Do You Own an Income Property? Here Are Four Tips for Finding Great Tenants

Do You Own an Income Property? Here Are Four Tips for Finding Great TenantsTrusting another individual with your property can be nerve-wracking because it’s difficult to gauge how well they’ll care for their home from a viewing and rental application alone. However, there are several steps you can take to help ensure that you select responsible tenants that will take good care for your property while they live there.

1. Make Your Home Desirable

When creating your rental listing, show your property at its absolute best and list its attractive features. The listing should be well written with proper capitalization and full sentences, even if it’s only going on Craigslist. Include plenty of photos that are staged nicely to show the full potential of the home both inside and out.

If you want the best applicants, strive to be the best property! You need to attract tenants who are looking for a home rather than a crash pad.

2. Have A Thorough Application Process

Don’t be afraid to ask for in-depth information from your applicants. The more you know about them the more you can assess what kind of a tenant they’ll be. An application should ask for:

– full name
– the applicant’s job & their supervisor
– their income
– current address
– government identification (i.e. a photocopy of their driver’s license)
– next of kin or an emergency contact
– previous landlord references
– any additional info you think is necessary

3. Check References

One of the most important things you can do when choosing a tenant is check their references. At least one reference should be a past landlord, and it’s great to contact a current employer as well. Favor applicants who can prove they’ve been a good renter in the past and who seem to have reliable employment.

When calling references have a prepared list of questions. For past landlords you’ll want to ask about their cleanliness, if there was any damage to the property, noise complaints, or missed rent. When speaking to an employer, make sure to ask how long they’ve been working there, whether they’re a reliable worker, whether they’re respectful, and if they can see them continuing to work there for the long-term.

4. Meet Them!

Always meet potential tenants in person. See if they have a pleasant demeanor, if they’re easy to talk to and are polite to you, and whether they seem to take care of themselves. Trust your gut, if you have a bad feeling about someone then it may be best to keep looking.

Need more advice on income properties? Give me a call today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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7042 E Orange Blossom Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,500,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,726 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6761631
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience timeless luxury in this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home nestled in the coveted Paradise Valley, offering breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain! Recently updated with fresh paint and new flooring, the open floor plan is both airy and inviting, blending cozy comfort with modern style. The spacious bedrooms provide ample retreat, while the kitchen delights with granite countertops, a walk-in pantry, and a central island. The dining options included a breakfast bar and a sunlit breakfast room. The primary bedroom showcases a walk-in closet with built-ins and a luxurious ensuite bathroom that is a true spa-like retreat. Outdoors, indulge in a private oasis complete with serene water features, a built-in BBQ, and a cozy fire pit. The ramada overlooks a beautifully landscaped yard with synthetic grass, desert plants, and lush greenery, creating an ideal setting for relaxation or entertaining. Conveniently located near Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, vibrant Old Town Scottsdale, fine dining, and Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, this home offers both luxury and accessibility.

12800 E Doubletree Ranch Road Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,500,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,669 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6782117
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
REMODELED + MOUNTAIN VIEWS + 1.01 ACRE LOT + PREMIER LOCATION!! Set on a sprawling, private lot with sweeping mountain views, this home is packed with upgrades and eye-catching details that make it truly one-of-a-kind. A beautifully remodeled custom home, this modern southwest retreat blends current design trends with natural elements offering an inviting space for entertainment. Anchored by a cozy wood burning fireplace, the home offers an inviting open-concept great room, raised ceilings with tongue-and-groove detailing, with a sweeping wall of French doors that invites natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. A newly remodeled chef's kitchen impresses with sleek granite countertops, Viking appliances including Frigidaire Side by Side refrigerator and wine fridge, modern cabinetry, and a spacious island with a breakfast bar perfect for casual dining and entertaining. The primary suite offers a luxurious escape with a spa-inspired bath, separate rain shower, and custom-designed spacious closet. Outdoors, an enchanting resort-style backyard invites endless enjoyment for AZ Living & Lifestyle. Lounge by the sparkling pool, fire up the grill at the BBQ cabana, or stay refreshed with the misting system while listening to the soothing sounds of water features. Need to practice your golf swing? Enjoy the new putting green (Jan. 2024) perfect for practice or enjoying a little friendly competition! Oversized 2-car garage with built-in cabinetry, overhead storage racks, insulated garage door and newer motor. Need Room for Desert Toys.......12ft RV Gate, RV parking, added concrete slab and room to store! Imagine the additional space with NO HOA! List of Enhancements: New Electrical Panel & Water Heater (2024); HVAC, Elastomeric Roof Coating, Custom Gates, Concrete Pad (2023); Exterior Paint (2022); Custom Roman Shades, Garage Built-In Cabinets, Overhead Racks (2021); Fully Remodeled Kitchen, Baths, Interior Paint, Lighting (2020) and so much more. Please refer to the detailed document list. The Shea Corridor is ideally situated east of the 101 with close proximity to scenic hiking trails, premier golf courses, fine dining, shopping, the Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale A+ rated schools and a short distance to highly sought after Basis Scottsdale.

6711 E Camelback Road Unit 58 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,500,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,207 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6772800
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into Scottsdale luxury living at its finest with this beautifully designed 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence, previously featured on the cover of Luxe Magazine. Whether furnished or unfurnished, this home is the definition of sophisticated living and is located within walking distance of Scottsdale's premier destinations—Fashion Square, Mastros City Hall, and Ocean 44—as well as the Valley's best hiking trails. The home's contemporary design showcases top-of-the-line finishes, from Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, custom cabinetry, and block wall construction to energy-efficient windows and doors. The open floor plan features a great room with high ceilings, a gas fireplace, and no interior steps. The private backyard is surrounded by mature Ficus trees, artificial turf, and a water feature, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Located in the exclusive, gated Pavoreal community with 24-hour guard services, residents have access to resort-style amenities including a heated pool, spa, and clubhouse. This is the ideal lock-and-leave property for those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle in an A+ location. Key Features: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms + den/office Approx. 2,207 sq. ft. of living space Gorgeous backyard with water feature Modern kitchen with high-end appliances Block wall construction with upgraded windows and doors Located in the prestigious, gated Pavoreal community Walking distance to Scottsdale's top restaurants, shopping, and entertainment Minutes from world-class hiking trails Don't miss the opportunity to purchase this beautiful home.

1912 E Catamaran Court Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,500,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
3,798 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774355
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This gracious custom waterfront home is professionally decorated and loaded with upgrades. Situated on one of the largest north/south lakefront lots. it has plenty of space for entertaining and a large front & back yard. If you like large gatherings; this home is ideal! Beautiful gourmet kitchen with center island, stainless steel appliances and open to a large family room and eating area. Need more space? Formal dining and living room with vaulted ceilings is currently a game room and 2nd family room. Lower level has two bedrooms, one which would be ideal for home office. Love entertaining outdoors? Huge extended travertine patio with built-in bar and outdoor kitchen area alongside swimming pool. Pool is creatively placed to maximize the rear yard and boat dock for room to run & play. Need a large primary retreat? You'll fall in love with this light-filled bedroom and balcony overlooking the lake. Curl up in the sitting area or relax in the spa-like primary bathroom. Upstairs are 3 additional secondary bedrooms and a bathroom, one that is double-sized! Large oversized 3-car garage perfect if you drive a larger vehicle. Val Vista Lakes has many amenities to offer including pickkle-ball, tennis and raquetball courts, fitness & weight room, sand-entry lagoon, Jr. Olympic pool with spa, walking trails, community garden and a club available for events. Situated between both metropolitan airports it's a short commute either to Sky Harbor or Gateway! 20 minutes to downtown Phoenix to sporting & event venues. Excellent Gilbert schools with many charter or private schools to choose from as well as access to more than 5 top-notch hospitals. If you're considering a move - this home is a 10+ and a must-see.

4184 E Meadowview Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,500,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,700 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786826
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Situated on almost 1/2 An Acre lot in Seville Golf & Country Club, on one of the most sought after streets, this Completely Remodeled, 3,700+ Sq. ft property is the best home on the market. This 4 bed, 3.5 bath, open concept floor plan w/ 14ft ceilings has a modern look, w/ a chefs kitchen w/ double ovens, a flat cooktop stove, beverage fridge, & built in ice maker. House has brand new tile, paint, fixtures, appliances & cabinetry throughout. Primary suite has oversized bedroom w/ spa like bathroom which includes a walk-in shower, dual vanities, soaking tub & infrared Sauna. If entertaining is your jam, this backyard is meant for you. Home has a pool, built in BBQ Grill, Pickleball & basketball court with commercial lighting. The patio also has commercial grade misters & commercial grade heating. All of this, inside of Seville Country Club where members have access to a community gym, water park, tennis courts, indoor golf, youth programming a restaurant & more!

20609 W Colter Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$1,500,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,743 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781302
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover unparalleled luxury in this David Weekley home, located in the highly sought-after Victory at Verrado, Buckeye's premier 55+ community. This 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath residence combines elegance and comfort across 2,743 SF of living space. With an option to purchase furnished, this property is move-in ready and designed for discerning buyers who appreciate exceptional craftsmanship and thoughtful details. From the moment you arrive, it's clear that every detail has been carefully curated. The widened paver driveway, travertine steps with integrated lighting, and custom steel entrance gate create a welcoming, courtyard-style entry that sets the tone for the entire home. Inside, you're greeted by an inviting open-concept layout, with a ... breathtaking, unobstructed view of the backyard that draws you in from the moment you step through the door. The living room is open and airy, yet remains cozya perfect balance for both entertaining and everyday comfort. Connected to this living area is a chef's dream kitchen, featuring high-end cabinetry, a large island, a spacious walk-in pantry, and top-of-the-line appliances. Just off the kitchen, the expansive dining area is ideal for hosting, with room for a grand table and an unparalleled view that makes every meal an occasion. The private, split floor plan offers each bedroom its own ensuite bath, while a versatile den or office space completes the interior, allowing the home to adapt seamlessly to your lifestyle. Notable touches, like the state-of-the-art fingerprint-access wine and/or gun cellar, add exclusivity to this already extraordinary home. The backyard, however, is the true showstopperan outdoor oasis that offers Arizona living at its finest. Positioned on the golf course with sweeping west-facing views, this space is crafted to impress. Enjoy an award-winning pool, and a putting green inspired by the Victory Golf Course's practice area, all framed by Arizona's iconic sunsets. Multiple shaded lounge areas provide comfortable spaces for relaxation or TV watching, and a custom day bed adds a unique touch of resort-style luxury. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, equipped with a natural gas grill hookup, an outdoor fireplace, and a two-zone high-pressure misting system with remote control to keep you cool on warm days. The setting is unbeatableyou'll enjoy front-row seats to the community's firework shows, panoramic mountain views, and one of the best sunset backdrops Victory at Verrado has to offer. With its exceptional finishes, stunning design, and captivating outdoor spaces, this home is truly a rare opportunity in Victory at Verrado. Don't miss your chance to own this one-of-a-kind property!

10085 E Cochise Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,179 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778455
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxurious living. Fine finishes by Stone Creek, Offset Travertine Flooring, Slab Granite Countertops, Tumbled Stone Backsplashes, Stainless Steel Viking Appliances, Waterfront Lot & Shoreline (Approx. 88' Wide), Wonderfully Naturally Lit and Open Den/Office or 3rd Bedroom, the Kitchen Opens to a Spacious Family Room, Formal Living Room and Formal Dining Room, Vaulted Ceilings, Large Windows, Stone Fireplace, Updated Covered Travertine Patios, Fantastic Private Spool, Direct Entry 2 Car Garage with Built-In Storage and EV Charger. Navigate the Lake on the Included Boat. Directly Across from Resort-Like Heated Community Pool & Spa, All Single Level with No Steps except for path down to the Lake. Excellent Shopping & Fine Dining Near By.

20319 E Orchard Lane Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,500,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,474 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747973
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**EXTREMELY RARE R-43 MARICOPA COUNTY ISLAND PROPERTY - NO HOA or CC&R'S** This gorgeous one story home is situated on just slightly under an acre with a luxurious pool, an RV garage, and stunning mountain views. Once you step inside you'll immediately feel at home as you walk into the beautiful entryway that leads into the open concept kitchen, dining, and family room. This home is every designer's dream with over $375,000 in luxurious high end upgrades including but not limited to decorative wood beams, 10 ft back slider doors, built in Frigidaire refrigerator and freezer, fireplace, spray foam insulation and much more! The attention to detail in design and finishes are highly evident throughout the entire home. The backyard is your private oasis which includes a gorgeous pool complete with 2 pergolas, a rain water feature, and built in bbq which is great for entertaining. If you're looking for a timeless, luxurious home in a quiet and private neighborhood, come see what this beautiful home has to offer. **Warning Alert** BE READY to immediately fall in love!! Don't miss your chance to make this incredible home yours! Welcome home!

15406 E Cavedale Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,500,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,304 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785823
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Resort style living at its best! This quality constructed home offers peaceful privacy, as one of only 8 luxury properties in this private gated enclave located in North Scottsdale. Enjoy open concept living space with 20 ft ceilings and formal dining. Custom finishes throughout include upgraded kitchen appliances, knotty alder wood cabinets and doors, granite counter tops and stone accent. The extra large breakfast bar along with eat in kitchen provide wonderful space for entertaining. Oversized back patio offers access to the resort-style backyard with heated pool, spa, boulder waterfall, putting green and play area. Stunning panoramic views, along with direct access to the adjacent 22,000-acre McDowell Mountain Park makes this home the perfect fit for one looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, but still enjoy the upscale dining, golf and shopping North Scottsdale has to offer.

10897 N 126th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,500,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,356 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782099
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy this spacious 5 bedroom home located in the heart of Scottsdale! Situated on an oversized corner lot, the home offers the ideal great-room layout. Nicely upgraded by the current owner with designer features including an Artistic Glass Double Door entrance to the front living space, kitchen w/granite countertops & waterfall edge, contemporary tile backsplash, & stainless steel appliances. The kitchen opens to a spacious family room accented w/feature wall, built-in fireplace, modern tile & floating shelves. The split floor plan offers a private owners suite + 4 large bedrooms.. Swim in the remodeled pool, relax in the above ground spa or entertain by the charming gas fireplace & built-in BBQ. Large side yard offers plenty of room for Play & Pets. Updated Roof, A/C & more.

6915 E Montreal Place Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,390 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6686041
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
RARE OPPORTUNITY! Gorgeously updated home in the small privately gated community of The Reserve at Kierland. These beautiful homes are situated on the Westin Kierland Golf Course. This is 1 of only 17 homes in this community. Enjoy the expansive golf course views and take in the gorgeous sunsets! Incredible location in the heart of it all! Enjoy a nice evening stroll to dinner. You are just minutes from Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland shopping center which offer great shopping and restaurants.

8561 E Cactus Wren Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,500,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,484 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765691
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Highly upgraded gem with stunning views in gated community of Boulder Ridge. Enter thru a charming courtyard into an open common area with 14' ceilings, fireplace, and bar set between family room and home theater. Kitchen offers chiseled edge granite, large island, stainless steel appliances, stained shaker cabinets & walk-in pantry. Interior upgrades include sun screens throughout, central vac, and stained cabinets in baths, den & laundry to match the kitchen. Spacious master suite has dual walk-in closets & sink areas. At over 2/3 acre, the oversized lot offers privacy and generous space from the neighbors. The oasis backyard features pebbletec pool, spa, gas fireplace, built-in BBQ and exterior poolside bathroom. Large upper deck with traditional stairway offers 360deg mountain & city light views, along with power & lighting for entertaining. Besides that view deck, what sets this home apart from nearly all in the neighborhood... 4 car garage, with one bay offset with a secondary laundry, perfect for woodshop or secluded storage. Priced to sell quickly!

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