Every landlord has their image of the ideal tenant. With recent statistics from the English Housing Survey now showing that 4.5m households now rent from private landlords – a harmonious relationship between both parties is the only way to ensure a long-term, mutually beneficial tenancy. But what qualities make the perfect tenant, and how do landlords go about choosing tenants?
How Do Landlords Choose Tenants?
In a recent study performed by Intus Lettings on the tenant vetting process, 500 landlords were asked to reveal what type of person makes their perfect tenant. According to the poll, the majority of landlords would prefer a couple with no children, with 29% of landlords stating they would prefer to rent to that demographic.
The second favourite type of tenants is single, young professionals, with 1 in four landlords preferring them as a tenant, followed by parents and children, who were favoured by 20% of the surveyed landlords.
Despite representing a lucrative market for landlords willing to invest time and money, the least popular type of tenant was students, with only 1% favouring their demographic.
The study also prompted landlords to specify what aspect of the tenant vetting process will usually persuade them towards signing up a tenant. The majority of respondents (40%) agreed that a good reference was likely to persuade them to agree to a tenancy, followed by the attitude and manner of the prospective tenant during the viewing. The age and marital status of the tenants proved to be the least important factor when it came to how landlords choose tenants.
When it comes to the biggest landlord fears and frustrations, costly damage to their property and furniture were the primary concerns, with failure to pay the rent on time coming in second. So, when choosing tenants, landlords will want to find applicants with a good track record for keeping properties in pristine condition. As such, make sure you secure a gleaming tenant reference.
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FAQs
Not only does a good tenant pay the rent on time, but they also take care of day-to-day maintenance issues like pulling the weeds, or changing the filters. Additionally, a responsible tenant will alert you to potential issues that need your attention such as a water leak.
What do you say to convince a landlord to rent to you? ›
For example, you can offer to prepay rent, put down a larger security deposit, carry renters' insurance, have the rental professionally cleaned when you move out, or sign a long-term lease. If you have the financial means, you could even offer to pay a higher monthly rent.
What makes you stand out to a landlord? ›
Before renting to you, landlords want to see that you have creditworthiness. If you have a history of late payments or a large amount of existing debt, it may lower your chances of being approved. So, consider your current credit report and make sure you're ready to share your credit history with a potential landlord.
What do you say to a good tenant? ›
We genuinely appreciate your prompt and regular rent payments over the past months. It truly makes a difference in our ability to manage and maintain the property effectively. Your diligence in making timely payments reflects your respect for our agreement and underscores your integrity as a tenant.
How do you attract high quality tenants? ›
How Landlords Can Attract High-Quality Tenants
- Maintain the Property. ...
- Competitive Pricing. ...
- Actively Screen Tenants. ...
- Establish Strong Communication. ...
- Offer Flexibility. ...
- Provide Amenities.
Great tenants are what keep you in this business. They pay rent on time, get along with neighbors, and take care of your property. They respect the lease and respond to your communications. Great tenants will help you maintain stable cash flows, save money on repairs, and avoid all kinds of headaches.
What not to say to a landlord? ›
5 Things You Should Never Say When Renting an Apartment
- 'I hate my current landlord' Every potential landlord is going to ask why you're moving. ...
- 'Let me ask you one more question' ...
- 'I can't wait to get a puppy' ...
- 'My partner works right up the street' ...
- 'I move all the time'
Crafting a Compelling Letter to Impress a Potential Landlord
- #1 Introduction and Personalization. ...
- #2 Brief Self-Introduction. ...
- #3 Highlight Financial Stability. ...
- #4 Emphasize Clean Rental History. ...
- #5 Communicate Long-Term Commitment. ...
- #6 Respectful and Professional Tone. ...
- Negative Comments About Previous Landlords.
Dear (Landlord name), My name is (Your name), and I'm writing to you to express my interest in the home at (address or property name). I would love to live in this place because (reasons you want to rent the property). I currently am a tenant at (current address) but am ready to move because (reason for moving).
What are landlords biggest fears? ›
Disruptive tenants, unpaid rent, and property damage are common fears for landlords.
Rest assured there are no privacy laws limiting what a landlord can or can't disclose about a previous tenant. You can say anything you wish. However, our advice is to stick to the facts and only give information that you can support with written proof so that your former tenants won't accuse you of slander.
What are two things you can do to be an ideal candidate on a rental application and tenant? ›
Since your decision should be based on how well this applicant will protect your investment, you should base your decision on financial factors such as an applicant's income, job stability, and credit score. You can also look at criminal background, prior landlord references, and rental history.
How can I make my landlord happy? ›
Keep your landlord happy by following your lease agreement in full, and ensuring that anyone living on the property is there with your landlord's permission. Having an uninvited guest stay permanently (without your landlord's permission) is a sure-fire way to damage your relationship with your landlord.
What makes you a great tenant letter? ›
Sample Renter Reference Letter
___________ follows the rules of the property and has always paid his residential fees on time and in full. ____________ is quiet and especially considerate of other's needs to privacy and peaceful enjoyment of their residence.
How do you respond to a rude tenant? ›
Best Practices for How to Deal with Terrible Tenants
- Be calm, objective, and rational.
- Keep written records of everything.
- Teach tenants how they should treat you.
- Try to get your tenants on your side.
- Ask the terrible tenants to leave.
- Begin the eviction process.
- Hire a property manager.
Respectful Behavior
Pay rent on time. Follow lease terms. Refrain from causing problems with other tenants or neighbors. Keep from damaging your property beyond normal wear and tear.
What do you say about yourself as a tenant? ›
Responsible and Reliable: “As a tenant, I pride myself on being highly responsible and reliable. I always pay my rent on time and take care of the property as if it were my own. You can count on me to be a respectful and trustworthy tenant.”
What do you say when interested in an apartment sample? ›
My name is and I am very interested in renting the apartment you have available at . I currently live at and have lived there for years. I am looking for a new place to live because . I really like your apartment because .
