What's your secret to streamlining tenant screening using technology?

1 Use online applications

One of the easiest ways to streamline your tenant screening is to use online applications instead of paper forms. Online applications are more convenient for both you and your prospective tenants, as they can be filled out and submitted anytime and anywhere. They also reduce the risk of errors, fraud, and lost documents. Plus, online applications can be integrated with other software and platforms that can help you verify, analyze, and compare the information provided by the applicants.

2 Set up screening criteria

Another way to streamline your tenant screening is to set up clear and consistent screening criteria that you can apply to all applicants. Screening criteria are the standards and requirements that you use to evaluate the suitability of a tenant, such as income, credit score, rental history, and background checks. By having screening criteria in place, you can save time and avoid legal issues by filtering out unqualified or problematic applicants. You can also use technology to automate the screening criteria, such as using scoring systems, algorithms, or artificial intelligence.

3 Conduct online background checks

One of the most crucial steps in tenant screening is conducting background checks to verify the identity, criminal history, and eviction records of the applicants. Background checks can help you protect your property, your reputation, and your existing tenants from potential risks and liabilities. However, background checks can also be costly and time-consuming if you do it manually or through third-party services. That's why you should use technology to conduct online background checks that are fast, accurate, and affordable. There are many online platforms and tools that can help you access and review the background information of your applicants in minutes.

4 Request digital documents

Another tip to streamline your tenant screening is to request digital documents from your applicants instead of physical copies. Digital documents are easier to store, access, and share than paper documents, and they can also be verified and authenticated using technology. For example, you can request digital copies of pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, or other proof of income from your applicants, and then use software or apps to scan, validate, and analyze them. You can also request digital copies of IDs, passports, or other proof of identity from your applicants, and then use technology to check their validity and match them with their background information.

5 Communicate via online channels

The last tip to streamline your tenant screening is to communicate with your applicants via online channels instead of phone calls or in-person meetings. Online communication is more efficient and convenient for both you and your applicants, as you can exchange information, ask questions, and provide feedback in real time. You can also use online communication to schedule and conduct virtual tours, interviews, or inspections of your rental units, which can save you time and money. Some of the online channels that you can use are email, text, chat, video call, or social media.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?