Having clear criteria, written criteria on which to base your renting decisions, and then asking prospective tenants a standard set of questions to ensure they meet these criteria, will make your tenant selection process transparent, predictable, and fact-based. Make sure your criteria and your questions comply with fair housing laws by not including any prohibited or discriminatory questions in your application process. Take time to familiarize yourself with fair housing laws, such as this useful guide published by Zillow.com as you can be held accountable for not running a compliant rental business.