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

15428 S 24th Street Phoenix, AZ 85048

$590,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,817 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757496

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully REMODELED home on HUGE corner lot in Ahwatukee. Gorgeous backyard with mountain views. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths plus Den/4th bedroom. Located in the popular Mountain Park Ranch community. This home boasts all new cabinets and granite countertops throughout, new flooring, new window screens, and professionally landscaped backyard with gazebo. Home comes with a ''NEW FULL ROOF'' that is only 4 years old and ''NEW Carrier A/C'' unit installed just 2 years ago! Also included are ALL APPLIANCES including both refrigerators. Inside garage are custom built in cabinets for plenty of storage and a separate side entrance.

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1314 E Bluefield Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85022

$590,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,014 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764348

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move in before the Holidays! Looking for a 4 bedroom home with a pool in North Phoenix? Welcome home to this very private home on a corner lot with mountain views. The inviting curb appeal brings you into the living room where you can entertain year round. Watch the kids play in the family room while cooking up a meal in your remodeled kitchen which has an island for bar seating and stainless steel appliances. Upstairs is a spacious master suite and 3 good sized bedrooms. Outside--YES. Enjoy a drink on the covered patio. Watch your favorite pooch run around in the grass....AND enjoy a dip in the relaxing pool all while getting a view of the mountain that is next door 🙂 All this in North Phoenix in an ideal location on a private street.

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1441 W Canary Way Chandler, AZ 85286

$590,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,954 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760689

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a peaceful retreat situated on a corner lot in Clemente Ranch. This home has almost 2000ft of space including 3 bedrooms plus a den and a bonus area connected to the master suite- perfect for a nursery, workout space or meditation room. Updated bathrooms and kitchen bring a modern feel to the inside of the home. The large covered patio provides a great place for entertaining. Mature trees and plants in the backyard provides a tranquil setting for the Koi pond and water feature. A custom made ramada and bench creates another setting for enjoying shade and peacefulness in the middle of the city. Other major updates include a new roof, HVAC and water heater in recent years.

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18624 W Lawrence Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$590,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,722 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6709554

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Better than new! Start enjoying your own private resort the day you take possession rather than waiting to find landscapers and pool companies, then suffer months through the noise, dust, and dirt of a new build... Just step right out into your own private oasis with pool, waterfall, fire pit, and a spacious, covered travertine patio. Facing north, there's no intense Arizona sunlight directly shining on you during the day, making for very pleasant occasions for coffee in the morning, or dinner with family or friends in the evening. The home is loaded with luxury-level finishes, giving you the sense of ease and sophistication, with 5 generous sized Bedrooms/3 Full Baths. Also $10K Seller Concessions available towards Buyer's Closing Costs, Rate Buy-Down with Full Price Offer.

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20964 E Cherrywood Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$590,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,105 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765668

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BEAUTIFUL home located in the highly desired community of Hastings Farms, this 2105 sq ft4 bed/2.5 bath home features plenty of new updates! Home features a sprawling open floor plan, neutral beautiful paint throughout, gorgeous plank style flooring, GORGEOUS kitchen with island and dining area. On one of the largest lot in Hastings Farms, home has a GORGEOUS Crystal Blue fenced Pool, spacious yard, fire pit and covered patio, this yard is perfect for entertaining!

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10114 W Cashman Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$590,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,682 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6687084

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

10114 W Cashman Dr, Peoria, AZ 85383 - REDUCED!! Pride of ownership in The Meadows, do not miss this beautiful home built in 2019 with all of the upgrades, 4 bedrooms all upstairs (1 is guest suite with private bath), Granite countertops, Gourmet stainless steel appliances with gas cooktop, large island and nice size pantry, tile backsplash, extensive wood plank tile flooring, custom window coverings, extended master shower with rain showerhead, oversized garage, water softener, Alarm system, low maintenance backyard, kids playset, nice corner lot, Community pool & hot tub, Pickle Ball Court, clubhouse, volleyball & basketball courts and other features. Easy access to Loop 303, less than 20 minutes to new Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Plant.

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819 N Alison Way Chandler, AZ 85226

$590,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,328 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6731749

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Say Hello to relaxation and convenience awaits in this updated turn-key East coast vibe townhome. Moments from shopping and dining and less than a mile from I-10, this contemporary, 3-bedroom, 3-bath home with no pool or yard to maintain, offers hassle-free living. Entertainment options abound in the kitchen & great room, where floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto the balcony offer breathtaking sunset views. Adjoining the living area are two guest bedrooms and a hall bath. The third-floor primary suite boasts a spacious private balcony & resort-style bathroom with a luxurious spa-like shower. A ground-floor bonus room with walk-out patio features a ping pong table and patio seating, ideal for game night or entertaining. Fully updated and most furniture available on separate B.O.S

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19233 W Coolidge Street Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

Open House

$590,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,649 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715943

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Welcome to Your New Home!** This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of luxury and functionality, featuring a full apartment casita with its own private entrance, ideal for guests, extended family or rental income. Highlights include: - **Spacious Main House:** Open floor plan with a bright and airy living space, modern kitchen, and elegant finishes throughout. - **Private Apartment Casita:** Self-contained unit with a living area, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, perfect for extended family or rental potential. - **3-Car Garage:** Ample space for vehicles, storage, and hobbies. - **Completed Backyard:** Beautifully landscaped for relaxation and entertainment. - **Installed Solar Panels:** Enjoy significant savings on your energy bills and contribute to a greener planet. Located close to top-rated schools, shopping, and recreational facilities, this home offers convenience and comfort in one package. Don't miss out on this rare find! Contact us today to schedule a viewing and make this exceptional property yours.

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22456 E Via Del Verde -- Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Open House

$590,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,202 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767389

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Hidden gem with 2 dens (home office!) plus the 3 BR's, private pool, tons of garage storage, driveway extension, easy maintenance yard, & gourmet kitchen! The resort style pool has a Baja shelf to relax, travertine, & turf next to the oversized covered patio. Inside has beautiful modern tile, KitchenAid SS appliances, large pantry w/ custom door, 42'' staggered cabinets, & granite eat in island. The large primary has an ensuite with 2 sinks + walk-in shower. Guests will love the Jack-&-Jill bathroom with separate door to shower/tub for privacy. The huge laundry room w/ cabinets has plenty of room for 2nd frig or freezer. Epoxy garage w/ H20 Softener & cabinets is a dream! Exterior painted in 2020. You'll love the community w/ parks, trails, pool, splash pad, garden, volleyball, & more!

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16048 W Mercer Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

Open House

$590,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,451 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715329

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out the Great Curb Appeal at this Nice 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 3451 sq. ft., 3 car garage home in Greer Ranch South, Surprise, AZ. New carpeting and interior paint. Low maintenance front yard leads you to the front door. Vaulted ceilings and large rooms greet your entry to this home along with a spacious open eat-in kitchen granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances and ample cabinet space. Looking for a formal dining space? Found! Relax and hide in the Great Room downstairs or the spacious upstairs Media Room. Large Primary Suite with a large walk in closet, private bath with separate shower and tub. The backyard includes a covered patio and a pool to keep you cool. This could be your next ''New To You'' home.

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21263 W Sycamore Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$589,999

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,903 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775817

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully designed 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located in the heart of Buckeye's highly sought after Verrado community. This home features an inviting open floor plan with soaring ceilings and plenty of natural light. The gourmet kitchen is perfect for the modern chef, offering granite countertops, matching appliances, a large island, and plenty of cabinet space. It flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, making it perfect for entertaining. Step outside to enjoy the beautifully landscaped large low maintenance backyard, complete with a covered patio, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxing. Situated in the vibrant Verrado community, you'll have access to incredible amenities such as parks, community pools and spa, children's playground, walking trails, golf courses, and a bustling Main Street with shops and restaurants that is walking distance from the property! Top-rated schools and easy access to major freeways make this location unbeatable! Don't miss out on the chance to live in this highly desirable neighborhood! Buyers currently living in Maricopa or Pinal County ask about an ADDITIONAL $7,000 home buyer credit available via the Community Promise Program. Rate Relief Rebate Program: Benefit from a 2% seller credit to reduce your mortgage payments by Approximately $591/month in year 1 and $303/month in year 2. This exclusive offer makes homeownership more affordable now, while you await potential rate decreases.

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9410 W Meadowbrook Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85037

$589,999

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,585 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6729781

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Don't miss out on this beautiful single-level home with a certified Energy Star rating of 5!** This newer property boasts delightful curb appeal with an easy-care landscape and a tandem 3-car garage, situated in a gated community. **Step inside to find:** - An inviting hallway leading to a perfectly flowing great room with high ceilings, recessed lighting, and sliding glass doors that open to the backyard. - Gorgeous wood-look porcelain flooring and a neutral palette throughout, creating a warm and modern atmosphere. **Chef's Kitchen:** - Handsome wood cabinets with crown molding - Stainless steel appliances - Pantry and Quartz counters - Stylish tile backsplash - Large island with a breakfast bar, perfect for casual dining and entertaining **Main Retreat:** - Sun-filled room with an immaculate ensuite featuring two vanities, his and hers walk-in closets, a private toilet room, and engineered flooring. **Additional Features:** - Second ensuite with a walk-in closet and private living area, ideal for guest privacy. - Each bedroom has its own dedicated bathroom, ensuring comfort and convenience for all. **Outdoor Living:** - Relax in the vast backyard with a covered patio, pavers, and low-maintenance turf, perfect for outdoor gatherings and relaxation. **Prime Location:** - Minutes away from Westgate, Glendale Stadium, and the soon-to-be-built water parks and hotels, making it an ideal property for Airbnb. **This home is the perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Own the home meant for you!** Come view today!

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