Background Screening

For Rental Homes

Tampa Background Screening for Rental Homes

It is critical to make the right decisions when selecting renters for your rental property, as your future depends on predicting the future behavior of your renter.

The Tampa background screening process Hoffman Realty uses is one of the most important steps in ensuring your property has a quality tenant.

Hoffman Realty conducts the most thorough renter background screening of any Professional Property Management company.

Don’t settle for less. Compare our 11-step Background Screening chart below or call us Toll Free at (888)-643-4549.

We distinguish applicant behavior by asking these 4 behavioral questions:

~Are you who you say you are?
~Can this applicant afford to live here?
~Does this applicant have a history of paying their bills?
~Is this applicant a desirable neighbor and trustworthy of the property?

A cement pathway leads to a beige house with Mediterranean styling, near where Hoffman Realty offers their Tampa background screening process

11-Step Background Screening

The Best Predictor of Future Behavior…is Past Behavior

With our Tampa background screening process, we conduct a thorough applicant background check for your investment property.

Behavior Triggers Solution Hoffman Realty Company A Company B
Are you who you say you are? 1. Obtain Government Issued Identification
2. Social Security Number Verification
Can this applicant afford to live here? 3. Income/Employment Verification
4. Credit Report
Does this applicant have a history of paying their bills? 5. Credit Score
6. Review of Landlord and Utility Debt/Bankruptcy/Foreclosure/Tax Liens/Collections/Legal Items
7. National Eviction Search
Is this applicant a desirable neighbor and trustworthy of the property? 8. Prior Landlord Verification
9. National Criminal Search
10. National Sex Offender Search
11. International Terrorist Database Search

REVIEWS

Google
5.0/5
Feb 26, 2026
Google - Lindsay Sullivan - Hoffman Realty LLC
Juan and Shirley were great! Very helpful, responsive, and efficient in their work. Both had a positive attitude. Thankful they were available to help and answer any questions I had.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 27, 2026:
Hi Lindsay,

Thank you so much for your kind review! We are very happy that Juan and Shiley was able to help you! We will make sure to pass along your comments to them!

Kind regards,
Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Feb 26, 2026
Google - Moe - Hoffman Realty LLC
I've utilized their service for the last year and they've been efficient in getting a tenant and treating them and me fairly. I am going to continue to use their service.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 27, 2026:
Hi Moe,

Thank you for your positive review. Hoffman Realty works hard to treat our customers fairly. We are glad we succeeded.

Kind regards,
Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Feb 25, 2026
Google - Cindy Gonzalez - Hoffman Realty LLC
I can not recommend them enough. They have an incredibly friendly and responsive team who are extremely professional in what they do. I have used them for many years and they truly take out the hassle of property rental and give you true peace of mind. The onboarding process was streamlined, their tools are easy to use, and their services are outstanding.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 26, 2026:
Wow, Cindy!!!

Thank you for the fantastic review! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that you were impressed with our friendly and responsive service. Hoffman Realty's team works hard to ensure every customer has an exceptional experience, and it’s wonderful to know we’ve succeeded in doing so for you. Your feedback motivates us to continue delivering the best property management possible.

Thank you, MaryAnn
Google
5.0/5
Feb 17, 2026
Google - MANUEL RODRIGUEZ V - Hoffman Realty LLC
Great job by Nina in our rental needs. She explained the process really well and helped us the whole way. Even after the rent process she keeps contact to make sure all is in working order. Has been an absolute pleasure working with Hoffman Realty. Would not hesitate to go thru them again. Thank you!!!
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 15, 2020:
Hi Manuel, Thank you for your kind words about Nina, MaryAnn
Google
5.0/5
Feb 14, 2026
Google - Mark H - Hoffman Realty LLC
I’ve worked with Hoffman Realty LLC in Tampa for three years, and they’ve been outstanding. Andrew and his team are professional, responsive, and make rental ownership stress-free. Their online portal keeps everything organized and easily accessible. Reliable, efficient, and highly recommended for anyone needing property management.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 15, 2026:
Hi Mark,

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm so happy to hear that you are having a great experience with Hoffman Realty. Our team strives to provide exceptional service, and knowing that we’ve met your expectations truly means a lot to us. We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to serve you.

Kind regards, Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Jan 30, 2026
Google - Mikey Nguyen - Hoffman Realty LLC
The employees at Hoff Reality are amazing! Nina was prompt and very friendly throughout the process, and I am so grateful for her! Same with everyone working at the front desk, they were so sweet every time I interacted with them, even the times when I probably asked TOO many questions (lol). Highly recommend 😊
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 3, 2026:
Hi Mikey, Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled you had a great experience with our team at Hoffman Realty and specifically Nina! MaryAnn
Google
5.0/5
Jan 16, 2026
Google - Chris Richter - Hoffman Realty LLC
So far so good. There is still more work to be done
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 15, 2026:
Hi Chris,

Thank you so much for leaving us a 5-star rating! We truly appreciate your support. If there’s anything specific you enjoyed about your experience or if there’s anything we can do to better serve you, we’d love to hear from you. Your feedback helps us continue to improve!

Thanks again,
MaryAnn
Google
5.0/5
Jan 13, 2026
Google - Brian McMahon - Hoffman Realty LLC
The work was excellent.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 3, 2026:
Thank you for the 5-star rating, Brian. We're delighted you had a positive experience and hope to serve you again soon.
Google
5.0/5
Dec 30, 2025
Google - Jerry Wise - Hoffman Realty LLC
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 3, 2026:
Your 5-star review just made our day, Jerry. Thanks for your support. Feel free to reach out if you need anything. Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Dec 11, 2025
Google - Tu-Sean Phan - Hoffman Realty LLC
This is our first time using a property management company and Nina was very pivotal in serving us. She was very thorough and made the process very easy! Would recommend Hoffman and ask for Nina!!
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a positive review. We’re delighted to hear that our service surpassed your expectations. Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Dec 11, 2025
Google - sandra dixon - Hoffman Realty LLC
I am very pleased with Hoffman Realty management service. They provide seamless and top notch service. They cover every detail and do this in a timely manner. I 💯 percent recommend them Thanks Maryann, Stacy and ALL I would like to update that yes Hoffman Realty to this day CONTINUE to provide stress free and awesome service!! They are super responsive especially NINA who makes herself accessible, courteous and responsive. Keep up the amazing job all !!
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
Thank you Sandra, We enjoy working with you. Maryann
Google
5.0/5
Dec 10, 2025
Google - Rick Frissell - Hoffman Realty LLC
As a retired real estate agent myself, I have had the experience and opportunity to meet and work with some of the best realtors around. Now, on the other side of the relationship, as a client myself, working with Nina has been beyond my expectation.. Her attention to detail, support and professionalism is superb. She is always positive, supportive and efficient. Additionally, from the point of view from my wife Penny, she presents herself from a very personal, warm, friendly, reassuring, and straightforward manner. If a home needs to be sold or leased, Nina will have your back.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
Wow, Rick!!! thank you for the fantastic review! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that you were impressed with our efficient and high-quality service. Our team works hard to ensure every customer has an exceptional experience, and it’s wonderful to know we’ve succeeded in doing so for you. Your feedback motivates us to continue delivering the best experience possible. Thank you, Maryann
Google
5.0/5
Dec 10, 2025
Google - Elizabeth Francois - Hoffman Realty LLC
I recently had the pleasure of working with Nina Ortiz of Hoffman Realty LLC while inquiring about a home I was initially interested in renting. From our first interaction, Nina was personable, professional, and extremely informative. After being with my previous property manager for nearly nine years, I was understandably nervous about making a change. However, Nina made the entire transition seamless. Her clear communication, patience, and attention to detail provided a level of comfort and confidence that I truly appreciated. I am very happy that I chose to move forward, and it is my sincere hope that the excellent experience I had with Nina continues throughout my time with Hoffman Realty LLC.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a positive review. We’re delighted to hear that Nina surpassed your expectations. Providing high-quality service is at the heart of everything we do, and your feedback reassures us that we’re on the right track. We truly appreciate your trust. Should you need any further assistance, please feel free to contact us anytime. Maryann
Google
5.0/5
Dec 10, 2025
Google - Viviana A Melendez-Muniz - Hoffman Realty LLC
Had a great experience looking for information with Nina at Hoffman. Would recommend
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
Thank you for the trust Viviana, we approeciete your business. Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Dec 10, 2025
Google - Tiffany Hernandez. - Hoffman Realty LLC
Hoffman Realty has been really nice to work with. Elianna and Jarred always answer our questions and get repairs done quick!!
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 11, 2025:
Hi Tiffany,

Thank you so much for your kind review! We are very happy that Elianna & Jarred were able to solve all your questions! We are thrilled that repairs are getting sorted quick and efficient. We will make sure to pass along your comments to Jarred & Elianna!

Thank you again, MaryAnn Hoffman
Google
5.0/5
Dec 10, 2025
Google - Paul Moszcienski - Hoffman Realty LLC
Fantastic, management team; quick and responsive to your needs and eager to answer any questions. Nina has been exceptionally helpful throughout the entire process.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
We truly appreciate your kind feedback! It’s always a pleasure to hear when our customers enjoy their experience. Your positive words mean a lot to Nina who works hard to provide the best possible service. Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Dec 10, 2025
Google - neelomie cooper - Hoffman Realty LLC
Nina was wonderful to work with. She stayed on top of everything, communicated clearly, and made sure my client’s concerns were handled quickly.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
Thank you so much for your positive review! We’re so glad to hear that you had a great experience with Nina. Your support means the world. Maryann
Google
5.0/5
Dec 10, 2025
Google - Licensed Realtor, Janet Medrano - Hoffman Realty LLC
Nina did a great job serving my clients with skill and professionalism. As a realtor, I enjoyed working with her and the managment team. I would recommend Nina and I’d be pleased to work with her again.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a wonderful review! We’re thrilled to know you had a great experience with Nina. Your kind words inspire us to keep doing our best every day. Maryann
Google
5.0/5
Dec 10, 2025
Google - Lisa K Jordan - Hoffman Realty LLC
The staff at Hoffman Realty is outstanding. All of them go above and beyond to make sure that their tenants are taken care of. Especially Jarred, he is always on top of every issue, and has excellent communication skills.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 11, 2025:
Hi Lisa! We love working with you all and are thrilled that Jarred has been great to work with! We always want to make sure tenants are happy and taken care of!

We are grateful for your support! MaryAnn
Google
5.0/5
Dec 5, 2025
Google - Connie P - Hoffman Realty LLC
Nina Ortiz helped us get a lease. She was extremely professional and stayed on top of everything. We were really so lucky to have her working with us and we can’t say enough good things about her. You can not go wrong with Nina and Hoffman! Thank you, Nina! Hoffman is lucky to have you on their team!
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
We truly appreciate your kind feedback! It’s always a pleasure to hear when our customers enjoy their experience. Your positive words mean a lot to Nina, who works hard to provide the best possible service. Maryann
Google
5.0/5
Dec 5, 2025
Google - Mileidis Sosa - Hoffman Realty LLC
So happy to find this company. Nina help me through out the process. She is very nice and helpful.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 3, 2026:
Hi Mileidis, Thanks for mentioning Nina! They'll be delighted to know they made your process special. We appreciate you! Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Dec 1, 2025
Google - Anthony santapaga - Hoffman Realty LLC
excellent attention Nina
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Feb 3, 2026:
Hi Anthony,

So happy you loved working with Nina! Our team works hard to take good care of our customers. Thanks for the shoutout!

Thank you again! MaryAnn Hoffman
Google
5.0/5
Nov 26, 2025
Google - Walter Lopez - Hoffman Realty LLC
Always very helpful and attentive. Nina always replies to concerns quickly attentively. Feels like a family rather than a business or corporation.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 12, 2025:
Thank you for your amazing review! We’re so happy to hear that Nina was able to make your experience special. They work hard to ensure every customer feels valued, and we’re thrilled that you noticed their dedication and care. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Nina—it’s feedback like yours that keeps our team motivated. We truly appreciate your support. Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Nov 26, 2025
Google - Wesam Alabed - Hoffman Realty LLC
I had an excellent experience working with Hoffman Realty. Their team is highly professional, responsive, and easy to communicate with. From the first call to the final steps, everything was handled smoothly and clearly. They answered all my questions, followed up promptly, and made the entire process simple and stress-free. I truly appreciate their honesty, organization, and the quality of their service. Highly recommended! A special thank you to Jarred Stanford for his exceptional help.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Dec 11, 2025:
Hi Wesam!

Thank you for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review. We always want to make sure our tenants are heard and taken care of! We love to hear that our team members have been able to solve your questions and provide great service!

Thank you again! Andrew
Google
5.0/5
Nov 23, 2025
Google - josue vega - Hoffman Realty LLC
I'm a US Veteran who founded a handyman business, and Hoffman provided me with the opportunity to collaborate with them. It feels like leaving one family to join another. I especially want to thank Jerred, Nina, and Eliana. You are the reason Hoffman is the best realty company in Tampa. Thanks for always answering your phones. Best regards from your top vendor, ICCj.
Hoffman Realty LLC replied on Nov 24, 2025:
Thanks Josh, we enjoy working with you. You are dependable and have high quality workmanship.

FAQ

What insurance do I need as a Landlord?

For hazard coverage, you will need a “Dwelling Policy” for your house or a “Rented to Others” Rider for your condo. For liability coverage, make sure you have sufficient general liability coverage in your hazard policy or through a separate commercial liability policy.

If you are new to being a landlord, you should consult with your insurance agent to ensure you are properly protected.

How should a landlord hold escrow?

If your tenant gives you a security deposit, or advance rent, these funds must go into escrow. In Florida, it is best to open a separate bank account to hold escrow as the law requires that these funds not be commingled with your personal funds. The law dictates this account should be at a “Florida banking institution” and, if you choose an interest-bearing account, 75% of the interest, or 5% of the funds deposited, must be paid to your tenant.

What is a Stipulation?

A Stipulation is a court-approved Payment Plan for a tenant that has fallen behind on their rent payments to their Landlord. It is a way to avoid completing an eviction for your tenants who are serious about getting caught up.

Should I accept pets?

Almost 80% of renters in the Tampa Bay area have a pet, so landlords that promote a “no pet” policy miss a huge number of potential renters. If you limit the pool of potential renters, it takes longer to rent your property. Allowing the right kind of pets reduces your vacancy losses by ensuring that your property stays occupied and rented.

Should you rent your property furnished or unfurnished?

Typically short-term rentals are offered furnished as they are used for vacation or corporate housing. However, long-term rentals are typically offered unfurnished, because most long-term renters have their own furniture. In our experience, only a very small number of renters are looking for a furnished long-term rental in the Tampa Bay area, so it will take you a long time to find a long-term renter if you only offer your property furnished.

Should I rent my property without a background check?

All landlords want to rent their property to good tenants. The only effective (and legal) way to know if your potential new tenants will be good neighbors and trustworthy of your property is to perform a thorough background check. This should include credit, criminal, sex-offender, income, and prior landlord references. It’s better to leave your property vacant than to rent to the wrong person.

If You’re a Landlord with Questions, We’ve Got Answers

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Check out our free eBook, “Landlord Tips: Making the Most of Your Rental Property.” This eBook will help you:

~Understand how to increase your profits
~Learn how to avoid common landlord pitfalls
~Discover the value a Tampa property manager can bring
~How Landlords Must Hold Escrow
~Earning Positive Cash Flow
~Commanding Top Dollar for Your Rental
~Maintenance and Inspections
~Why You Need Landlord Insurance
~Finding Tenants with Hoffman Realty

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