Even though you are paying rent to live in an apartment or home, there is still the realization that it is technically still someone else’s house. And since your name is only on a lease, and not on the title of the home, you probably have a landlord or property manager who you are in constant contact with (and who you write your monthly check out to).
But as anyone who has rented a home before knows, creating a pleasant relationship with your landlord is about more than writing a check, though that definitely helps. It can drastically improve your quality of living during the time you are renting the space if both you and your landlord work to have a positive association. While your landlord should be able to trust you, you should be able to trust him as well.
As a managing partner of ASM Properties, a property management company in Tennessee, Jon Selinger explains that when it comes to being the ideal tenant there is a two-step process. If you pass it successfully, you will put your landlord or property manager at ease.
Screening Process: Before you can sign your name to a lease and start hanging the curtains, you will need to pass a screening process. When we look at potential renters, says Selinger, we are looking mainly at three things: that you can afford the rent, that you have a good credit score and that you have a stable job. So, be upfront and honest with your landlord. Don’t apply for an apartment or house if the rent will eat up half of your monthly paycheck or if you know that you will be out of work for an extended period of time. Chances are your shortcomings are going to be brought to light regardless of your attempts to have them passed over, but many landlords are more likely to work with a tenant who honest.
Past Landlords: If you’ve rented before, your past landlords will probably be called on to attest to your reliability. Landlords aren’t asking for a lot, says Selinger. Mainly they are looking for a tenant who won’t damage the home, has proven that he can pay the rent on time and who won’t disturb people in the neighborhood or in your building.
And, after you’ve secured your new home, continue to exemplify the characteristics that landed you the rental in the first place. Prove to your landlord that he made the right choice by handing you the keys.
The bottom line is that if you aren’t attempting to live beyond your means, are respectable of where you live, and can be pay your rent in full and on time, pat yourself on the back-you can probably consider yourself a landlord’s dream.
