What Really Happens Behind the Scenes When We Select a Tenant
What Really Happens Behind the Scenes When We Select a Tenant
(And Why It Matters for Your Investment)
For many landlords, the most stressful part of renting out a property isn’t the advertising.
It’s the question that follows:
“How do I know the right tenant is being chosen?”
At @ Real Estate, tenant selection isn’t a quick skim of applications.
It’s a structured, compliant, detailed process backed by checklists, legislation knowledge, and genuine care.
Because your property isn’t just a rental.
It’s a valuable asset — and often part of your retirement plan.
Let’s walk you through what actually happens behind the scenes.
Step 1: Before We Even Advertise
Before your property goes live, we don’t just upload photos and wait.
We speak with you about:
- Your long-term plans for the property
- Your expectations
- Your timeline
- Any specific considerations about the home
Every property is different.
Some investors plan to move back in one day.
Some are focused on maximising yield.
Some prioritise stability and long-term tenancies.
While we always operate strictly within Queensland tenancy and anti-discrimination legislation, understanding your goals helps us assess applications carefully and responsibly.
Step 2: Structured & Compliant Applications
All applications are received through our secure online portal.
Under Queensland legislation, we can only request specific information — and we adhere strictly to these requirements.
Applicants provide:
- Verified identification (within legal guidelines)
- Employment information
- Income details
- Rental history
- References
We cannot request more than legislation allows.
Compliance is non-negotiable.
Step 3: Detailed Screening & Cross-Checking
This is where our systems and checklists come into play.
Every application is assessed against our structured Tenant Application Checklist, ensuring nothing is missed.
We verify:
✔ Rental History
- Contacting previous property managers
- Requesting rental ledgers
- Confirming payment consistency
- Reviewing tenancy conduct
Agency references tend to provide more structured documentation, but private rental references are carefully verified as well.
✔ Employment & Income Stability
We confirm:
- Ongoing employment
- Income level
- Affordability relative to rent
We assess sustainability — not just “can they pay first week’s rent,” but “is this affordable long term?”
✔ Identity & Documentation
All identification and documentation is verified in accordance with legislation.
✔ Additional Due Diligence
Where lawful and appropriate, we may conduct additional reasonable checks.
Sometimes, something as simple as verifying details or confirming contact points prevents future problems.
These small, proactive steps protect your asset.
Step 4: Shortlisting with Transparency
Once screened, we don’t just send you a name and say “approve?”
We present:
- A shortlist of suitable applicants
- A summary of strengths
- Any considerations
- Rental affordability overview
- Reference feedback
If requested, we provide professional insight.
However, the final selection always remains with the property owner.
Our role is to equip you with clear, structured information to make a confident decision.
What Makes a Strong Tenant?
There is no “perfect profile,” and we never assess based on personal characteristics.
However, strong applications typically show:
- Stable income
- Complete and accurate documentation
- Positive rental history
- Clear communication
- Organised and timely responses
Often, how someone applies tells us a lot about how they may manage their tenancy.
Why Our Process Matters
Poor tenant selection can lead to:
- Arrears
- Property damage
- Stress
- Tribunal matters
- Insurance claims
Thorough tenant selection significantly reduces risk.
Our structured systems, checklists, compliance knowledge, and proactive verification are designed to:
✔ Protect your rental income
✔ Reduce vacancy
✔ Minimise risk
✔ Support long-term stability
✔ Protect your asset value
And importantly…
Our team genuinely cares.
We are not simply processing applications.
We are safeguarding investments.
The @ Real Estate Difference
There are agencies that “place tenants.”
And then there are agencies that:
- Follow structured screening systems
- Operate strictly within legislation
- Communicate clearly with owners
- Present detailed shortlists
- Conduct real due diligence
- Care about long-term outcomes
We are proud to be the latter.
Because good property management isn’t reactive.
It’s proactive, compliant, and detailed.
If you’re considering changing property managers, or you simply want to understand how your current property is being protected, we’re always happy to have a confidential conversation.
Your Capricorn Coast Agency
Ready when you are 💚