Opportunity's knocking and you need someone to take over your lease. Make the time to interview potential subletters and ask the questions that will help you find the perfect fit.

Just the Facts, Ma'am

You're entrusting subletters to assume your responsibility so it's important to get details about their lives. Ask questions that reveal the subletter’s financial status and trustworthiness, like: Where do you work? What is your monthly income after taxes? How long have you lived at your current address? Verify as much of the information as you can from other sources. Ask for references, run a credit check, and double-check employment status.

New Lease on Life

Your prospective subletter’s lifestyle is important, and getting a few glimpses into their home lives can help you decide whether they're a good fit for your space. Don't be shy. Ask personal questions such as: How many people will be living with you? Do you have any pets? Do you have children? Do you plan on having any parties during the sublet period? Do you smoke? Will you be bringing any furniture with you, or will you be placing things in storage? Why are you looking for a sublease?

Pay as much attention to a prospective subletter’s body language as you do their actual answers. Look for potential candidates who want a sublease because they need housing for an irregular period of time, not because they want to avoid formal credit checks. Make sure their lifestyles fit your space, and be sure to put your special items and files in storage so your things don't get lost or broken in the shuffle.

Subletting gives you the freedom to enjoy your new adventure, so take the time to ask questions that pinpoint the good subletters from the bad.