According to the official website of the Los Angeles City Controller, the LA Housing Department (LAHD) received 166,433 eviction notices from February 2023 to November 17, 2024. Most (94%) were for non-payment of rent, with the average unpaid or owed rent totaling nearly $4,000.
As an LA landlord yourself, filing an eviction should be your last resort and, as much as possible, something you should minimize your risks of. Comprehensive tenant screening is a strategy that can help you achieve this goal.
In this guide, our team of rental property management experts at PMI County Line will discuss why you should consider outsourcing your tenant background check and screening processes to the pros.
Expert Knowledge and Access to Necessary Resources
Professionals aim to find you high-quality tenants who are most likely to pay rent on time and fulfill the conditions of the lease agreement. To achieve this goal, tenant screening experts perform rigorous background checks. They look into and thoroughly review each rental applicant's:
- Credit score and credit report
- Income sources
- Employment status
- Rental history
- Criminal records
Each of the above requires a different process. So, doing everything yourself could be too complex, especially if this is your first time being a landlord.
On the other hand, experts already have the knowledge and skills necessary to complete all those checks. They also use technology to their advantage, streamlining the process and speeding things up while ensuring they cover all the bases.
Financial Benefits
While some landlords may hesitate to invest in outsourcing services, it's crucial to consider the potential long-term financial benefits of doing so. Hiring a professional tenant screening service can save you money related to:
- Eviction costs
- Legal fees
- Property maintenance and repair due to neglect or damage caused by irresponsible tenants
Outsourcing can become an investment that pays for itself as it can help prevent problematic situations before they develop.
Legal Compliance
As crucial as comprehensive tenant screening is, it has many legal complexities.
For starters, there are many California fair housing laws. Violating them can result in landlords facing hefty fines and lawsuits. A property management company can help protect you from such, as they'll ensure all screenings comply with legal regulations.
Better Community
Getting the right tenant in LA can improve property values and enhance tenant-community relations. Tenants who adhere to community guidelines and contribute positively affect an area's overall dynamics.
So, by outsourcing tenant screening, you can:
- Protect your property
- Safeguard your income
- Enjoy a more successful landlord experience
- Contribute to a more harmonious neighborhood
Outsourcing Tenant Screening Benefits Landlords
The decision to outsource your tenant screening process is undoubtedly a worthwhile consideration. Investing in expert services can lead to better tenants, reduced issues, and growth in property values. So, with the help of a property management company in Los Angeles, CA, you can support your success in the rental market.
PMI County Line is proud to provide high-quality, full-service rental property management solutions to landlords and renters in LA, including tenant placement. Our owner and president, Jim Kuiphof, is a highly experienced business owner with over 20 years of real estate and property management expertise.
Start your journey to success today by contacting us for a free consultation!
