Why Tenant Screening Matters
Your rental property is more than just a building—it’s an investment that deserves protection. The success of your rental largely depends on one thing: choosing the right tenants. A well-screened tenant pays on time, respects your property, and follows the lease terms. A poorly screened one? They can cost you thousands in missed rent, damages, and legal fees.
At Simply Home Realty, we understand that effective tenant screening is the first—and most critical—step in protecting your investment from day one.
Step 1: Verify Income and Employment
The foundation of a reliable tenant starts with financial stability. Always request proof of income, such as pay stubs, W-2s, or employment verification letters.
A good rule of thumb is that tenants should earn two and a half to three times the monthly rent.
At Simply Home Realty, we go the extra mile by contacting employers directly to verify employment and ensure consistent income history.
Step 2: Conduct a Credit Check
A credit report reveals a tenant’s financial responsibility. Look for patterns—not perfection. Occasional late payments might not be a red flag, but consistent debt or collections could signal future problems.
Our team reviews credit reports for key indicators like:
On-time payment history
Outstanding debts
Previous evictions or bankruptcies
This helps us find financially stable tenants who treat obligations seriously.
Step 3: Check Rental History and References
Always speak with past landlords. Ask specific questions like:
Did the tenant pay rent on time?
Was the property well cared for?
Would you rent to them again?
A quick conversation can reveal a lot about how a tenant will treat your property.
Simply Home Realty uses verified landlord references and public records to confirm a tenant’s rental history—no shortcuts, no guesswork.
Step 4: Run Background and Eviction Checks
Protecting your property also means ensuring the safety of your community. Comprehensive background and eviction checks identify any potential issues early, such as prior evictions, criminal activity, or fraud.
Our property managers use trusted screening platforms to ensure all applicants meet strict compliance standards, giving you peace of mind and protection from liability.
Step 5: Trust the Experts
While you can perform tenant screening yourself, it’s a time-consuming process with legal pitfalls. Fair Housing laws are complex and constantly changing—and one small mistake can lead to costly penalties.
By partnering with a professional property management company like Simply Home Realty, you get:
Legally compliant screening procedures
Verified data from trusted sources
Fast, accurate tenant placement
Less stress and more peace of mind
Final Thoughts
Tenant screening isn’t just about filling a vacancy—it’s about protecting your investment and your peace of mind. With a strong screening process in place from day one, you reduce risk, avoid costly turnovers, and ensure your property stays profitable for years to come.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
At Simply Home Realty, we specialize in professional tenant screening and property management throughout Pierce and Thurston Counties. Let us handle the details so you can enjoy the rewards of stress-free property ownership.
📞 Call us today at (360) 870-6835 or visit www.simplyhomerealty.com to get started!
