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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25615 S Ribbonwood Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

Open House

$660,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,137 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777179

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

GOLF COURSE LOT HAND-PICKED at GRAND-OPENING of PALO VERDE! ENJOY VIEWS down 2 fairways! Luxurious Plantation Shutters, Vaulted Ceilings, Fans Thruout. Dream Kitchen-Gorgeous Granite, Double Wall Ovens, Garden Window,Kitchenaide Stainless Steel Appliances. Formal Dining Rm. Mirrored WetBar.Entertainment Center is optional.1st BRm 19X15! Amazing Views! Step out to Covered Patio on wide lot with Citrus Trees. Flowering Desert landscaping on auto-watering. Enjoy Jetted Spa Bath. Beautiful Travertine Showers in Both Baths. 2nd BRm15x14! Has built-in Office. 5ft extended Garage Custom Builtin Wall of Cabinets, Work Bench+ GOLF CART garage! HANDICAPPED FEATURES. ¼ MILE TO PRIVATE Palo Verde Clubhouse, Pools. Activities. Guarded 24/7. OwnedSolarElectric Panels

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1176 E Erie Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$659,999

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,136 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753945

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom gem in the heart of Gilbert is MOVE IN READY with a NEWER AC and NEWER hot water heater, giving you serious energy savings! Step inside and prepare to be wowed by the open-concept living area - perfect for all the cozy nights in or lively get-togethers! The gourmet kitchen has granite countertops, modern white cabinets, HUGE pantry and a big island. But the real showstopper? The backyard! This outdoor space is next level. With a fenced pool, TWO outdoor sheds, an outdoor bar and grill and a covered patio! & don't forget about the the garage with built-in cabinets! Plus there's a laundry room just off the entrance with a built-in beverage fridge! Located in a prime Gilbert neighborhood with easy access to top schools, shopping, and dining.

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20272 W Hollyhock Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$659,995

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,630 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6717732

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

8760 sqft lot - Optional Guest Suite - Gourmet kitchen, quartz countertops, full tile backsplash, white cabinets, pendant lights at island, stainless steel appliances w/pyramid hood & gas cooktop - Multi-slide doors at great room - Walk-in shower at primary bath - Pre-plumb locations at laundry room, soft water loop, gas to patio - 9 x 35 tile floors throughout except for carpet in bedrooms - Satin nickel fixtures throughout - Ceiling fan pre-wires at bedrooms, patio and great room - 10-foot ceilings - Two-tone paint - Garage service door - Cabinets & wet bar sink at guest living room w/ beverage center & rough-in for microwave.

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9390 Mead Lane Snowflake, AZ 85937

$659,995

6 Beds

4 Baths

2,624 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731913

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Wow! Check out this opportunity! 2 homes on 80 acres fully off grid and self sustaining. The PRIMARY HOME offers 1568 square feet of living space with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Floors recently upgraded to vinyl plank throughout. Split bedroom floor plan. Kitchen features hickory cabinets, granite counter tops, large kitchen island, farm sink and NEWER gas stove. Primary home is powered by 30 solar panels which is sustained by banks of lithium batteries. In addition to a 2 car masonry garage, the primary home also features a single car Graceland garage, a 14 X 40 carport and a 10 x 20 Graceland Lofted Barn Cabin for extra storage. The GUEST HOME offers 1056 square feet of living space with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. See additional description. The living space is bright and airy and features a split bedroom floor plan and breakfast bar. Guest home is powered by 25 solar panels and sustained by banks of 12 AGM Maintenance Free batteries. 1 private well services both homes. Another private well is located on the upper 40 acres and is currently being used for their cattle. Property can be split and has passed a perc test. See document file. Power is also located nearby if you would prefer that option. This property would be perfect for multi-generational housing or could use guest home as rental income! Property is all off-grid but only 10 miles from town. Best of both worlds!

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5616 W Paseo Way Laveen, AZ 85339

$659,990

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,150 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782029

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover Modern Luxury and Timeless Comfort Step into this brand-new, never-lived-in home and experience unparalleled luxury. Boasting 5 spacious bedrooms and 3.5 beautifully designed bathrooms, this residence offers the perfect blend of style, functionality, and comfort. At the heart of the home is a chef's dream kitchen, featuring stunning quartz countertops, sleek stainless steel appliances, and custom cabinetry designed for both beauty and practicality. The open-concept layout is enhanced by soaring 8-foot doors and a premium 4-panel sliding glass door, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor living spaces. Key highlights include: An in-law suite for added privacy and convenience. A third bedroom with master-suite proportions. Two versatile flex spaces perfect for a a home office, den, or your personalized retreat. Over $34,000 in luxurious upgrades throughout the home. The master suite is a true sanctuary, offering a private retreat with elegant finishes. Outside, the paver driveway and immaculate curb appeal create a welcoming first impression. Why wait for new construction when this move-in-ready gem is waiting for you? With every detail thoughtfully designed and upgrades included, your dream home is here.

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3297 E Saddletree Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$659,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,024 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781860

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Wales Ranch! San Tan Valley's newest master planned community with a wealth of amenities to enjoy. Conveniently located with easy access to great local attractions and amenities, including shopping and dining at Queen Creek Marketplace, outdoor recreation at San Tan Regional Park, fresh produce at Schnepf Farms and popular sites such as Queen Creek Olive Mill. A copy of the public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate's website.

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18950 W Ocotillo Road Waddell, AZ 85355

$659,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,623 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739881

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! Topaz with 4 bedrooms + study, 3 baths. Large multi slide door off the great room that leads out to the extended covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel 36'' gas cooktop, wall oven, micro, canopy hood. Sonoma Maple Slate (gray) cabinets with pull out trash drawer, 42'' kitchen uppers, and stainless steel under mount single bowl kitchen sink. Himalaya white granite countertops in kitchen and owner's bath. Upgrade flooring includes EMS Novales 12x24 Astra tile in all areas of the home except beds/closets. 5'' baseboards and 3 1/4 door casings throughout. Dual sinks at bath 2, 8' tall garage door w/two controls, garage service door for easy access into the backyard and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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7450 W Quail Track Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

Open House

$659,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,084 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755370

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Corner lot, North/South, October completion! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Tamarron' floorplan features 4 full bedrooms with a study, 3 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes White Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 9' ceilings, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Photos of model home, options may vary-home is under construction*

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3453 N Barron -- Mesa, AZ 85207

$659,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,571 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756983

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fall in love with the desirable open layout featuring soaring vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace, expansive windows, sleek wood-style flooring, & sliding glass doors to the backyard. The impeccable kitchen has SS appliances, quartz counters, mosaic tile backsplash, plenty of white cabinetry with crown molding, recessed & pendant light fixtures, & a sizable island w/breakfast bar. Retreat to the main suite offering a bay window & an immaculate ensuite w/dual sinks, glass shower, & walk-in closet. The tranquil backyard with covered patio, built-in BBQ, Travertine tile flooring, & well-maintained landscaping is excellent for memorable get-togethers! This value will not disappoint!

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9035 W Quail Track Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$659,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,626 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772738

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning single-story home is ready for you! The 3-car tandem garage accommodates all your vehicles. Step inside to an open layout designed for seamless entertaining, featuring a cozy fireplace, elegant plantation shutters, built-in fire sprinklers, durable tile flooring, pre-wired surround sound, and soothing paint tones. The kitchen is a chef's delight with staggered cabinets adorned with crown molding, stainless steel appliances, a stylish tile backsplash, a pantry, granite countertops, and an island with a breakfast bar. The versatile semi-open den is perfect for a formal dining area, home office, game room, or anything else you can imagine. Retreat to the main bedroom, which offers backyard access and a private bathroom with a huge walk-in closet and a separate tub and shower. The backyard is an oasis with fragrant citrus trees, a lush grassy area, a sparkling pool, a relaxing spa, an array of palm trees, and a covered patio for outdoor enjoyment. This move-in ready home is waiting to welcome home!

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532 N Bell Drive Chandler, AZ 85225

$659,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,788 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777139

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home featuring soaring vaulted ceilings and a spacious layout where the kitchen seamlessly opens up to the family living space. The modern kitchen boasts a convenient island and stainless steel appliances, including a microwave, range, and dishwasher, making it perfect for entertaining. The primary en-suite is conveniently located on the main level, while upstairs you'll find three additional bedrooms and a versatile loft area. Step outside to the large back porch, ideal for relaxation, and enjoy the refreshing pool, creating a perfect outdoor oasis for gatherings and summer fun.

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9233 E Sector Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$659,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,410 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774348

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE IN READY HOME! This WILSON plan was the former Model and it is stunning! This home includes all the appliances, chandeliers, window treatments and ceiling fans in the home. This home features 'Brellin Purestyle' (Greige color) cabinets with Satin Nickel pulls throughout the home. 'Bianco Levanto' Quartz countertops in Kitchen and Jasmine White Quartz countertops in Owners Bath and Bath 3. Upgraded shower surrounds in bathrooms and upgraded wood tile throughout the downstairs and carpet flooring in the bedrooms. The finished backyard includes an impressive fireplace welcoming family and friends to cozy up! Too many upgrades to list!

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