A great landlord-tenant relationship starts with a positive first impression. The traditional application process, with its endless fees and repetitive paperwork, often creates friction before a lease is even signed. What if you could offer a smoother, fairer experience that also benefits you? That’s the idea behind portable tenant screening. Renters pay for one report they can reuse, saving them money and hassle, while you get instant access to comprehensive, verified information at no cost. This win-win approach attracts serious, qualified applicants. To make this work, you need the best portable tenant screening service that specifically meets local mandates like the Colorado PTSR law. Whether you are a renter wondering how to get a portable tenant screening report or a landlord needing a Colorado portable tenant screening report, choosing the right provider is key. We’ll explore what makes a service great for both you and your future tenants.
Choosing a portable tenant screening service isn't just about finding the cheapest option. It's about finding a reliable partner that gives you accurate information, keeps you compliant, and makes the rental process smoother for everyone involved. A great service provides a clear, comprehensive picture of an applicant while protecting their sensitive data. As you compare your options, focus on three key areas: the core features of the report, the company's commitment to security and legal compliance, and a pricing structure that is fair and transparent.
A quality portable tenant screening report should be your go-to resource for making informed decisions. At a minimum, it needs to provide a complete overview of an applicant's background. This includes a detailed credit report, a nationwide criminal history check, and a thorough eviction history. Think of it as a complete rental resume that an applicant can securely share with you. The best services compile this information into a single, easy-to-read report that you can trust. This allows you to quickly assess an applicant's reliability and financial responsibility without having to piece together information from multiple sources. A truly portable report is designed to be reused, saving everyone time and effort.
When you're handling someone's personal information, there's no room for error. Staying compliant with federal and state laws, like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), is non-negotiable. A reputable screening service will ensure its reports meet all legal standards, protecting you from potential fines and legal trouble. It's also your responsibility to verify that the report you receive is authentic and hasn't been altered. Top-tier services build in verification measures to confirm the report's legitimacy. For renters, data security is paramount. Look for a service that uses bank-level security and gives applicants control over who sees their data and for how long, ensuring their information is always protected. Landlords need a process they can trust to be both secure and compliant.
The traditional model of paying separate application fees for every apartment is quickly becoming outdated. A major benefit of portable screening reports is the fair and transparent pricing structure. Renters pay a single fee for a comprehensive report that they can reuse for multiple applications within a certain timeframe, usually 30 days. This saves them a significant amount of money and widens their housing options. For landlords, this model can attract a larger pool of qualified applicants who are tired of fee-stacking. In states with portable screening laws, you are required to accept these reports and cannot charge an additional application fee. A clear pricing page with no hidden costs is a sign of a trustworthy service. If you are a landlord in the Centennial State, make sure you are following the Colorado Landlord's Guide to Portable Tenant Reports to avoid compliance penalties.
Finding the right tenant screening service can feel like a huge task, but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a landlord. The right service gives you a clear picture of your applicant, ensures you’re following the law, and makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved. From comprehensive reports backed by major credit bureaus to all-in-one property management platforms, there’s a tool out there that fits your specific needs. Let’s walk through some of the best options available so you can find the perfect match for your rental business.
Portable Tenant is built around the idea of a single, reusable report that renters can share with multiple landlords. Because this model saves everyone time and money, it is considered the tenant screening service model of the future. For landlords, you get a comprehensive, Experian-powered screening report that covers all the bases: credit history, nationwide criminal and eviction records, and income verification. The platform is designed with compliance at its core, specifically engineered to be a PTSP compliant tenant screening solution. It is the top choice for a portable tenant screening report in Colorado, ensuring landlords meet HB23-1099 requirements while providing tenants with an Experian-backed report they can reuse for 30 days. What really sets it apart is the control it gives renters over their own data, which builds trust from the very beginning. It’s a modern, efficient approach that simplifies applications and helps you fill vacancies attracting qualified tenants faster. Before you start, it helps to see what a professional report looks like by viewing a portable tenant screening sample to understand the data depth provided.
SmartMove is a powerhouse for data, but it is important to note it is not a 'native' portable service. While it provides the best tenant screening reports for one-off checks, tenants cannot easily 'carry' a SmartMove report to a different platform. For landlords in states requiring PTSR acceptance, you may need to manually invite the tenant, which can slow down the portable rental application process.
RentPrep offers a unique advantage: it uses certified screeners to compile its reports. This human touch helps ensure the data you receive is accurate and reliable, reducing the chance of errors that automated systems might miss. They offer several screening packages that include everything from credit checks to nationwide criminal and eviction histories. Landlords who are particularly concerned about the accuracy of their reports often turn to RentPrep for that extra layer of verification. It’s a solid option if you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing a professional has reviewed your applicant’s information.
If you’re looking for more than just a screening service, TenantCloud might be the right fit. It’s a comprehensive property management platform that includes tenant screening as part of its suite of tools. The screening report provides a full overview of an applicant, including their financial and rental history, to give you a clear picture of who you’re renting to. Because it’s integrated into a larger system, it can streamline your entire workflow, from application to rent collection. This is a great choice for landlords who want an all-in-one solution to manage their properties efficiently.
MyRental, another service from a major housing data provider (CoreLogic), offers a few standout features that simplify the decision-making process. It provides a proprietary Tenant Score, which assesses an applicant's risk level at a glance. The platform also checks criminal records across numerous states and offers a convenient tenant-pay option, which can reduce your upfront costs. MyRental is designed for landlords who appreciate data-driven insights and want a straightforward way to gauge an applicant’s reliability. The combination of a risk score and detailed reports makes it a popular choice for making quick yet informed decisions.
Avail is another all-in-one platform designed for DIY landlords, and its screening process has a particularly helpful feature: automated reference checks. In addition to providing standard credit, background, and eviction reports, Avail automatically contacts an applicant's previous landlords for references. This saves you a significant amount of time and effort during the verification stage. By handling this crucial step for you, Avail helps you get a more complete and thorough understanding of your applicant’s rental history. It’s an excellent option for landlords who want to make their screening process as efficient as possible.
Designed for speed and convenience, TurboTenant is a great tool for landlords who want to fill vacancies quickly. It’s part of an all-in-one property management toolkit that includes fast tenant screening with credit reports, debt payment history, and income verification. The platform is user-friendly and aims to simplify every step of the rental process, from listing your property to signing the lease. If you’re an independent landlord looking for a free or low-cost solution that helps you manage your properties and screen applicants efficiently, TurboTenant is definitely worth a look.
Not all tenant screening reports are created equal and not all PTSR reporting companies are compliant with Colorado law. A basic check might give you a credit score and nothing else, leaving you with an incomplete picture of your applicant. To make a truly informed decision, you need a comprehensive report that covers all the bases. The best services bundle everything you need into one easy-to-read package, giving you a clear, 360-degree view of who you’re renting to. Let’s break down the key features that separate a quality screening report from the rest.
For renters, the process is simple:
A credit score is a helpful starting point, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. A thorough credit report allows you to see an applicant's full financial history, including their payment patterns, total debt, and any major red flags like bankruptcies or accounts in collections. A Portable Tenant Screening Report is essentially a credit and background check that renters can share with multiple landlords. This gives you a solid understanding of their financial responsibility and helps you gauge their ability to consistently pay rent on time.
A reliable criminal background check is crucial for ensuring the safety of your property and your community. A quality report will scan multiple databases, including national, state, and county records, as well as sex offender registries and terrorist watchlists. These checks cover essential details like credit history, criminal background, and rental history. When reviewing this information, it’s vital to follow all Fair Housing Act guidelines to ensure your decision-making process is fair, consistent, and legally compliant for every applicant.
Past rental behavior is one of the strongest indicators of a future tenant's reliability. An eviction history search will show you if an applicant has ever been legally ordered to vacate a property for non-payment or other lease violations. This is a non-negotiable piece of the puzzle. A tenant screening report should provide a clear and full picture of the applicant’s background, giving landlords and property managers the insight needed to protect their investment and avoid costly and stressful eviction proceedings down the road. Understanding the nuances of the law is vital; read our breakdown of the Tenant Screening Reform in Colorado for the latest legislative updates.
At the end of the day, you need to know if your applicant can afford the rent. Income and employment verification confirms that an applicant is currently employed and has a steady income sufficient to cover their monthly payments. Most landlords look for an income that is at least three times the rent. A comprehensive portable report must include the applicant’s income and employment details, saving you the time and effort of manually verifying pay stubs and calling employers. This feature streamlines the process and helps you quickly confirm an applicant’s financial stability.
The best screening service in the world won’t do you much good if the report is impossible to read or access. A modern screening platform should have a clean, intuitive interface that you and your applicants can easily use on any device—phone, tablet, or desktop. Portable tenant screening reports are transforming the rental process by making it faster and more efficient. A user-friendly design shows that the company values your time, which often means you can expect a smoother experience and better customer support.
Figuring out the cost of tenant screening can feel a bit like a guessing game, but it doesn't have to be. The price you'll pay depends entirely on how deep you want to go. A basic check will give you a quick snapshot, while a more comprehensive report provides the full picture you need to make a confident decision. The good news is that there are transparent options available that fit different needs and budgets, whether you're a landlord screening your first applicant or a renter applying to multiple places. Let's break down what you can expect to pay and what you get for your money.
In the $25 to $40 range, you’ll typically find basic screening packages. These services are designed to give you a fundamental overview of an applicant. Most will include a credit report with a credit score and a nationwide criminal background check. While this is a solid starting point, it often leaves out crucial details like eviction history or income verification.
Think of a basic package as the first layer of screening. It’s a cost-effective way to quickly filter applications, but it may not provide the depth needed to fully assess an applicant’s reliability. For landlords who want more assurance, a more detailed report is usually the better investment.
For a more complete understanding of an applicant, you’ll want a comprehensive report, which usually costs between $40 and $75. This is where you get the full story. A Portable Tenant Screening Report at this price point typically includes everything from the basic package plus much more. You can expect to see a detailed credit report, a nationwide criminal and eviction history, and often income verification.
This level of detail helps you confirm that an applicant has a history of paying on time and taking care of previous rentals. It’s the kind of thorough check that protects your investment and gives you peace of mind, ensuring you have a reliable tenant moving into your property.
Traditionally, landlords could choose to pay for screening themselves or pass the cost on to the applicant. This often meant renters had to pay separate application and screening fees for every single property they were interested in, which adds up quickly.
However, the model is changing for the better. With portable reports, the applicant pays a one-time fee for a comprehensive report they can share with multiple landlords. This approach saves everyone time and money. As a landlord, you get a high-quality, verified report at no cost to you, and the applicant has a more affordable and efficient rental journey. It’s a win-win that simplifies the entire process for landlords and property managers.
When choosing a screening service, always look for transparent pricing. Some services advertise a low initial price but then add on fees for essential checks like eviction history or income verification. These hidden costs can be frustrating for both you and your applicants. It’s important to find a service that offers a clear, all-inclusive price from the start.
Also, be aware of local laws. In states like Colorado, Illinois, California, Maryland, and Washington, landlords must accept a reusable report from a prospective tenant and cannot charge them an application fee. Choosing a compliant service not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also fosters a more trusting and transparent relationship with your future tenants. If you have questions, a good service will have a help center to guide you.
Choosing a tenant screening service isn't just about getting a report; it's about finding a partner that fits your workflow, budget, and needs. Each service comes with its own set of strengths and potential drawbacks. Some excel at providing incredibly detailed, human-verified data, while others prioritize speed and seamless integration with your existing tools. It’s important to look past the marketing and understand how each platform actually functions. Think about what matters most to you. Is it the most accurate background check possible, even if it costs a bit more? Or is it a fast, user-friendly experience that works with the software you already use? Considering these trade-offs will help you find the right fit for your properties.
Let's break down what some of the top services do best. TransUnion SmartMove is a popular choice because the reports come directly from a major credit bureau, which adds a layer of trust. It also offers a unique ResidentScore that’s designed to be better at predicting evictions than a standard credit score. On the other hand, Avail shines with its all-in-one rental management tools, including automated landlord reference checks. However, some landlords find its interface isn't as straightforward as other options. For those who prioritize accuracy above all, RentPrep uses human reviewers to ensure its background checks are top-notch, but this hands-on approach can come with a higher price tag.
Compatibility is a huge factor if you already use property management software to keep things organized. You want a screening service that plays well with your existing system, not one that creates extra work. Many modern platforms are built with this in mind. For example, services like TenantCloud are designed to support portable tenant screening reports, allowing applicants to reuse a single report for multiple applications but come with a hefty monthly fee. Similarly, a service like TurboTenant claims offering portable screening directly its platform but the outcome is a PDF, which does not comply with PTSR laws in multiple states. Before you commit, always check if a screening service integrates with the tools you rely on every day.
When you have a vacant property, time is money. You need screening reports that are both fast and reliable. Many services, including SmartMove, can deliver reports the same day, which is a huge plus. The process is usually simple: you invite the applicant, they fill out their information, and you get the report back quickly. This is where portable reports really change the game. Because the tenant already has a verified report ready to go, the tenant onboarding process becomes almost instant. This efficiency doesn't just save you time; it creates a better, less stressful experience for your potential tenants, helping you secure the best applicants before they find another place.
Choosing a tenant screening service goes far beyond just getting a credit score and a background check. You're also choosing a partner to help you handle some of the most sensitive aspects of your business: legal compliance and data security. The rental world is governed by a complex web of federal, state, and local laws, and a misstep can be costly. The best screening services don’t just hand you a report; they build compliance directly into their process, making it easier for you to make fair, informed, and legally sound decisions.
From the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to local portable screening report regulations, these rules are designed to protect both you and your applicants. A quality service ensures the data is accurate, handled securely, and used appropriately. It also helps you maintain a consistent screening process for every applicant, which is your best defense against accusations of discrimination. As you compare services, look closely at how they talk about compliance. Do they provide resources for landlords? Are they transparent about their data security measures? This commitment to legal and data protection is a non-negotiable feature that safeguards your rental business for the long run.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is the federal law that sets the rules for how consumer information is collected and used in reports. Every legitimate tenant screening service must be FCRA compliant. This means they have strict procedures to ensure the information they provide is accurate and up-to-date. But the responsibility doesn’t stop with them. As a landlord, you also have obligations under the FCRA. For example, if you decide to deny an applicant based on information in their screening report, you must provide them with an adverse action notice. A good screening service will often provide templates and guidance to help you meet these requirements correctly.
The rental landscape is always changing, and many states are now passing laws related to portable tenant screening reports (PTSRs). States like Colorado, Washington, and California have specific rules that allow renters to purchase one comprehensive screening report and reuse it for multiple applications, usually within a 30-day window. If you own property in one of these states, you are legally required to notify applicants that you accept PTSRs. You also cannot charge an application fee to a prospective tenant who provides their own valid report. Understanding how it works in your state is crucial, so choose a service that is knowledgeable about these evolving local laws.
Tenant screening involves incredibly sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers, credit history, and income details. Protecting this data is paramount. Look for services that use bank-level encryption and have clear privacy policies. A critical feature of modern screening services is giving applicants control over their own data. Instead of you collecting and storing their information, the applicant can authorize the service to share their report directly with you. This not only reduces your liability but also builds trust. Top-tier services also have methods for you to validate that the report is authentic and hasn't been altered, ensuring the information you receive is trustworthy.
The federal Fair Housing Act makes it illegal to discriminate against tenants based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin. A standardized screening process is one of your most powerful tools for ensuring you treat every applicant fairly and consistently. By using a compliant third-party screening service, you establish objective criteria for all potential tenants. This helps you make decisions based on financial and historical data rather than personal feelings or unconscious bias. A reliable screening report provides the factual information you need to confidently choose the most qualified applicant while adhering to Fair Housing laws.
Screening tenants is your first line of defense in protecting your property and ensuring a steady rental income. But in the rush to fill a vacancy, it’s easy to make a few common missteps that can lead to problem tenants, legal trouble, and lost revenue. The good news is that these mistakes are entirely avoidable once you know what to look for. A solid screening process isn't about being difficult or creating hoops for applicants to jump through; it's about being thorough, consistent, and fair to find the right fit for your property. It helps you look beyond the application and see the full picture of a potential renter, giving you peace of mind that you've made the best possible choice.
By refining your process, you can confidently choose reliable tenants while staying compliant. Let’s walk through four of the most frequent—and costly—tenant screening mistakes and how you can steer clear of them. From overlooking crucial details in an applicant's past to misunderstanding your legal obligations, these errors can turn a promising tenancy into a nightmare. Making a few small adjustments can save you major headaches down the road and help you build a portfolio of great renters who pay on time and take care of your property. A great screening service can automate much of this, but understanding the pitfalls yourself is key to making the final call.
It’s tempting to focus on income and credit, but an applicant's rental history tells a story that numbers alone can't. This is where you learn if they paid rent on time, respected the property, and followed the lease terms. Skipping this step means you’re missing out on the most direct predictor of future behavior. A quick call to a previous landlord can reveal red flags like late payments, property damage, or lease violations. A comprehensive screening report should make this easy by providing landlord references, but it's always a good idea to personally verify the information to ensure you’re getting the full picture before making a final decision.
A basic background check might only scratch the surface. To truly understand who you’re renting to, you need a comprehensive report that includes nationwide criminal and eviction records. A limited check might miss an eviction filed in another state or fail to uncover a relevant criminal history. Relying on incomplete data is a gamble that can put your property and other tenants at risk. A thorough screening process gives you a complete view of an applicant’s past, allowing you to assess potential risks accurately and make an informed, responsible choice. It’s about protecting your investment and ensuring a safe community for everyone.
A high credit score is a great sign, but it isn't the whole story. Someone might have a stellar score but a recent eviction hiding in their rental history. On the other hand, a lower score could be due to medical debt or a past financial hardship, even if they’ve never missed a rent payment. Making a decision based solely on this one number means you could overlook an otherwise perfect tenant or accept someone who looks good on paper but has a poor rental track record. Always look at the credit score in context with their income, rental history, and overall financial habits to get a more holistic view of their reliability.
Landlord-tenant laws can be complex and vary significantly by state and even city. A major mistake is not staying up-to-date on these regulations, especially those related to fair housing and how you can use background checks in your decisions. For example, some areas have specific rules about considering criminal records or require you to accept a portable screening report. Overlooking these laws, even accidentally, can lead to discrimination claims and expensive legal battles. Always familiarize yourself with the Fair Housing Act and your local ordinances to ensure your screening process is both effective and fully compliant.
If you’ve been a landlord for a while, you’re probably used to the old way of doing things: an applicant comes along, you charge them an application fee, and you run your own background and credit check. This process has been the standard for decades, but it’s slow, expensive for applicants, and creates a lot of repetitive work.
Portable tenant screening reports are changing the game by flipping the script. Instead of you running a new report on every single applicant, the renter purchases one comprehensive, reusable report from a trusted provider and shares it with multiple landlords. This simple shift makes the entire rental process faster, fairer, and more efficient for everyone involved. Let’s break down the key differences.
With traditional screening, every application starts a new, manual process. You collect a fee, get consent, and run a report. If you have five great applicants for one property, you’re doing that five times. It’s a time-consuming cycle that can slow down your ability to fill vacancies.
A portable report streamlines everything. Because the applicant already has their verified report ready to go, they can share it with you instantly. This means you can review their information and make a decision in a fraction of the time. Instead of waiting days for a report to process, you get the data you need right away, helping you secure a great tenant before they find another place.
Application fees can be a major hurdle for renters, especially in competitive markets. When they have to pay $50 or more for every apartment they apply to, the costs add up fast. This can discourage well-qualified tenants from even applying to your property.
Portable reports solve this by letting tenants pay one fee for a report they can use multiple times within a 30-day window. This saves them a significant amount of money and removes a major point of friction in the application process. For you, this means a wider pool of serious applicants who aren't put off by extra fees. It creates a more positive experience from the start and shows that you’re a modern, considerate landlord.
Portable tenant screening reports are generated by trusted, third-party companies that pull data directly from sources like Experian. These reports are comprehensive, covering all the essentials: credit history, nationwide criminal background checks, and eviction records. This ensures you receive consistent, accurate, and verified information every time.
Unlike traditional methods where the quality of the report can vary, a standardized portable report gives you a clear, complete picture of each applicant. You can confidently compare candidates knowing the data is reliable and compliant with industry standards. This level of accuracy is crucial for making informed decisions and protecting your investment.
In the past, renters rarely saw the information being reported about them. Portable screening puts them in the driver's seat. They purchase their own report, so they see exactly what you see. This transparency builds trust and allows them to correct any potential errors before they even apply.
This model also gives tenants control over their personal data—they choose who to share their report with and can revoke access at any time. For landlords, this is a huge plus. It means you’re working with an informed applicant and are automatically aligned with modern data privacy expectations and fair housing laws. It sets a positive tone for the entire landlord-tenant relationship, right from the very beginning.
Picking the right tenant screening service can feel like a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. The best choice really comes down to your specific needs, your budget, and how many properties you manage. Whether you’re a first-time landlord with a single-family home or a seasoned property manager with a growing portfolio, there’s a solution that fits your workflow. The key is to find a service that gives you the comprehensive information you need to make a confident decision without creating extra work for you or your potential tenants. Let’s break down what to look for based on your situation.
When you’re managing just one or a few properties, you need a screening service that is simple, reliable, and cost-effective. You likely don’t need a complex software suite with features you’ll never use. Instead, look for straightforward, pay-per-use options that let you order reports only when you have a vacancy. This approach saves you from paying monthly subscription fees for a service you might only need once or twice a year. A service that offers comprehensive, easy-to-read reports covering credit, criminal, and eviction history is ideal. Focus on platforms with transparent pay-per-report models that give you everything you need without a long-term commitment.
Managing a larger portfolio means you’re juggling multiple applications, leases, and tenant communications at once. Efficiency is your best friend. Many screening services are built into larger property management platforms that also handle rent collection, maintenance requests, and lease signing. If you already use management software, check for integrations. If you don't, consider an all-in-one solution. Your goal is to find a scalable system that can handle a higher volume of applicants. A service that offers portable reports can significantly streamline your application process, allowing you to review pre-screened, qualified applicants faster and fill vacancies with less administrative hassle.
Finding the best value isn’t just about finding the lowest price—it’s about getting the most accurate and complete picture of an applicant for a fair cost while compatible with your state's laws. A quality screening service provides detailed background checks with instructions to the tenant on how to get a portable tenant screening report. that give you confidence in your decision. This is where [portable tenant screening reports](portable tenant screening report) really shine. They make the entire process more efficient and affordable for both you and your applicants. Because the tenant pays for one report they can share multiple times, you attract serious applicants and reduce screening costs. Understanding how a reusable report works can show you just how much time and money you can save while still getting Experian-backed, comprehensive data.
When you’re comparing services, it helps to have a checklist. Look for a platform that ticks all the right boxes to ensure you’re getting a complete and compliant report.
Here’s what to confirm before you commit:
As a landlord, am I required to accept a portable tenant screening report? This depends entirely on where your property is located. In states with portable screening laws, like Colorado and Illinois, you are legally required to accept a valid, reusable report from a prospective tenant. In other areas, it's your choice, but accepting them can give you access to a wider pool of qualified applicants who appreciate the modern, cost-effective process. See our portable tenant screening report sample.
How can I be sure the report a renter gives me is authentic and hasn't been altered? This is a valid concern, and reputable services have a system to prevent fraud. A legitimate portable report is not just a PDF that an applicant emails you. Instead, the screening service provides a secure way for you to access the report directly from their platform. This ensures the information comes straight from the source and has not been tampered with, giving you confidence in its accuracy.
What's the real benefit of a portable report if my old screening method works fine? The biggest benefits are speed and access to more applicants. The traditional process of charging every applicant a fee can discourage great tenants from applying, especially in a competitive market. By accepting a portable report, you remove that financial barrier. You get a comprehensive, verified report at no cost to you, and you can fill your vacancy much faster because the applicant already has their information ready to share.
If a renter provides a portable report, can I still charge them an application fee? In states with laws governing portable reports, you cannot charge an application fee if a renter provides their own valid report. The purpose of these laws is to reduce the financial burden on renters who are applying to multiple properties. This creates a fairer and more transparent process for everyone and helps you build a positive relationship with potential tenants from the very beginning.
What should I do if an applicant looks great but has a low credit score on their report? A credit score is just one piece of the puzzle, and it doesn't always tell the whole story. A comprehensive report allows you to see the details behind the number. Look for the reasons for the low score—it could be from past medical debt or student loans rather than irresponsible financial behavior. Pay closer attention to their income verification and rental history, as these are often much stronger indicators of whether they will be a reliable tenant who pays on time.