apply. This is normal.
If you don't allow pets, or if you only allow certain kinds of pets, it's important to ask this question. You can also ask about the size and breed of the pet. If the pets aren't suitable for your rental unit, this will weed out those tenants right away.
How Many People Will Live in the Unit?
You can ask about the number of people that will be living in the unit within reason. You may be allowed to limit the number of people who can live in the rental home, but make sure that you abide by local and federal restrictions.
You can not discriminate against families with children when you set a limit on how many people can live in the rental home. You must have a good reason for setting a low limit on tenants.
How Long Have You Lived in Your Current Rental?
This is helpful for you to know because it may give you an idea of whether or not this tenant is going to be responsible and whether or not they may have the potential to be a long-term tenant. Ideally, you'll end up with a fabulous tenant who renews their lease.
Tenants who have lived in one rental for a long time likely have a good relationship with their landlord or property manager. They also clearly pay on time every month.
When and Why Are You Leaving?
Regardless of whether a tenant has been at their current residence for 6 months or 6 years, you should ask why they're leaving. Have they been evicted? Did they get a new job that requires them to relocate?
You also need to know when they're leaving (and when they plan on moving in) for your own convenience.
What Can't a Landlord Ask?
There are plenty of things that landlords can't ask on a home rental application. If you're unsure, talk to your property managers.
You cannot ask about the tenant's source of income. All that matters is that they have reliable funds to rent the apartment. You also can't ask about their sexual orientation, their race, or disabilities.
Make sure that you're not asking anything that would discriminate against someone who's part of a protected class.
What's On Your Tenant Application Form?
Keep these questions in mind next time you draft a tenant application form. When in doubt, talk to your helpful property managers and they'll be sure to help you. They'll ensure that you get the best tenants and that you abide by fair housing laws.
Are you still searching for a property management company to help you out? At Allegiant Management Group, we're here to help! Reach out to us so we can start working together today.
