Tenant Placement Checklist for Self-Managing Landlords

Before Marketing the Property

☐ Complete all repairs and maintenance
☐ Professionally clean the property
☐ Change locks if needed
☐ Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
☐ Ensure appliances are functioning properly
☐ Take high-quality photos and videos
☐ Determine rental rate based on market conditions
☐ Prepare lease agreement and application forms

Marketing the Property

☐ Create rental listing with photos and property details
☐ Advertise on rental websites and social media
☐ Install yard sign if permitted
☐ Respond promptly to inquiries
☐ Schedule showings

Tenant Screening

☐ Collect completed rental applications
☐ Verify employment and income
☐ Verify current and previous landlord references
☐ Run credit check
☐ Run background check (where legally permitted)
☐ Review debt-to-income ratio
☐ Confirm pets comply with property rules
☐ Apply screening criteria consistently to all applicants

Lease Signing

☐ Select qualified tenant
☐ Collect security deposit
☐ Collect first month's rent
☐ Review lease terms with tenant
☐ Obtain signatures on lease agreement
☐ Provide copies of all signed documents
☐ Transfer utilities if required

Move-In Preparation

☐ Complete move-in inspection report
☐ Photograph property condition
☐ Provide keys, remotes, and access codes
☐ Provide maintenance request procedures
☐ Provide emergency contact information
☐ Confirm renter's insurance requirements

Ongoing Management

☐ Collect rent monthly
☐ Track income and expenses
☐ Respond to maintenance requests
☐ Conduct periodic property inspections
☐ Renew lease or provide notice as required
☐ Maintain records for tax purposes

This checklist helps landlords create a repeatable system for finding quality tenants while avoiding the typical 8–10% annual property management fee.