The top fear of every landlord is having tenants that do not respect the property or that do not pay rent. This has stopped millions of people from in investing rental properties. People become paralyzed from the analysis of how many ways they can lose money because tenants may trash the property or not pay their rent. Sadly, this can and does happen. There are steps that you can take that can reduce the chances of having tenants that neglect your property or do not pay rent. Here are some tips for attracting good tenants:

• Individual Showings: People who work with a real estate agent and schedule individual showings are much more likely to be better tenants. The simple fact that sought the help of a professional real estate agent means that they are serious and care about where they live. They are not necessarily looking for the cheapest place to live. They appreciate a good landlord and reciprocate by being a good tenant.

• Screen Tenants: We recommend all tenants be screened. Be sure to determine a minimum credit score, monthly income requirements, background checks, and anything else that you want to be used as a screening method prior to tenants applying for your property.

• Communicate with Current Tenants: Be respectful of current tenants’ plans and schedules. Prospective tenants will talk to current ones about how they like living there. Do what you can to give ample notice to tenants about possible showings so that they know about it. This keeps them happy, and they will let potential renters that you are a good landlord.

• Fix, Clean, & Stage: Never show your property as soon as the last tenant has moved out. You need to make sure any repairs that are needed are completed and you need to clean it out. Shampoo the carpets, clean the toilet and tub, and paint old rooms. This will greatly improve the curb appeal of your property. Consider staging as well to show tenants what it will look like after they move in with their belongings.