EP356 Mastering Tenant Screening and Landlord Advocacy with Kayla Andrade

A Canadian Investing in the U.S. with Glen Sutherland

Kayla Andrade emphasizes the importance of landlords staying informed and advocating for policy changes to better support the housing industry in Ontario. She encourages collaboration with elected officials and industry experts to address issues like tenant accountability and affordable housing. Tenant Screening and Rent Reporting: Tenant screening is crucial to avoid problematic tenants. Kayla advises landlords to: Conduct their own long-form credit checks (e.g., through Equifax). Match tenant application details with credit data to identify discrepancies. Avoid accepting credit reports directly from tenants, as these can be falsified. Monthly rent reporting is a valuable tool that benefits both landlords and tenants: It helps tenants build their credit with on-time payments. It acts as a deterrent for tenants who might not pay rent consistently, ensuring accountability. Challenges in the Housing Sector: Kayla highlights systemic issues such as shelters being overcrowded, reliance on motels as housing, and the use of shipping containers for accommodations. These reflect broader problems in addressing housing needs effectively. Advocacy as a Solution: Kayla encourages landlords to become professional and customer-service-oriented while protecting their investments. She calls for more government support for landlord education and policy reform to address current challenges. Kayla herself provides one-on-one consultations, educational resources, and runs the Ontario Landlord Watch Facebook group to support landlords. Personal Insights: Kayla shares her own experiences, such as dealing with tenants who split up and the importance of setting clear expectations upfront. She mentions her reluctance to enter politics due to personal commitments but remains focused on helping landlords through advocacy and education. Call to Action: Landlords should join advocacy groups like Ontario Landlord Watch and stay informed about policy changes. Collaboration and proactive efforts are needed to create a better housing environment for both landlords and tenants.