Most prospective renters will be more than happy to answer your questions. Be cautious if the person seems wary or reluctant to provide the information you're asking for.

After you've determined that the person is a good candidate to rent your property, it's time to meet him in person. There are a few of important principles to remember - read between the lines, take stock of the person's appearance, and don't let your emotions cloud your judgment.

Learn to Read Someone Between the Lines

When you're talking to the prospective tenant, really listen to what they have to say. If the tenant says, "My dog Charlie chewed up my new sofa," or "I just met with my child's teacher and he's in trouble for fighting again!", then you may have trouble brewing on your hands.

First Impressions do Count When Screening Tenants

When it comes to screening tenants, their physical appearance is an important factor to consider. The person does not have to dress like a movie star but what you are looking for is someone who is clean and presentable.

You can also check out his car. Does it seem to be in reasonably good condition? Is the car overloaded with junk inside? Again it doesn't matter how new or expensive the car is; you are looking to see if the person actually takes good care of it.

Why do these factors matter? Someone with a tidy appearance and well kept vehicle is far more likely to take better care of your rental property as well.

Don't Involve Your Emotions When Screening Tenants

When you are screening your potential renters, your emotions and personal feelings should not affect your decision of picking the right tenant. Even if you find the person incredibly charming and sweet, do realize that the nicest people in the world don't always make best tenants.

A wonderfully charming and lovely person could have the most horrible credit history in the world, or a history of defaulting on rent payments. Make it a purely business decision.

Finally, don't let a sob story get to you. As much as you may want to help that single mom who is going through a divorce, if her credit and rental history indicates that she can't pay, don't risk your own financial security. After all, you are not a charity organization; you're a landlord. Teo Zhenjie