One tried and true technique for checking on someone is to ask for personal references and to call these references. Ask for at least three names. Ask them lots of questions.
When investigating a potential tenant, these are some questions you may want to consider asking the personal references:
- How long have you known the tenant, and in what capacity?
- Can you confirm the tenant’s employment status and income?
- How would you describe the tenant’s personality and character?
- Has the tenant ever had any issues paying rent or caused any problems as a tenant?
- Did the tenant take care of the property and report maintenance issues promptly?
- Was the tenant respectful of the neighbors and community?
- Did the tenant provide proper notice before moving out and leave the property in good condition?
- Would you recommend the tenant as a reliable and responsible tenant to another landlord?
When checking references for a potential employee, here are some questions you may want to consider asking their personal references:
- How long have you known the potential employee, and in what capacity?
- Can you describe the potential employee’s work habits, including their strengths and weaknesses?
- Did the potential employee work well with others and collaborate effectively?
- Can you provide an example of a difficult situation the potential employee faced at work and how they handled it?
- Was the potential employee reliable and punctual?
- Can you confirm the potential employee’s stated job title and responsibilities?
- Did the potential employee leave their previous job on good terms?
- Would you rehire the potential employee, and why or why not?
When checking references for a potential business partner, here are some questions you may want to consider asking their personal reference:
- How long have you known the potential business partner, and in what capacity?
- Can you describe the potential business partner’s work ethic and professional approach?
- Did the potential business partner demonstrate strong leadership skills and decision-making ability?
- Can you provide an example of a project or business deal the potential business partner was involved in and their role in its success?
- Was the potential business partner reliable and responsive in communication and follow-through?
- Can you confirm the potential business partner’s areas of expertise and experience in their industry?
- Did the potential business partner leave their previous business partnerships on good terms?
- Would you recommend the potential business partner as a trustworthy and effective partner, and why or why not?
Remember to approach each reference with an open mind and to verify the information you receive to the best of your ability. It’s also important to respect the privacy of the tenant and their references throughout the process.
