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Background Checks, Credit Scores, and References: What Actually Matters (And What Doesn’t)

Background Checks, Credit Scores, and References: What Actually Matters (And What Doesn’t)

by Simply Live | Mar 24, 2026 | Credit Scores, Property Management

“Their credit score is only 580, but they have a good explanation.” “The background check shows an old charge from 10 years ago — should I decline?” “Their references all say great things, so I’m approving them.” Here’s the problem: Most landlords either rely too...
Red Flags in Tenant Applications (And How to Spot Them Early)

Red Flags in Tenant Applications (And How to Spot Them Early)

by Simply Live | Mar 17, 2026 | Property Management, Property Management Mistakes

The application looks perfect. Good income. Clean background check. Great references. They’re polite, well-dressed, and ready to sign today. You hand over the keys. Three months later, you’re dealing with late rent, noise complaints, and property damage. The eviction...
Why the 3x Rent Income Rule Protects Your Investment (And What Happens When You Compromise)

Why the 3x Rent Income Rule Protects Your Investment (And What Happens When You Compromise)

by Simply Live | Mar 10, 2026 | Property Management, Rental Income

“Their income is only 2.5x rent, but they seem really responsible.” “They’re $200 short of the 3x requirement, but they have great credit.” “They make 2.8x rent — that’s close enough, right?” Wrong. After 19 years of managing 250 properties in the Lansing area, I can...
Our 4-Step Tenant Screening Process That Delivers 80%+ Retention

Our 4-Step Tenant Screening Process That Delivers 80%+ Retention

by Simply Live | Mar 3, 2026 | Property Management, Verification Screening

Here’s a question that keeps landlords up at night: “How do I know if this applicant will be a good tenant?” You’re looking at an application. Everything looks fine on paper. Good credit score. Steady income. Clean background check. They seem nice. But you’ve been...

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