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

Trusting 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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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

18140 W Oregon Court Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,200,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,180 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776173

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your desert retreat in this beautifully designed single-story home, where elegance meets comfort! Impressive curb appeal is highlighted by a low-maintenance desert landscape, modern stepping stones, stylish stone accents and outdoor lighting for that welcoming atmosphere. Step inside to discover an inviting open concept layout, accentuated by modern tray ceilings, recessed lighting and modern shiplap accent walls. This home features a neutral paint scheme that complements the crisp white plantation shutters. Warm wood-look tile floors provide a seamless flow throughout. Selling points include a culinary paradise in this stunning kitchen with a true butlers pantry, generous island with stylish pendant lighting, a gas cooktop, ample cabinet space, tile backsplash and modern hood. The primary bedroom showpieces a spacious walk-in closet with custom built-ins, while the ensuite offers a true spa retreat! An added distinction here is the attached RV garage which will accommodate all your adventures! This stunning residence features a serene backyard oasis with a glistening pool, a stack stone gas fireplace, and a fully equipped covered outdoor kitchen. You'll find this beautifully designed space creates the perfect sanctuary for year-round enjoyment!

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34198 S State Route 89 Highway Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$1,200,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,836 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782506

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Introducing a soon-to-be-completed, luxurious custom estate spanning over 4 acres of prime Wickenburg horse property! Step into a grand chef's kitchen that features high-end appliances, an expansive walk-in pantry & a generously appointed laundry room complete with a deep sink and abundant storage. The main residence offers three spacious en-suite bedrooms, plus a versatile flex room perfect for an office or additional bedroom. The primary suite serves as a private sanctuary, showcasing a spa-inspired bathroom w/ dual vanities, an oversized walk-in shower & a grand closet. An attached private casita, accessible from within the main house or through a separate exterior entrance, provides guests w/ a retreat featuring a kitchenette, full bathroom & a spacious walk-in closet. For car enthusiasts, a massive four-car garage offers ample space for vehicles and recreational gear. This is more than just a home; it's a lifestyle opportunity awaiting you in Wickenburg's most coveted location. Don't miss your chance to make this luxurious property your own!

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11119 W Mountain View Road Sun City, AZ 85351

$1,200,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,980 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782581

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One Of A Kind new build, 2023 custom home on acre plot with fantastic 2,000 sq. ft. separate garage. Also extra 1,300 sq. ft. attached garage. This stunning home with vaulted, beamed, tongue and groove ceilings from inside to outside is full of high-end special features. The owners were building their dream home, so no expense was spared. The front exterior presents a grand impression with a large welcoming vaulted front porch with huge rustic beams overhead and handsome classic tile underfoot. The front of this home is like no other with a dramatic 21 ft. expanse of iron and glass that includes stately double doors that offer a 7ft. wide opening. The back of the house is just as impressive with an extensive 30ft. wide multi-telescoping doors to bring the outside in and enhance entertaining events. The home was designed with the perfect blend of rustic and modern elements to provide both an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere. The European style kitchen was planned with entertaining in mind. The sparkling waterfall island is a massive 13ft. long by 5 ft. wide and has outlets. There is more than enough storage offered by lots of glossy white Thomasville units that include many deep drawers. Appliances are all bespoke white glass fronted Samsung. All surfaces are glittery white quartz and backsplash is modern white glass/mirror tile. Oversize 24 by 48 porcelain tile flows seamlessly throughout entire home and continues outside to both large back patios. There are three bedrooms, two of which have en suites. The main master bathroom has a vaulted tongue and groove ceiling and extra large walk-in closet. The bathroom includes custom artistic mosaic limestone tile with colorful, iridescent glass embedded for a kaleidoscope effect. The walk-in shower is large with two showerheads, one being an overhead rain spray. The main bathroom is equally lovely with custom tile on the walls and an elegant freestanding slipper style tub. Other features include oversize ceiling fans, lots of recessed lighting everywhere, inside and outside. Lights can be turned on and off from either side of rooms. The laundry room includes the latest Samsung washer and dryer. The list goes on and on and unlike a remodel everything in here had to meet strict building codes of 2023. This impressive home is really like no other so don't hesitate to see it for yourself.

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6240 E Helm Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,200,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,252 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6778939

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW! Spacious home in COVETED 85254 close to Kierland, Scottsdale Quarter & only 6 houses down from neighborhood park! TRUE 5 bedroom w/4 up & 1 down - makes great guest room or home office. Laundry chute leads to INCREDIBLE, oversized laundry room w/tons of counter space, built-in desk & sink. BEAUTIFUL, on-trend wood laminate floors (installed 2022) everywhere except stairs & bedrooms. Plantation shutters, updated bathrooms (2022), granite counter surfaces throughout! Kitchen features gas cooking & overlooks HUGE pebble-finish, diving pool & spa. Large covered patio, artificial turf & putting green for easy care outdoor entertaining! 3 car garage has epoxy floors, built-in cabinets & exit to backyard. PREPAID SOLAR, gas cooking/heating/dryer = energy efficiency! This is THE one!

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15312 E Verbena Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,200,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,741 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780433

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Built in 2016, this stunning Fountain Hills home offers modern luxury and a thoughtful layout. Featuring a split floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a dedicated office, and a spacious 3-car garage, it provides both style and functionality. The open-concept kitchen, complete with high-end appliances and a wine cooler, is perfect for entertaining, while plantation shutters add charm throughout. Outside, enjoy a solar-heated saltwater pool set against breathtaking desert views. The AC system is an energy efficient 5 zone Carrier HVAC System. With seamless indoor-outdoor flow and high-end finishes, this home is a standout in a desirable Arizona community.

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8502 W Cavalier Drive Glendale, AZ 85305

$1,200,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,600 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6727787

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Country living at its finest & located in the heart of Glendale! RV GARAGE&SHOP This home offers you 4 bedrooms + office,2 bathrooms, formal living area, huge laundry room, spacious family room with fireplace, upgraded kitchen w/island & dual ovens, tiled floors, & huge pantry. Outside you can enjoy the glassed in AZ room, hard to find diving pool & gazebo. The detached RV garage is 80x24 approx. , can fit 6 cars, roll down doors & has its own bathroom. Perfect for your toys, workshop or a future guest house. Neatr HEROES PARK, dead end street, slump block construction, mature shade trees, & extra covered area *shed in back All this & close to shopping, restaurants, schools, parks, Cardinals Stadium & Westgate entertainment district. A must see home!

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5605 W Darius Circle Prescott, AZ 86305

$1,200,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

5,539 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775543

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This luxury home in Whispering Canyon is the epitome of elegance, combining masterful craftsmanship with stunning design and sweeping views of Granite Mountain. Thoughtfully designed for both entertaining and everyday living, this custom-built residence offers main-level living with an open, light-filled great room floor plan. The chef's kitchen is truly a culinary masterpiece, featuring a 6-burner gas range with dual ovens, a butcher block island, walk-in pantry, and an adjoining wine room/butler's pantry. Throughout the home, you'll find exquisite details such as hand-scraped walnut flooring, custom alder cabinetry, stone accents, and intricate built-ins. The dining room is a showstopper with its beamed, tongue and groove ceiling, accented by illuminated rock features. Assumable loan. The spacious master suite offers luxurious touches, including a two-sided gas fireplace, double-tier tray ceiling, and a travertine bathroom. A rich wood tray ceiling and built-ins make the private office ideal for working from home. The upper-level covered Trex deck is perfect for outdoor entertaining, featuring a gas fireplace and built-in BBQ, all while enjoying panoramic mountain views. The lower level is a private retreat, complete with a kitchenette, bonus/media room, a large bedroom suite with a full bath and walk-in closet, and a family/game room with a dry barideal for multi-generational living or an in-law suite. Additional features include a versatile bonus/exercise/storage room, a workshop with both interior and exterior access, and a lower-level covered patio with faux grass and a partially fenced yard. With four fireplaces and an oversized 3-car garage, this home seamlessly blends luxury and functionality, offering the perfect lifestyle for those seeking both comfort and sophistication.

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17831 N 53rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,200,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,719 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760872

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this wonderful, bright Triple Crown home situated on spacious lot with beautiful grass and trees, a inviting outside space for entertaining family and friends. A large patio features a fire pit and outdoor cooking island equipped with gas grill, and bar. This home also has R.V. gate. Inside , you'll find open kitchen and family room design that enhances flow of living space. French doors lead to a spacious tiled patio, allowing seamless indoor-outdoor living. Throughout the home, white shutters add elegance, beautiful wood floors in living area and master suite. Welcoming kitchen overlooks family room and offers plenty of cabinets, granite counter tops and island/ additional work space. A large pantry provides ample storage for all needs. Dining options include a cozy area in the family room as well as formal dining room ad

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5455 E Lincoln Drive Unit 2019 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,200,000

-- Bed

1 Bath

1,005 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757668

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Beautiful Views, Great location - perfect lock and leave property! Mountain Shadows Resort Condominiums invites you to experience an exclusive lifestyle. Situated below Camelback Mountain as a breathtaking backdrop, the community features 41 condominiums and lofts that seamlessly blend comfort and luxury. Enjoy a serene Paradise Valley setting and full privileges at Mountain Shadows resort. Pricing includes furnishings, fixtures and equipment. All furnished units are eligible to participate in the rental program for the Resort!

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5850 E Le Marche Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,200,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,421 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760120

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience the perfect blend of masterful design and contemporary luxury in this stunning Spanish-style home, ideally situated in the much sought-after Scottsdale community of Spanish Wells. The meticulously landscaped exterior pays homage to the beauty of the Southwest while being lush and green. Step inside to find an inviting, light-filled space adorned with calming neutral tones, allowing for personal expression and style. The kitchen offers an expansive quartz center island that serves as a striking centerpiece, surrounded by ample cabinetry, sleek quartz surfaces, and stainless-steel appliances. The true highlight of this home is the outdoor oasis, a breathtaking lush landscape complete with a sparkling blue pool and multiple patio areas, perfect for enjoying the Arizona sunshine! Adjacent to the kitchen is a charming breakfast nook that boasts a generous bay window with an inviting view of the lush landscaping, multiple patios and sparkling pool. The family room, anchored by a beautiful fireplace and yet more great views of the resort style backyard and pool invites relaxation and tranquility. Each of the spacious bedrooms offers comfort and versatility for any family

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21864 E Sunset Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,200,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,203 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760441

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to 21864 E Sunset Dr, a stunning home in the heart of Queen Creek! This beautifully maintained property boasts 5 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, separate den, spacious living areas, and a kitchen perfect for entertaining. Enjoy3 the Arizona sunsets from your private backyard oasis, complete with covered patio, natural gas outdoor bbq and a beautiful pool. Located in a quiet, friendly neighborhood, this home offers easy access to parks, shopping, dining, and top-rated schools. Don't miss the opportunity to make this house your home.

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2204 N Maple Avenue Huachuca City, AZ 85616

$1,200,000

6 Beds

6 Baths

7,154 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762067

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Absolutely stunning property! Live in all or part with CUP create an income property. Perfect for events. Manicured gardens surround the impressive two-story main house, which boasts over 5100 sq ft and a grand entryway. Generously appointed rooms, exude a sense of grandeur in this upscale estate. Equally remarkable is the guest house, over 3,000 sq ft of inviting space. Additionally, there's a versatile multi-use pavilion spanning nearly 1500 sq ft for a game room, home theater, event reception area, or even a second guest quarters—endless possibilities await! The property also features a pool house, greenhouse, and utility/gym room. Enjoy the expansive 1220 sq ft workshop/garage, along with a large, three-sided covered carport for vehicle/equip. storage & potential ample event parking.

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