I’ m a property investor managing six of my own properties and currently prefer to self-manage. However, I need a system to help me screen tenants more effectively- including checking credit data, verifying IDs, handling deposits, etc. Is there software available that can help streamline this process?
Question
I’ m a property investor managing six of my own properties and currently prefer to self-manage. However, I need a system to help me screen tenants more effectively- including checking credit data, verifying IDs, handling deposits, etc. Is there software available that can help streamline this process?
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Answer from Ross Fitzcharles
Absolutely and you’ re not alone. Many self-managing landlords struggle with tenant screening, yet it’ s one of the most critical steps to protecting your investment.
At Preferental, we’ ve built a smart AI-powered Tenant Screening Solution specifically for this. It allows landlords to assess tenants thoroughly— without needing credit expertise or spending hours on paperwork.
Here’ s how it works:
• You send the applicant a secure link to apply.
• The system pulls credit data from Experian and TPN, verifies their ID with Home Affairs, and checks for court listings or fraud.
• It analyses bank statements to confirm income, detect tampering, and assess affordability.
• Employment is verified directly with SARS.
• All results are compiled into a simple, accurate risk rating to guide your decision confidently.
To make letting even easier, we offer DepositPlus, an optional feature that lets tenants pay their deposit over 10 months, while you receive the full protection from Preferental upfront. It also includes lease cover for death, disability, or retrenchment. In short, yes the right tech can absolutely streamline your process, reduce risk, and still give you full control. Preferental is built to help landlords like you manage smarter.
Ross Fitzcharles is the Founder and CEO of Preferental, and a forward-thinking leader in South Africa’ s PropTech space. Ross has built his career on challenging outdated industry norms and delivering tech-driven solutions that simplify and secure property management. He is a passionate advocate for innovation, focused on transforming the rental experience for landlords and tenants alike.
Got Questions? We’ ve got Answers! Send your queries to info @ rei. co. za
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