We all like to think that we\u2019re good at assessing someone else\u2019s character at the first meeting, but for a landlord this skill is vital. When you take on a new tenant, you\u2019re trusting a stranger with your huge investment. Yes, you\u2019ve got the protection of the law, but that\u2019s something which helps you when problems have already occurred \u2013 it doesn\u2019t stop them happening.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s be honest, when you\u2019re showing the potential tenant around your property, you\u2019re both selling something. You\u2019re selling the space, the location, the furnishings, they\u2019re selling themselves and their ability to pay the rent. Both parties are going to emphasise the good stuff, but you\u2019ve got a lot more to lose. It\u2019s too easy to be fooled by a firm handshake and a reassuring smile. You need more to go on.<\/p>\n
Behind that handshake and smile, there may be skeletons in cupboards: dodgy employment history, court orders and rock-bottom credit scores. To really make a sound judgement you need thorough referencing. You need appropriate questions asked and you need facts that are up-to-date and relevant. You need a reference that digs that bit deeper when it finds an area of concern and one that presents its findings to you clearly and simply, leaving you fully informed to make your final decision.<\/p>\n