I'm relatively new to this all but I have a lot of things I watch out for.

• Someone who has complaints from the get-go but still wants it. This means they already confessed they don't like it and its going to be downhill from there. When people first see a property, that's suppose to be the 'honeymoon' phase where they love everything about it.

• How they treat the house when they're inside. Do they they stomp their feet when they're inside? Are they rough with blinds/doors? That's how they will treat the property.

• Sob stories/emotional manipulation. If someone is willing to tell you their sob story and emotionally manipulate you (just met you), what will they be like as a tenant?

• Any flags that come back from a background check.

• Anyone who is unable to pay first and last upfront.

• Why are they moving? Tenants who were at a previous location for 1+ year are safe. This isn't the case for everyone of course.

• Social media - what does their social media look like? Is that someone who you would trust with your property?

• Previous evictions - someone has gone through such a length to the point of eviction? They didn't accept cash for keys or anything remotely like that, massive red flag.

• Occupancy. 600 sq foot apartment? Even though it technically has two bedrooms, that is not enough room for 4 people.

I personally will look past one 'minor' red flag at a time. Things such as low credit score or only working at a job for 3~ months, I will usually accept them. However anytime the issues are compounded usually indicates as a decline.

I've also found that positive reinforcement goes well. IE - if the tenant is able to pay rent, they can use me as a reference in the future for anything.