So, you’re a first time landlord. Congratulations! If you’re completely lost right now, here are some rental resources that I’ve found handy in the past.

The first thing you want to do is get the apartment in shape, set your price and market that baby. Keep in mind that your tenants will only be as good as the apartment. If do a schlock job, you’ll get get schlock tenants. I prefer to present quality accommodations and get market rate or slightly above rather than waiting to see if someone bites on a piece of crap.

Friends of friends or co-workers are always a good place to start spreading the word. They come with references you actually know. If that doesn’t pan out, Craigslist will. It’s the best free advertising you’ll ever get. You can swing for a $125 ad on the NY Times site, but don’t throw that $ away until you know Craigs hasn’t worked.

Whether you’re setting up appointments or having an open house, you’ll want to be prepared to screen your prospective tenants. You can download free rental applications from Legal Forms. Be sure to print out a few of them. You may not go with the first tenant who wants the place.

I always verify employment and get a reference from the previous landlord. It doesn’t hurt to look at W-2’s or pay stubs. Some apartment hunters are already prepared and come with these items in hand.

A credit check runs about $35 and yes, you may charge the tenant for that. Just disclose this up front under “fees” for the apartment. Transunion and Equifax are the two biggies in the credit check industry.

Download a free lease agreement from (once again) Legal Forms. Add as many riders as you feel is necessary. Pets? Smoking? Storage in hallway and basement?

I’ve never once received a lead pamphlet or disclosure from a landlord, but don’t let this stop you. Go to the EPA Lead page and download the booklet and disclosure form. These items should be presented at the time of lease signing.

Any questions?