As you look for houses for rent and apartments for rent Dallas TX, you may have realized that landlords are very selective about who gets to rent a property from them. But do you know what exactly landlords find to be a risk? Getting this right can minimise the risk of being cast as a “risky tenant” and boost your chances of moving into your next home.
Whether you’re using a broker or going the apartment hunting route alone, you need to know what would be a red flag for landlords. In this post, we’ll break down the common risks landlords look for and, most importantly, how you can avoid looking like one.
1. Unstable Income or Employment
Why it’s a risk: Landlords want assurance that you can pay rent on time. A patchy job history or fluctuating income raises concerns, whether you’re renting or looking at homes for sale Dallas TX.
How to avoid it:
- Share recent bank statements or pay stubs.
- If self-employed, furnish tax returns or contracts.
- Briefly describe any gaps in employment.
2. Bad Credit History
Why it’s a risk: A low credit score is associated with missed payments or irresponsibility with finances.
How to avoid it:
- Obtain copy of your report and research to determine if you can correct any errors.
- Pay off existing debts or at least lower them.
- Attach a short letter describing any previous problems, such as medical bills or short-term setbacks.
- If your credit is weak, consider offering a larger security deposit or a co-signer.
3. Previous Evictions or Rental Issues
Why it’s a risk: Landlords fear that tenants with past evictions might cause trouble again.
How to prevent it:
- Be honest about any prior evictions and provide a calm explanation for why it happened.
- Have compelling references from your previous landlords who can speak about your current behavior.
- Show evidence of rent payments on time in your most recent rental.
4. Incomplete or Inaccurate Applications
Why it’s a risk: Errors or omissions can lead the landlords question your honesty or attention to detail.
How to avoid it:
- Carefully fill out your rental application and look for errors.
- Submit any documentation they ask for such as IDs, income verification, references.
- Be consistent with information across different documents.
5. Unclear or Suspicious Rental History
Why it’s a risk: Landlords like to see a strong rental history. Gaps or moving often can make you seem unreliable, especially when you are seeking to houses for rent in Dallas TX.
How to prevent it:
- Document any spaces of vacant rental history.
- If you are renting for the first time, use employer references or personal references.
- Provide evidence of long-term rentals when possible.
6. Lack of communication or bad attitude
Why it’s a risk: Landlords want tenants who communicate quickly and respectfully. Poor communication can indicate potential problems in the future.
How to avoid it:
- Respond quickly to the landlord or their agent, or property manager either through their email or telephone calls.
- Be polite and respectful to the landlord and there real estate agent or property manager.
- Show interest in the property.
7. Too many pets, or damage concerns
Why it is risky: Pets cause damage and often, landlords have strict policies on pets in their properties.
Tips to Avoid it:
- Disclose your pets upfront and provide references from previous landlords about pet behavior.
- Offer to pay a pet deposit or show proof of pet insurance.
- Keep pets well-groomed and under control during any property visits.
8. Financial Instability Beyond Income
Why it’s a risk: Landlords sometimes consider overall financial stability, including debts and other obligations.
How to avoid it:
- Don’t apply for more than one property at a time – it just looks desperate.
- Keep your financial paperwork sorted and easily available to help you review the documents.
- Demonstrate responsible money management wherever possible.
Bonus Tips
If you are thinking of purchasing rather than leasing, having a good real estate agent Dallas TX to represent you can lead you to the ideal location without going through the frustration of rental uncertainty. In the process of purchasing a property, you will find that it is not just helpful to be organized and knowledgeable about the business, it will also make the process simpler once you are ready to buy.
Final Thoughts
Landlords want more than just your application – they want to be sure you will be a good tenant. If you maintain a steady income, you are honest about your history, and you are polite, you can avoid many pitfalls along the way.
When you’re ready to buy, Christopher Vierthaler with North Texas Luxury Living is the expert you need for condos for sale Dallas TX. His service and inside knowledge ensures that you will have a stress-free experience with the buying process.
Contact Chris today at (214) 430-8844, or email chris@northtexasluxuryliving.com to begin your dream home journey!