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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5652 N 188th Lane
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$605,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,140
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787823
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Home, sweet home! This stunning residence in Zanjero Trails features a 3-car garage, eye-catching stone accents, and breathtaking mountain views. You're welcomed by a spacious great room with a soothing palette, recessed lighting, classic plantation shutters, and attractive wood-look flooring. The spotless kitchen comes with quartz counters, crisp white cabinetry with crown moulding, a stylish tile backsplash, SS appliances, a pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. You'll also find a den ideal for a workspace or lounge. The main bedroom offers plush carpeting, an ensuite with double sinks, and a walk-in closet. Venture out onto the lovely backyard, which includes a covered patio, a charming ramada for al fresco dining, well-laid pavers, and pristine artificial turf. Make it yours!
1311 S Ponderosa Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$605,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,731
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738445
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Higley Park is Gilbert living at its finest. Your Children get the best education, a community splash pad and swimming pool. You get the finest in restaurants, nightlife, shopping at Epicenter and the San Tan Mall. All of this in a safe clean centrally located community with great highway access and an easy commute to anywhere. This home has a unique floorplan downstairs where the 2 smaller rooms have been turned into one great room that makes the home feel much larger. Recent upgrades include. All new backyard with synthetic grass 2023, Interior paint and carpet 2023, Travertine in Master bath 2023, New light fixtures and ceiling fans 2023, new hot water heater 2021, 2 new high end A.C. units 2020.
29277 N 70th Lane
Peoria, AZ 85383
$605,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,172
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754671
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful 4-bed, 3-bath home in the sought-after Sonoran Mountain Ranch! Great curb appeal with a split 3-car garage, stone accent details, & a manicured desert landscape. You'll love the desirable open layout paired with plantation shutters, abundant natural light, tall ceilings, designer paint, and tile flooring w/plush carpet in bedrooms. The gourmet kitchen features granite counters, staggered Cherry cabinetry, a pantry, recessed & pendant lighting, a prep island w/breakfast bar, and SS appliances w/cooktop gas. Enter the main bedroom to find an ensuite that boasts dual sinks, a large walk-in closet, & a shower w/dry-off area. The charming backyard is the best spot for relaxing or entertaining, offering a paver-covered patio & artificial turf! What a GEM!
3831 W Lanham Drive
New River, AZ 85087
$605,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,356
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761751
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW A/C AND CARPET This immaculate home boasts a host of desirable features, including a brand new A/C system and fresh carpeting. With 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a separate dining area, and a den/office, this residence offers ample space for comfortable living and entertaining. As you walk up to the home, you're greeted by charming stone accents and a private courtyard, setting the tone for the inviting atmosphere within. The heart of the home is the stunning kitchen, designed with entertainers in mind. Granite counters, a spacious island with breakfast bar, and stylish tile backsplash complement the stainless steel appliances and wall oven. Plus, the kitchen is equipped with a large walk-in pantry and convenient sliding pullouts, ensuring storage and organization are effortless.French doors lead you to the beautifully landscaped backyard, featuring artificial turf for easy maintenance and additional space for outdoor enjoyment. The master bedroom is a serene retreat, boasting a bay window perfect for a cozy reading nook and a sizable walk-in closet. With its thoughtful design, modern amenities, and prime location near Great Hearts Academy, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Don't miss your chance to make this dream home yours! CARPET INSTALLED AFTER PICS TAKEN. *Most bedrooms have new carpet and it all matches.
4259 W Jasper Drive
Chandler, AZ 85226
$605,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,272
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766947
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This diamond in the rough 3-bedroom, with an office that can be made into a 4th bedroom 2-bathroom, with a powder room and a pool in Chandler is waiting for your updates! The well-maintained property offers comfortable living spaces, a functional layout, and a convenient location just minutes from shopping centers, the 10 & 101 freeways, and the airport. This is the perfect opportunity to own a home in a vibrant and accessible community.
4407 E Gold Poppy Way
Phoenix, AZ 85044
$605,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,432
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6748634
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW CARPET IN BEDROOMS just installed! Welcome to Mountain Ranch Estates, where this beautifully upgraded 2-story home offers the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Featuring 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 full baths, this residence is designed for modern living. Enjoy the elegance of plantation shutters throughout, adding a touch of timeless sophistication. The gourmet kitchen and living areas have been recently updated, creating a fresh and contemporary atmosphere. The home boasts a 3-car garage, ideal for extra storage or a workshop. Step outside to your private oasis with a sparkling pool, perfect for Arizona summers. Situated in one of the few Ahwatukee neighborhoods with natural gas, this home is a rare find.
9510 W Menadota Drive
Peoria, AZ 85382
$605,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,147
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754942
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
REDUCED ANOTHER 10K Bring offers! I'm beautiful inside! Pride of ownership! Amazing 2+2 updated home in the adult 45+ community of Westbrook Village. 2147 SF home with a huge low maintenance yard. The kitchen, bathrooms and flooring were all updated in 2016. Roof was replaced in 2022. Garage door opener 2023. Water heater 2021. New air conditioning 2018. Front patio tile in 2024. Low monthly HOA of 64.70 for loads of ammenities. 2 clubhouses and pools. Tennis and Pickleball. 2 restarants with bars. Golf course community. Some of the furniture and decorator items can be purchased on a seperate bill of sale. Close to all shopping and restaurants. This will not last long!
27167 W Marco Polo Road
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$605,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,332
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786340
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
GOLF COURSE LOT with excellent view of #4 green. Furniture available outside of Escrow. 2332 square feet with casita, 3 bedrooms + den that is set up as a bedroom. This Destiny model shows like a new model, 1 owner and lived in less than 6 months a year. Elevated view of the 4th green with the beautiful White Tanks in the background. Very private patio with cart path on the other side. Must see document section for details on upgrades.
944 S Grand --
Mesa, AZ 85210
$604,999
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,711
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766857
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning custom-built Mesa home will impress from the moment you enter. With 5-bedrooms with 2 full baths and 2 half baths, this home offers an exceptional living experience. The spacious interior boasts soaring ceilings, a gourmet chef's kitchen, and abundant natural light throughout. The primary suite, conveniently located on the main floor, features an en-suite bathroom with a jacuzzi tub. Upstairs, you'll find four additional guest bedrooms, one of which includes a private powder room and a large balcony that overlooks the beautifully landscaped backyard. Outside you'll discover your own private oasis, complete with a sparkling pool w/ a grotto. The oversized Ramada with a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen sets the stage for unforgettable memories. No HOA, with an RV gate! unforgettable gatherings. With an RV gate and no HOA, this property offers both convenience and freedom.
37645 W Padilla Street
Maricopa, AZ 85138
$604,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,652
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6697374
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Introducing luxury living, embrace the opulence of a new home previously exclusive to Scottsdale and the East Valley. Experience the versatility of our Flagstaff plan, featuring the Extra Suite Plus - a dedicated space ideal for multi-generational living! Your gourmet kitchen boasts stacked cabinetry, double ovens, and a gas cooktop. Relax in your spacious Spa Shower, entertain on the patio, or use the FOUR CAR GARAGE for all your toys! With 10ft ceilings, 8ft doors, and 8,750 sq ft homesites, K. Hovnanian Homes stands out! Move in by late summer and start your luxurious lifestyle! ^Up to 6% of Base Price can be applied towards closing cost and/or short-long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.
1291 W Treasure Trail
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$604,990
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,432
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750806
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender plus additional 2% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available to be used toward closing costs, pre-paids, rate buy downs, and/or price adjustments. The Avelino floor plan offers a refined single-story design with four bedrooms, including an AllGen suite, and a spacious flex area ideal for an office, TV room, or study. Featuring front yard landscaping, this home will be ready for occupancy in October or November. Conveniently situated near community parks, grocery stores, and dining options.
32000 N 117th Avenue
Peoria, AZ 85383
$604,990
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,921
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754803
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
It's the Clover with 3 bedrooms + flex space to use as you wish, 2 baths. This home has a large walk-in shower at owner's bath with tile surrounds. Multi slide door that leads out to the covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 36'' cooktop, wall oven and glass canopy hood. Maple linen-off white cabinets with 42'' uppers in kitchen with pull out trash drawers. AZT Steel gray granite in kitchen and much more. Amenity Rich Mystic includes a Resort Style community pool, Rec center with year-round events, Hiking paths & community parks. The perfect location- close to shopping, restaurants, golf, Lake pleasant and the loop 3. Estimated completion April. PHOTOS IN THIS LISTING ARE OF THE CLOVER MODEL HOME.