Are You A Good Tenant?

The factors that make a good tenant can vary, based on the landlord and the individual renter. Few universal characteristics hold true – some pet owners are wonderful tenants; some quiet tenants are asking to be evicted. Since most property owners can’t spend the time to really get to know each applicant, here are a list of the qualities they might watch for when renting out their homes. Find out if you are a desirable tenant, or if your application would raise warning flags.

Are You Employed?

It’s an obvious one. Tenants that are stably and gainfully employed have the best chance of fulfilling a landlord’s number one need: having the rent paid in full and on time. The best tenants will be secure in their employment, and earning enough to comfortably afford the rent – even in the event of unforeseen costs. If you are a student, you will have to show proof of how you intend to pay your rent. Some landlords may prefer a student who has their parents paying rent over a recent graduate with an unstable employment situation.

Are You Single or a Couple?

If you are part of a couple where you are both employed, that means two income streams to rely on to pay the rent. However, having two tenants may increase costs may be included in your rent, such as water and power usage. How long you’ve been together may also factor into the decision. Couples that have been together consistently over a longer period of time are seen as more stable and less likely to have to end their lease due to a break up. For a young couple that is moving in together for the first time, that risk may be perceived to be higher.

Are You A Pet Owner?

While many pet owners like to think their animal would never be any trouble, many landlords simply will not rent to people with pets. For responsible owners with well-trained animals, this is an unfortunate reality. Concerns your prospective landlord might have include damage to the unit, allergy concerns (in shared space), the safety of other tenants in the building, and noise complaints.

No matter what, be honest on your application and with your potential landlord. Lying about having a pet, your need to practice the drums or how many people will be living there will only hurt you in the long run.