How to Screen Tenants in Cedar Rapids, IA…
Screening prospective tenants is easy with RealSerious.com. Submit each applicant’s name and email, and we’ll secure their consent to deliver a detailed credit report along with a multi-state criminal background check.
No monthly fees – pay as you go.
Data-Driven Decisions for Landlords
From historic neighborhoods like Wellington Heights to modern apartments near the Downtown District and family-friendly homes in College Community, RealSerious.com’s tenant screening services give landlords the tools they need to make confident, data-driven decisions.
Target Applicants Across Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids offers a range of rental opportunities, including suburban developments, historic homes, and centrally located apartments. RealSerious.com delivers solutions that help identify renters more likely to meet lease obligations.
Popular Areas and Communities
Downtown: Ideal for young professionals and tenants looking for proximity to entertainment, business centers, and dining.
Wellington Heights: Known for historic homes with unique architecture, perfect for families or long-term tenants.
Czech Village/New Bohemia: A vibrant area featuring trendy housing, attracting artists, students, and young renters.
College Community: Located near schools, this area is popular with families and long-term renters.
Northwest Cedar Rapids: A suburban area with newer developments, ideal for tenants seeking spacious single-family homes.
Marion: Just outside Cedar Rapids, Marion offers a quieter lifestyle with access to parks and schools.
What Data is Provided in Your Standard Service?
Our reports provide detailed insights to help improve your chances of selecting renters who are more likely to fulfill lease agreements. This often includes the following, where available:
• Credit Score & Factors (ResidentScore®)
• Reported Addresses & Employment
• Credit Card & Loan Payments
• Ch 7 & 13 Bankruptcy Remarks
• Returned Check Collection Accts
• Unpaid Utility & Landlord Collections
• Foreclosures & Repossessions
• Multi-State Criminal Records*
• National Sex Offender Registry
• Global Sanctions
See a sample report.
Fast Turnaround Times: More often than not, screening reports are delivered instantly after the applicant’s identity is verified. In some cases, results may take 1–2 days due to local jurisdiction delays or name match reviews.
*DISCLAIMER: No tenant criminal background check is 100% complete. Coverage for our standard tenant screening report may vary due to (1) jurisdictions limiting what records are eligible to return and (2) TransUnion and/or its partners limiting records that do not meet their data quality standards. Learn more about tenant criminal records.
Cedar Rapids Landlord FAQs
If you have a question, contact us. Note: For specific landlord-tenant legal matters, please consult an attorney or local authority.
Are landlords allowed to charge application fees?
As far we know, there’ no local restriction, but it’s recommended to keep any upfront fees reasonable.
Is it legal to base a decision on an renter’s criminal record?
Yes, landlords can include criminal background checks as part of tenant screening. However, landlords must ensure compliance with fair housing laws and avoid discriminatory practices. Learn more through the Iowa Civil Rights Commission.
Cedar Rapids Landlord Resources
Below are links to help within your local area. For statewide information, visit the Iowa tenant screening page.
Linn County Courthouse
51 3rd Ave Bridge, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
https://www.iowacourts.gov/iowa-courts/district-court/judicial-district-6/district/6/county/linn
Filing information for evictions and other landlord-tenant disputes.
Cedar Rapids Rental Housing Inspections
Phone: 319-286-5197
Ensures rental properties comply with local housing and safety standards.
Cedar Rapids Area Association of REALTORS®
Offers training, and networking for real estate professionals and property managers.
Cedar Rapids Section 8 Handbook
https://cms8.revize.com/revize/cedarrapids/document_center/CommDev/Owners%20Handbook.pdf