When you screen an applicant , on any kind of housing, you are looking for the ability to pay and any behavior problems.
A tenant paying on time, but is a behavior problem, is not good.
A tenant with great behavior, not paying, is not good
Credit reports will give you some aspect of finances, outstanding debt obligations, etc., But not behavior. And not evictions!
Reviewing credit reports on Sect. 8, one should look for financial obligations beyond affordability.. Like a new car purchase for $100k+,etc. Which would show income of "unreported source".
A landlord may give you a false behavior reference to get rid of their problem.
I would ask false questions in doing landlord references like ...
The applicant said they paid $600. I would ask if they could reference the applicant paid $700, and if the landlord gave a positive, I assumed we were talking to a relative.
Eviction records are public record. I owned a company that recorded every eviction record as they were filed. In San Francisco alone, 12,000/year.
So, if an applicant gave a phony landlord reference, we knew they were being evicted, from where and by whom.
Ask your screening company from where they get their data.
Trust not your applicants.
As a result of the above, I have been a very successful landlord.
A desirable neighborhood. A fair rent. Good screening and great relations and support. Is the success key.
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Gary
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