For landlords and property managers, finding the right tenant is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining a successful rental property. A great tenant pays rent on time, respects the property, and adheres to the lease agreement. However, identifying these ideal renters can be challenging without a thorough tenant screening process.
At Picht and Sons, a family-owned property management company in Tallahassee, we specialize in finding responsible, long-term tenants who help keep rental properties profitable and well-maintained. Below, we explore the qualities that make a great tenant and how property owners can attract and retain the best renters in Tallahassee.
Key Qualities of a Great Tenant
1. Financial Responsibility
A responsible tenant pays rent on time and in full every month. Property managers should verify a potential tenant’s income level and credit history to ensure financial stability.
How to Verify Financial Responsibility:
- Request proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
- Conduct a credit check (a score above 650 is often preferred)
- Ask for previous landlord references to confirm their payment history
Useful Link: Check a tenant’s credit history through Experian or Equifax.
2. Stable Rental History
A great tenant has a history of renting without evictions or disputes. If a tenant moves frequently or has unresolved rental issues, it could be a red flag.
How to Check Rental History:
- Contact previous landlords to ask about lease compliance
- Review eviction records for any past legal disputes
- Ask why the tenant is leaving their current residence
Useful Link: Conduct background checks with MyRental.
3. Good Communication and Cooperation
Renters who communicate openly with their landlords help maintain a smooth rental experience. Whether it’s reporting maintenance issues or requesting lease renewals, clear communication prevents misunderstandings.
Signs of a Communicative Tenant:
- Responds promptly to messages
- Reads and understands lease terms before signing
- Reports issues in a timely manner
4. Respect for Property and Neighbors
A great tenant treats the rental unit as their own, keeping it clean and damage-free. Additionally, they respect neighbors by following community rules and noise ordinances.
How to Identify a Respectful Tenant:
- Ask for references from previous landlords
- Check criminal background records
- Observe their demeanor during the rental interview
5. Compliance with Lease Agreements
Reliable tenants follow lease terms, including pet policies, parking regulations, and maintenance responsibilities.
Lease Agreement Compliance Checklist:
- No history of lease violations
- No unauthorized subletting or extra occupants
- No past late payment issues
How Picht and Sons Screens for Great Tenants
At Picht and Sons, we implement a comprehensive tenant screening process to ensure that only the best tenants rent from our managed properties in Tallahassee.
1. Tenant Application Process
We require all applicants to provide:
- Employment verification
- Proof of income
- Rental history
- Credit and background check authorization
2. Detailed Background Checks
Using industry-leading screening tools, we check for past evictions, criminal history, and financial responsibility.
3. Interviewing Prospective Tenants
We personally interview potential renters to assess their reliability and commitment to lease terms.
Useful Link: Learn more about rental screening at National Tenant Network.
How Landlords Can Attract Great Tenants in Tallahassee
Finding high-quality renters isn’t just about screening—it’s also about making your property appealing to responsible tenants.
1. Maintain the Property
Well-maintained properties attract responsible tenants. Ensure:
- Clean, updated interiors
- Functioning appliances
- Safe and secure locks, lighting, and entryways
2. Offer Competitive Rental Rates
Setting the right rent price is crucial for attracting and retaining reliable tenants.
3. Provide Online Rent Payment Options
Offering digital payment solutions makes it easier for tenants to pay rent on time.
Useful Link: Set up online payments with Cozy or RentRedi.
Retaining Great Tenants
Once you’ve found a responsible tenant, keeping them happy is the best way to avoid costly turnovers.
1. Provide Quick Maintenance Responses
Address maintenance requests promptly to keep tenants satisfied and engaged.
2. Foster a Good Landlord-Tenant Relationship
Engage with tenants through regular check-ins and seasonal property updates.
3. Offer Lease Renewal Incentives
Encouraging long-term tenants by offering renewal discounts or small upgrades can help maintain stability.
Useful Link: Learn about Florida rental laws at Florida Housing.
Conclusion
Finding and keeping great tenants is key to a successful rental property. By implementing thorough screening processes, maintaining well-kept properties, and fostering positive tenant relationships, landlords and property managers can ensure long-term rental success.
At Picht and Sons, we specialize in matching landlords with reliable tenants in Tallahassee. Whether you’re looking to fill vacancies quickly or improve your rental income, we’re here to help.
Ready to Find Great Tenants?
Contact Picht and Sons today for expert property management services in Tallahassee!