One of the main responsibilities of landlords and property managers is tenant screening. First, you’ll want to review a prospective tenant’s rental application, then begin the screening process. However, doing this manually can take up a lot of your time. As such, many landlords or property managers opt to streamline the process with online applications and tenant screening. Luckily, several apps and software can help you find qualified tenants quickly and efficiently. Read along to learn more about online applications and tenant screening and which programs work best for your business.
Contents of This Article:
- Should You Offer Online Applications and Tenant Screening?
- Benefits of Online Applications and Tenant Screening
- How to Screen Tenants Efficiently Using Software
- Property Management Apps With Online Applications and Tenant Screening
- Streamline Rental Property Management With BMG
Should You Offer Online Applications and Tenant Screening?
These days, almost everything can be done online. In fact, most people turn to the internet for numerous daily tasks. Whether you’re buying merchandise, creating a grocery order, or applying for housing–you can do all of these things online. As such, it only makes sense for landlords and property managers to offer online applications and tenant screening.
Applying for rental housing online makes it easier and more accessible for prospective tenants. Additionally, there are several benefits for landlords and property management companies in Philadelphia. Next, we’ll go over some of the main reasons both landlords and tenants can benefit from online applications and tenant screening.
Benefits of Online Applications and Tenant Screening
Online software for rental applications and tenant screening is a simple, efficient way to find qualified renters. As such, there are several benefits for landlords and property managers to consider. Here are some of the top benefits of online applications and tenant screening.
- Convenience
- Find Qualified Tenants
- Faster Responses
- Enhanced Security
- Wider Tenant Pool
Convenience
Using software for rental applications and tenant screening makes the process more convenient for everyone involved. For instance, prospective tenants can apply from the comfort of their homes anytime, eliminating the need for physical visits to the property or landlord’s office. Also, landlords and property managers can efficiently manage and review applications online without requiring manual paperwork.
Find Qualified Tenants
Online screening tools can help landlords assess prospective tenants more efficiently. They can check credit history, rental history, and criminal background quickly and efficiently with just a few buttons. In turn, it can lead to better-informed decisions and finding qualified tenants.
Faster Responses
The online rental application process saves time for both landlords and applicants. Traditional paper applications can be time-consuming to fill out and process, leading to delays in communication between landlords and prospective tenants.
However, since online applications and tenant screening are automated, landlords can quickly review applications and make decisions more efficiently. In turn, landlords can fill vacancies faster and give tenants timely responses about their application status.
Enhanced Security
Giving out sensitive information online can be risky. However, online applications and tenant screening systems usually have built-in security measures to protect sensitive applicant data. This can help prevent identity theft and data breaches, giving applicants more confidence in providing sensitive or personal information online.
Wider Tenant Pool
By offering online rental applications, landlords can attract applicants from different locations, including those who cannot apply in person. In turn, this widens the pool of potential tenants and increases the chances of finding qualified, suitable renters.
How to Screen Tenants Efficiently Using Software
Screening tenants efficiently using the software can significantly streamline the process and help landlords find the most qualified renters. However, there are important steps to accurately and efficiently screen and choose great tenants. Here are some tips for screening tenants using property management software.
Choose a Reliable Software
Start by selecting a reputable tenant screening software or property management platform that offers comprehensive screening features. So, look for software that includes background checks, credit checks, rental history verification, and other relevant screening tools.
Create a Rental Application
Create and implement an online rental application that prospective tenants can fill out using the software you choose. This will allow potential tenants to apply easily from any location, and you can collect all the necessary information digitally.
Verify All Documents
Most rental property software has features for automated document verification. As such, tenants can submit essential documents like proof of income, identification, and references directly through the property management platform.
Conduct Credit Checks
Use the rental screening software’s credit check feature to evaluate the applicant’s credit history. For instance, look for a good credit score and assess their financial responsibility based on their credit report.
Check Their Rental History
Verify the applicant’s rental history through the property management software you choose. Additionally, contact previous landlords or property managers to gather insights into the applicant’s rental behavior, like payment history and property maintenance.
Verify Their Income
Ensure that the applicant has sufficient income to cover the rent. Usually, you can use property management software to verify their income through pay stubs, employment verification, or bank statements.
Run a Background Check
Perform a criminal background check using the software to identify any criminal history that could be a potential risk to your property or other tenants.
Ensure Manual Oversight
Although the software you choose may automate much of the screening process, reviewing the results and performing some manual oversight is still essential. You’ll want to consider any special circumstances or explanations given by the applicant.
Property Management Apps With Online Applications and Tenant Screening
If you’re looking for a reliable way to create rental applications and screen tenants online, there are several property management apps and software to consider. Here are some of the most popular management tools for landlords and property managers.
Each of these property management tools offers several beneficial features for landlords and property managers. For instance, they all offer online applications, tenant screening, lease tracking, accounting, document management, maintenance management, and so much more. So, if you’re looking for a comprehensive app to manage your rental business from anywhere, consider one of the tools above.
Streamline Rental Property Management With BMG
Offering online applications and tenant screening is an excellent way to streamline the rental process. After all, finding and screening qualified tenants is a major part of owning and managing rental properties. So, if you can make the process more efficient with online applications and property management software, landlords can save a significant amount of time.
Learn How You Can Benefit From Property Management!
Another excellent strategy for streamlining rental processes is hiring professional property management. A full-service team, like Bay Property Management Group, can help you with every step of the rental process. We offer comprehensive rental management services, from tenant screening to rental maintenance, rent collection, and more. Contact BMG today to learn about our services throughout Baltimore, Philadelphia, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC.
