Tenant Screening in Tampa Bay
Checking Credit
Good credit signals we’ve found a tenant who is responsible with money, conservative with debt, and careful to pay their bills on time. This is what we want, because it means fewer late payments and a low risk of eviction. We set a credit score threshold, but we dig into the entire credit report, looking for anything that might give us pause.
Income Verification
Can the tenant we place afford to pay rent? That’s the most basic question we’re asking during the screening process. A great credit score is good news, but we need to know your resident’s income can cover the rent every month. We ask for verification, including pay stubs, tax forms, or bank statements. We want to know their income is consistent.
Rental History
At Hoffman Realty, we know that past behavior is the best indicator of future performance. We won’t approve an application with a history of bankruptcies or evictions. We ask for landlord references. We conduct thorough criminal background searches. We want to know what kind of tenant this applicant has been in the past.
Criminal and International Background Checks
Your peace of mind is important to us. That’s why we conduct thorough criminal background checks, including specific screenings for sexual crimes and searches for anyone on the international terrorist watchlist.
Tenant Screening is More Than Checking Credit and Verifying Income.
It’s About Creating Resident Relationships
Hoffman Realty balances tenant service with tenant accountability.
Applications
Our applications are fair housing-friendly and capture all of the information we’ll need to conduct background checks and examine financials.
Communication
Before signing the lease, we’re available to tenants who have questions or need clarification.
Tenant Handbook
We’re always available to our renters, but for a quick question that needs to be answered, they can refer to their Tenant Handbook, which we provide.
Lease Agreements
Once approved, our tenants sign a legally executed Florida Residential Lease, which is both enforceable in Florida and compliant with all state laws. You can view our Sample Lease to see the detailed terms and conditions.
Expectations
Understanding expectations is the best way a tenant can enjoy a peaceful and stress-free rental experience. We share those expectations consistently.
Move-In Inspections
We document the condition of your property before a tenant takes possession, and you can see that video and our notes.
