Leasing & Screening

From setting rent and evaluating applicants to issuing leases and onboarding new tenants, this section offers guidance on every phase of the leasing process. Explore best practices, legal requirements, and compliance tips to help you lease confidently and screen fairly—no matter the size of your property.

Free Resources Policy & Regulatory

VIDEO: Master Online Rental Marketing –Create Listings that Shine
VIDEO: Master Online Rental Marketing –Create Listings that Shine

Learn how to attract more qualified applicants—faster. This hands-on session walks you through Intellirent’s marketing tools to help your listings stand out across dozens of platforms. Whether you're new to online leasing or ready to level up your strategy, this is where to start. Continue Reading

Postedby Kathleen Castro
Date posted08/13/2025


VIDEO: Locking It Down: How to Master New Laws on Security Deposits & Applications
VIDEO: Locking It Down: How to Master New Laws on Security Deposits & Applications

Learn how new state laws impact security deposits and rental applications. This webinar covers key legal changes, compliance tips, and best practices to protect your business and plan your next tenancy with confidence. Presented by BPOA Executive Director, Krista Gulbransen Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted07/31/2025


Everyday Ethics in Property Management: Decisions That Shape Legal Risk
Everyday Ethics in Property Management: Decisions That Shape Legal Risk

Even routine decisions, like accepting a late fee or choosing between applicants, can carry Fair Housing risk. Learn how to spot the ethical red flags that could undermine your credibility or land you in legal trouble. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted07/15/2025


Help! I'm Brand-New to This and Don't Know Where to Start!
Help! I'm Brand-New to This and Don't Know Where to Start!

A beginners guide for Berkeley Rental Housing Providers Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted06/11/2025


BPOA's Application Process Forms: When and How to Use Them
BPOA's Application Process Forms: When and How to Use Them

This article walks you through BPOA’s key forms used during the rental application process, what each one is for, when to use it, and how to stay compliant with California and federal law. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/30/2025


Stick to the Script: Why You Should Never Ask for More Than What's on the BPOA Rental Application
Stick to the Script: Why You Should Never Ask for More Than What's on the BPOA Rental Application

Think asking for a selfie with ID or a link to Instagram helps prevent fraud? Think again. Learn why sticking to BPOA’s standard rental application is not just smart, it’s legally safer. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted05/27/2025


Detecting Deception in Rental Applications: How to Spot Red Flags Before It's Too Late
Detecting Deception in Rental Applications: How to Spot Red Flags Before It's Too Late

In an era of fake pay stubs, spoofed references, and AI-generated documents, screening applicants is more complicated than ever. Learn how to identify common red flags and protect yourself from costly mistakes. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted05/23/2025


Charging Screening Fees in 2025: California's New Rules Under Civil Code 1950.6
Charging Screening Fees in 2025: California's New Rules Under Civil Code 1950.6

New rules under AB 2493 require California landlords to follow one of two approved screening processes—and issue refunds, receipts, and disclosures accordingly. Learn how to stay compliant under Civil Code § 1950.6. Continue Reading

Postedby Tiffany Van Buren
Date posted05/23/2025


Leasing Logistics: When to Use BPOA's Offer to Rent, Start Dates, and Prorated Rent
Leasing Logistics: When to Use BPOA's Offer to Rent, Start Dates, and Prorated Rent

This article tackles some common leasing questions Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/19/2025


VIDEO: College Student Rentals: Legal Issues for Landlords, Renters,and Guarantors
VIDEO: College Student Rentals: Legal Issues for Landlords, Renters,and Guarantors

If you missed the livestream on May 8th, don’t miss the playback. Clifford Fried, leading landlord-tenant attorney and partner at Fried, Williams Grice Conner LLP, guides BPOA members through key issues in college student rentals. A must-watch for any housing provider who rents to students! Continue Reading

Postedby Clifford Fried
Date posted05/15/2025


Exercising The Auto-Renewal Clause in the BPOA Lease
Exercising The Auto-Renewal Clause in the BPOA Lease

Including an auto-renewal clause in a Berkeley lease is legal, but only if you follow very specific rules under Berkeley Municipal Code Chapter 13.79. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/6/2025


How to Review Intellirent Renter Resumes and Evaluate Applications
How to Review Intellirent Renter Resumes and Evaluate Applications

A step-by-step guide to reviewing Intellirent Renter Resumes, applying screening criteria, and selecting a qualified tenant while staying compliant with state and local laws. Continue Reading

Postedby BPOA Master
Date posted05/3/2025