Screening Tenants

Jackie A • October 25, 2022


Good Screening is Essential


Screening applicants is complex, and a landlord in San Diego must be careful. Someone who appears to be pleasant may have a record of being late on rent payments. Others may be inconsiderate of their neighbors. Therefore, landlords in San Diego must screen their prospective tenants carefully. Although many would love to rent and respect the property, not all prospective tenants are good candidates. Practicing due diligence in screening the candidates avoids problems later.

Basic Qualities to Examine

Here are a few things to consider when screening tenants:

  • Credit score: A good credit score indicates that a tenant is financially responsible. You can check a potential tenant’s credit score by ordering a credit report.


  • Employment history: It is a good idea to verify a potential tenant’s employment history. A landlord can do this by contacting their current or previous employers. Be sure to ask about their job stability and income.




  • Rental history: Checking a potential tenant’s rental history is essential. This can be done by contacting their current or previous landlords. Be sure to ask about their rental history and whether they have ever been late on rent or caused any damage to the property.


  • References: Asking for references from friends, family, or colleagues is an excellent way to get more information about a potential tenant. Contact these references and ask about their experience with the potential tenant.


Be Careful!

Screening tenants takes more than just a casual glance at the records. Landlords in San Diego must know what to look for as they review all the reports. Looking at data that is not important has potential problems.

Moreover, there can be no evidence of intentional discrimination. California law has specific prohibitions against discriminatory practices, and there are severe consequences for showing deliberate prejudice against minorities. Mistakes in judgment are costly and avoiding them is a reason to use property management companies in San Diego.



Why You Should Use a Property Management Company to Screen Tenants

You should use a property management company to screen tenants for several reasons.

First, it saves you time. You can give the property management company your criteria for a good tenant, and they will do the work of finding someone who meets those criteria.

 Second, it gives you peace of mind. A good property management company can find tenants less likely to cause problems or damage your property.

Finally, it protects your investment. By screening tenants carefully, you are more likely to end up with tenants who will take care of your property and pay their rent on time.

How to Choose a Property Management Company

When you are looking for a property management company to help screen tenants, you should keep a few things in mind:

First, make sure the company is licensed and insured.

Second, check out online reviews from other landlords.

Third, ask the company for references from other landlords they have worked with.

Fourth, make sure the company has experience screening tenants in San Diego.

Fifth, be sure to choose one that is licensed and insured and has experience screening tenants in San Diego.

You should screen property management companies in San Diego just as carefully as tenants. If you do that, you will discover that Alta Vista Properties is one of the best.

We have considerable experience managing real estate portfolios in San Diego, and we do meticulous screening of prospective tenants. You will not have to worry about discriminatory practices or insufficient checks made on candidates. We are careful and deliberate because we will deal with these people if they become tenants. You can count on us to provide superior renters for your property.

Please do inquire at any time about our property management services. You can reach us at 858-274-3600 or by email at info@altavistaProperties.net. We look forward to hearing from you and answering your questions about what we do as a property management company in San Diego.



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