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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9021 W Williams Road
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,059,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
2,682
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770947
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Farm to table living with room for lots of toys! This updated main house sits on a .98-acre lot with NO HOA and offers incredible income potential! This 4 bedroom 3.5 in the main home and 1 bedroom and full bathroom in guest house. This home features include north-south exposure, a circular driveway, RV gate, and an extra-long covered patio. Income options abound with a detached guest house, vehicle storage, ample parking, and RV hookups (4+ vehicles, 2 with 220V). Enjoy luxury amenities like an oversized pool, chicken coop & garden, and a 2-car garage with workshop. Don't miss this unique Peoria oasis blending comfort, space, and income opportunities
12325 N Petra (lot 243) Circle
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,050,196
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,557
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6652431
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF BUILDER INCENTIVES! $20,000 BUILDER OPTIONS CREDIT or 1 YEAR INTEREST RATE BUY DOWN TO 5.99%. Whispering Canyon new construction release in Prescott! Natural setting, lush topography on over 1/2 ac with RV Garage. Open great room design w/ 10' ceilings throughout. Standard features include tile & carpet in common area, carpet in bedrooms, windows galore, soffit ceiling, chef kitchen w/ breakfast bar island, granite & cabinet options, pantry, appliances & access to covered back patio. Owner en suite has walk in shower, large closet & dual sink vanity. 2 guest bedrooms share full bath, + large office/den (or 4th bedroom), & 1/2 bath. You select builder options/design finishes. Front landscaping is included. Covered paver patio & driveway standard. VISIT OUR MODEL HOME.
32442 N 142nd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,050,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,025
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6604869
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*TO BE BUILT OR WE CAN BUILD YOUR DEAM HOME ON THIS GREAT LOT WITH INCREADIBLE VIEWS!! . THE SPACIOUS 4 BDROOM, 3 BATHS HAVE 3025 SQUAREFEET., LARGE ISLAND, 4 CAR GARAGE **PICTURES ARE OF A PREVIOUSLY BUILT 3025 PLAN AND MAY CONTAIN FEATURES OR UPGRADES NOT INCLUDED.
14117 E Aloe Vera Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,050,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,025
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6604864
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**TO BE BUILT OR WE CAN BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME ON THIS GREAT LOT WITH INCREDIBLE VIEWS!. PICTURES ARE OF A PREVIOUSLY BUILT 3025 PLAN AND MAY CONTAIN FEATURES OR UPGRADES NOT INCLUDED
32568 N 142nd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,050,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,025
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6604868
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*TO BE BUILT OR WE CAN BUILD YOUR DEAM HOME ON THIS GREAT LOT WITH INCREADIBLE VIEWS!! . THE SPACIOUS 4 BDROOM, 3 BATHS HAVE 3025 SQUAREFEET., LARGE ISLAND, 4 CAR GARAGE **PICTURES ARE OF A PREVIOUSLY BUILT 3025 PLAN AND MAY CONTAIN FEATURES OR UPGRADES NOT INCLUDED.
Show Low
AZ 85901
$1,050,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,080
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761552
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully appointed single-level custom home in the highly sought after Sierra Pines. Nestled on cul-de-sac 1+/- acre lot in the tall pines. Upgrades include new roof in 2021, A/C in 2023, water heater in 2024 & back deck redone in June 2024. Boasting Gourmet Kitchen, Office/Flex Rm with a separate entrance, Spacious Bd Rms, Great Rm + Den, Formal Dining Rm, Clawfoot Tub in Guest Bath, Separate Tub/Walk-in Shower in Master Bath and the list goes on.
4584 N 192nd Drive
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$1,050,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,525
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6784385
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Public Remarks: BRAND NEW Constructionwith NO HOA! Stunning Modern Farmhouse on a 1 ACRE LOT w/ Horse Privileges. 4 Car Side Entry Garage and GUEST LIVING w/ Separate Entry. Gourmet Kitchen with WOLF APPLIANCES, high-end Cabinets w/ 42'' uppers, White Quartz Countertops, 36'' Cooktop, Built-in Stainless Steel Microwave Drawer and Wood Plank tile Floors. Stunning Master Bathroom with Freestanding Soaking Tub, BEACH ENTRY Modern Glass Shower and Beautiful Double Vanities. Exceptional Energy Efficient - boasting Spray Foam Insulation, Premium Trane 14 seer AC units & High-end Windows. Superior Construction and Craftmanship includes Premium Roofing System, Premium Synthetic Stucco & much more! Close to hiking and horseback riding trails in San Tan Mtns. ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE April/May.
65xxx N Juans Canyon (fs 1094) Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,050,000
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6314469
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Own a patented GOLD MINING CLAIM with SPECTACULAR VIEWS!! Includes unbelievable mountain top OFF-THE-GRID CUSTOM HOME with covered viewing patio/deck surrounding all sides on over 10 acres in far north Cave Creek. Completely self-sufficient owner-built home with soaring ceilings, open floor plan, lots of counter tops, lots of cabinets, huge island in kitchen open to living/dining area w/large windows to bring in the view. Spacious Master Suite has sitting area, walk-in closet, separate jetted tub/shower. Unique energy-efficient home uses wind & solar with back-up generator for power, propane for gas and hauled water with 10,000 gallon water holding tank. Enjoy peace & quiet. Bring your horses & toys. MUST SEE this Magazine Mining District property adjacent to the Red Rover Mine! Cash Only! Recently remodeled bathrooms, interior paint. Property is behind gated access. There is always a breeze and endless views looking at the Tonto National Forest! No HOA!!
1319 W Magma Road
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$1,050,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,152
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765284
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this breathtaking custom home by AAR Development LLC, where luxury meets functionality in every detail. Spanning 3,152 square feet of living space on a sprawling 54,450 square foot lot, this home offers an unparalleled living experience with modern amenities and stunning architectural features. Step into a world of sophistication and elegance with this remarkable 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom custom home. This home combines exquisite craftsmanship with modern design elements to create a living space that is both luxurious and functional. The exterior of the home is a testament to quality and style, featuring a durable tile and metal roof and a refined stucco and stone facade. The spacious 3 car garage with epoxy flooring, designed to accommodate a 1-ton pickup, and the expansive RV garage with epoxy flooring provide ample space for all your vehicles and storage needs. Inside, the home boasts soaring 12-foot ceilings in the living areas, enhancing the open and airy ambiance. The kitchen is a chef's dream, with an oversized island, custom quartz countertops and backsplash, and state-of-the-art appliances including a 36 freestanding induction range and a 66 custom built-in Frigidaire freezer and refrigerator. Custom cabinetry with 42 upper cabinets and a roll-out microwave drawer complete this stunning space. Each bathroom in the home is uniquely designed, with custom quartz countertops and high-end fixtures. The master suite is a luxurious retreat, featuring a freestanding tub, a walk-in shower with custom marble tile, dual shower heads, and frameless shower glass. The living room is adorned with spectacular beams and several southern-facing windows that frame breathtaking views of the San Tan Mountains. An expansive 800 square foot covered patio offers the perfect space for outdoor entertaining or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. Additional features include a fourth bedroom with a separate exit, ideal for a home office, a mudroom with shoe storage, and a spacious laundry room with built-in cabinets and a laundry sink. The home is equipped with modern technology, including a Google Nest video doorbell, and offers the freedom of living without HOA restrictions. Don't miss the opportunity to own this extraordinary custom home and experience the ultimate in luxury living.
12707 W Missouri Avenue
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$1,050,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,732
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781620
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover luxury and exceptional craftsmanship in this expansive custom-built home on over 2/3 acre, thoughtfully designed with premium finishes and meticulous attention to detail. Enter a warm, inviting space featuring a cozy family room, formal dining area, and a game room with a custom wet bar—complete with sink, filtered water, wine storage, and built-in fridge. The bright, open kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting a Thermador gas stove and ample space—ideal for hosting or everyday gourmet cooking. The split-floor layout provides a private master suite, where you'll enjoy a spacious snail shower, a relaxing Jacuzzi tub, double vanities, and two walk-in closets. Additional bedrooms include a full en-suite and a Jack-and-Jill bath with abundant closet space. The backyard is designed for entertaining, featuring a diving pool, adjacent spa, built-in BBQ, and a fire pit. A spiral staircase leads to a 360-degree viewing deck with breathtaking mountain views. The property also includes a three-car garage, a 24x40 detached RV garage with a convenient half bath, additional RV parking with a sewer hookup, and a captivating 250-gallon aquarium. This home truly has it all, offering an extraordinary lifestyle in a spectacular setting.
19550 N Grayhawk Drive Unit 1117
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,050,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,834
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787086
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Wow and pride of ownership shines through, this stunning town home situated on the Pristine Grayhawk golf course. Light and bright, fabulous split floor plan. Newly updated Kitchen, large family and Dining, spacious primary that overlooks private patio, plus two guest suites. Perfect location to shopping, restaurants, grocery and much more. Do not miss this opportunity, would make for a great lock & leave.
2667 E Overlook Drive
Williams, AZ 86046
$1,050,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,431
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777301
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to 2667 E Overlook Dr in Williams, Arizona—your gateway to luxury and adventure. This stunning property, located in the exclusive gated community of Cedar Mountain Heights, offers over 2,600 square feet of luxury country living on 6 acres of high desert chaparral. It's the perfect retreat for families looking for a vacation home or for an investor seeking a lucrative VRBO opportunity after waiting period is satisfied. Situated just 50 miles south of the Grand Canyon, 15 miles from Route 66 and Bearizona, 42 miles to Flagstaff, and 70 miles to Sedona, this property serves as an ideal base for exploring Northern Arizona's most iconic destinations. The area is famous for its exceptional stargazing—imagine the entire Milky Way during new moons— and offers endless outdoor activities, including camping, off-roading, and exploring ancient native ruins. The home itself is a masterpiece of design and comfort, featuring hand-scraped solid hardwood floors, vaulted 16-foot ceilings, and a harmonious blend of modern amenities with reclaimed rustic accents. The fully equipped entertainment kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and plenty of counter space, is perfect for hosting large gatherings. There are four spacious bedrooms, including a 300-square-foot master suite that boasts a cozy wood-burning fireplace, a luxurious spa tub, and direct access to the expansive wrap-around deck with breathtaking views of the western horizon. A 500-square-foot private studio suite above the garage comes with its own kitchenette, offering additional privacy and convenience. The living room, master bedroom, and second bedroom all open onto the deck and the stunning views of the vast landscapes stretching to the horizon. Outside, you'll find incredible spaces for entertaining and relaxation, including a large circular flagstone patio with a generous fire pit, perfect for gatherings and stargazing. The property is adorned with beautiful juniper trees and offers stunning views of wind farms, desert landscapes, and the Coconino National Forest, which is just a short walk away and features numerous trails to explore. Cedar Mountain Heights, an exclusive gated community with under 30 parcels, provides a serene, rural lifestyle at an elevation of 6,500+ feet. Residents enjoy clean air, moderate summers, crisp white winters, and the chance to observe a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, deer, mountain lions, and hummingbirds. The HOA ensures that the road is maintained year-round, including snow removal during the winter months, making the property accessible throughout the year. Currently operating as a successful VRBO, this property presents a fantastic investment opportunity with a proven rental history. Potential buyers interested in continuing the short-term rental model can inquire for more details on rental regulations and income potential. Additionally, the property offers room for customization with an unfinished basement that has been pre-designed for a movie theater space, ready for your personal touch. The sturdy construction, featuring 2x6 walls, also provides ample storage space and possibilities for future expansion. Utilities for the home include hauled water, propane for heating, electric service provided by Arizona Public Service, and a conventional septic system. The HOA takes care of road maintenance, ensuring easy access year-round, including during snowy winters. 2667 E Overlook Dr is more than just a house it's a lifestyle. Whether you're seeking a peaceful family getaway, an adventure-filled base for exploring Northern Arizona, or a profitable investment property, this home offers it all. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional property in the heart of the great high desert of Northern Arizona.