Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) November 14, 2009 -- Indianapolis, Indiana. On Target Screening, Inc., a leader in resident screening, tenant screening and volunteer screening services, has launched its Church Volunteer Screening Program, a background screening solution that meets volunteer screening standards established by the National Child Protection Act.
On October 9, 1998 the Volunteers for Children Act was signed into law as Public Law 105-251, amending the National Child Protection Act of 1993. This law affects any business or organization providing care, treatment, education, training, instruction, supervision, or recreation for children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities... whether public, private, for-profit, non-profit, or voluntary.
With this amendment, if a volunteer or employee of an organization sexually molests a child, elderly person or individual with a disability in his or her care and if it can be shown this volunteer or employee had previously been convicted of a relevant crime in the United States that organization may be held liable for negligent hiring.
On Target Screening works with each church or non-profit organization to develop customized, comprehensive, affordable volunteer screening package. Steven Foster, President of the company said “we understand that you welcome everyone to your church. We know that some of these folks might have some very colorful pasts and most importantly that they are forgiven. Our services are not designed to simply reject any volunteer. Our focus and mission is simple - helping you discover the best fit for every member and volunteer in your church, while you to focus on your mission.”
To help churches and non-profit organizations comply with the National Child Protection Act, On Target Screening is offering its Basic Church Volunteer Screening Package for $12.00. This package includes a comprehensive address history report, a national criminal report, and a national sex offender search. "We developed this special package pricing to reinforce our commitment to help churches and non-profit organizations maintain compliance of all volunteer screening regulations," said Steven Foster. "This is especially important for churches because many interact with potentially vulnerable populations on a regular basis." Clients have the ability to email links to potential volunteers to collect the personal information required to conduct volunteer screening checks. Clients also have the option to require the volunteer to pay the screening costs.”
If negative information is discovered on a volunteer’s background report, clients have the option to suppress the details, pending further investigation. After On Target Screening completes an investigation and verification process, based on the client’s screening policy a NOT QUALIFIED recommendation is available, without releasing the details of the report. Clients may also designate a staff member to receive any negative information.
About On Target Screening, Inc
On Target Screening, Inc is a Christian owned and operated background screening company. Steven Foster, the President of the company is a graduate of Ozark Christian College. Our staff are members of, and we support Christian Churches, Church of Christ associated with the Restoration Movement. Our volunteer screening services are available to all churches and non-profit organizations.
On Target Screening, Inc''
55 Monument Circle, Suite 1334'
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
317-423-0470
888-423-0470
www.volunteerscreening.us
www.ontargetscreening.com
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Resident Screening Tenant Screening Franchise Launched
On Target Screening has launched a unique franchise opportunity that will allow creative landlords, real estate investors and multi-family property managers to start own their own resident screening and tenant screening business based on a proved franchise model.
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) November 13, 2009 -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
On Target Screening has launched a unique franchise opportunity that will allow creative landlords and multi-family property managers to start own their own resident and tenant screening business based on a proved franchise model.
Since launching the franchise opportunity just one month ago, Steven Foster, President of the company says the company has already fielded inquiries from across the county. "To the best of our knowledge there is no other franchise on the market quite like what we are offering the ability to offer accurate, affordable background screening services, including resident screening, tenant screening, and volunteer Screening services for churches and non-profit organizations. Franchisees will have the opportunity to launch volunteer screening and employment screening services next year."
On Target's resident screening and tenant screening business model is built upon a proven track record and our unique expertise in screening rental applicants and building solid long-term relationships with our clients. Clients who depend on these services include the single unit property owner, real estate investors with multiple rentals and property managers responsible for small and large apartment communities.
On Target’s experience and proven track record offers selected franchisees the opportunity to work under the umbrella of a well-established, experienced resident screening and tenant screening business model -with a safety net.
Foster says prospective franchisees are most likely to be creative and driven real estate investors or multi-family property management professionals who want to start their own business. "The statistics prove that a good franchise model is much more likely to succeed than a start-up company so it's a good option for them. And we're only taking on a few new franchises every year so that we can work with them closely and ensure their success," says Foster.About On Target Screening, Inc
On Target Screening, Inc., is the leading provider of online background checks and risk management services to the apartment industry. On Target Screening launched services to help landlords, real estate investors, multi-family property managers/owners harness the power of statistical credit scoring over the Internet to increase net operating income, reduce risk and improve operational efficiency.
On Target is headquartered at 55 Monument Circle, Suite 1334, Indianapolis, Indiana and is adding local offices nationwide. The company can be reached at (317)423-0470. Additional information is available on their website at http://residentscreening.us/Partners/tabid/234/language/en-US/Default.aspx. or www.OnTargetScreening.com.
On Target Screening, Inc is a member of the National Association of Property Managers, Indiana Apartment Association, Central Indiana Real Estate Investors Association, National Apartment Association, Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association, Apartment Association of Fort Wayne, Kentuckiana Real Estate Investors Association and the Greater Dayton Real Estate Investors Association.
Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) November 13, 2009 -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
On Target Screening has launched a unique franchise opportunity that will allow creative landlords and multi-family property managers to start own their own resident and tenant screening business based on a proved franchise model.
Since launching the franchise opportunity just one month ago, Steven Foster, President of the company says the company has already fielded inquiries from across the county. "To the best of our knowledge there is no other franchise on the market quite like what we are offering the ability to offer accurate, affordable background screening services, including resident screening, tenant screening, and volunteer Screening services for churches and non-profit organizations. Franchisees will have the opportunity to launch volunteer screening and employment screening services next year."
On Target's resident screening and tenant screening business model is built upon a proven track record and our unique expertise in screening rental applicants and building solid long-term relationships with our clients. Clients who depend on these services include the single unit property owner, real estate investors with multiple rentals and property managers responsible for small and large apartment communities.
On Target’s experience and proven track record offers selected franchisees the opportunity to work under the umbrella of a well-established, experienced resident screening and tenant screening business model -with a safety net.
Foster says prospective franchisees are most likely to be creative and driven real estate investors or multi-family property management professionals who want to start their own business. "The statistics prove that a good franchise model is much more likely to succeed than a start-up company so it's a good option for them. And we're only taking on a few new franchises every year so that we can work with them closely and ensure their success," says Foster.About On Target Screening, Inc
On Target Screening, Inc., is the leading provider of online background checks and risk management services to the apartment industry. On Target Screening launched services to help landlords, real estate investors, multi-family property managers/owners harness the power of statistical credit scoring over the Internet to increase net operating income, reduce risk and improve operational efficiency.
On Target is headquartered at 55 Monument Circle, Suite 1334, Indianapolis, Indiana and is adding local offices nationwide. The company can be reached at (317)423-0470. Additional information is available on their website at http://residentscreening.us/Partners/tabid/234/language/en-US/Default.aspx. or www.OnTargetScreening.com.
On Target Screening, Inc is a member of the National Association of Property Managers, Indiana Apartment Association, Central Indiana Real Estate Investors Association, National Apartment Association, Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association, Apartment Association of Fort Wayne, Kentuckiana Real Estate Investors Association and the Greater Dayton Real Estate Investors Association.
Monday, October 19, 2009
On Target Screening Secures $2 Million in Capital Financing
INDIANAPOLIS, October 10, 2009 – On Target Screening, Inc., a leading Internet-based resident, employment and volunteer screening service announced today that it has closed a $2 million round of capital funding from MRL Investments.
"This first round of capital funding is by sophisticated investors and validates our business model and strengthens our options going forward," said Steven Foster, president of On Target Screening. "Our customer base is already growing at a phenomenal rate, surpassing all our projections, and with this funding we can rapidly increase marketing, franchising, and strategic partnerships much faster." Foster added “Ron Bailey, our Chief Technology Officer is leading a nationwide search for seasoned industry veterans to fill key management and marketing positions.”
”We have identified the background screening industry as a significant growth industry and On Target Screening is unique in its business-to-business, business-to-consumer and integrated screening capabilities,” said M. Lindsey, a principal of MRL Investments. “We believe On Target is well positioned to take advantage of this tremendous market opportunity.”
About MRL Investments
MRL Investments creates and manages capital partnerships, making investments in start-up, early-stage and emerging-growth companies. The company primarily seeks opportunities in communications, network infrastructure, and Internet software and services. MRL Investments works in partnership with entrepreneurs, providing initial capital and marketing services to create profitable companies.
On Target Screening can be reached at 317-423.0470 or by visiting www.OnTargetScreening.com.
"This first round of capital funding is by sophisticated investors and validates our business model and strengthens our options going forward," said Steven Foster, president of On Target Screening. "Our customer base is already growing at a phenomenal rate, surpassing all our projections, and with this funding we can rapidly increase marketing, franchising, and strategic partnerships much faster." Foster added “Ron Bailey, our Chief Technology Officer is leading a nationwide search for seasoned industry veterans to fill key management and marketing positions.”
”We have identified the background screening industry as a significant growth industry and On Target Screening is unique in its business-to-business, business-to-consumer and integrated screening capabilities,” said M. Lindsey, a principal of MRL Investments. “We believe On Target is well positioned to take advantage of this tremendous market opportunity.”
About MRL Investments
MRL Investments creates and manages capital partnerships, making investments in start-up, early-stage and emerging-growth companies. The company primarily seeks opportunities in communications, network infrastructure, and Internet software and services. MRL Investments works in partnership with entrepreneurs, providing initial capital and marketing services to create profitable companies.
On Target Screening can be reached at 317-423.0470 or by visiting www.OnTargetScreening.com.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Central Indiana Real Estate Investors Association - CIREIA Annual Trade Show
August 11 – 6:30 – 9 p.m.
CIREIA 2009 Trade Show – Night of Networking
Free Admission – Public Welcome
The Central Indiana Real Estate Investors Association (CIREIA) is a non-profit group created by and for real estate investors and landlords. Our members are entrepreneurs at all levels of knowledge and experience, and the goal of our annual Trade Show is to give you hundreds of ideas on ways to save investors money. The goal of this NIGHT OF NETWORKING is to provide you with leads on all elements of real estate investing.
Don’t Miss this Opportunity to:
- Network with other investors
- Talk with potential vendors
- Learn about available services
- Win Prizes!
Meetings are held at the Gene B Glick Junior Achievement Center at :7435 N Keystone Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46240.
For more information visit us at http://ontargetscreening.com
CIREIA 2009 Trade Show – Night of Networking
Free Admission – Public Welcome
The Central Indiana Real Estate Investors Association (CIREIA) is a non-profit group created by and for real estate investors and landlords. Our members are entrepreneurs at all levels of knowledge and experience, and the goal of our annual Trade Show is to give you hundreds of ideas on ways to save investors money. The goal of this NIGHT OF NETWORKING is to provide you with leads on all elements of real estate investing.
Don’t Miss this Opportunity to:
- Network with other investors
- Talk with potential vendors
- Learn about available services
- Win Prizes!
Meetings are held at the Gene B Glick Junior Achievement Center at :7435 N Keystone Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46240.
For more information visit us at http://ontargetscreening.com
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Application Fraud on the Rise in Hard Economic Times
Fraud on the Rise in Hard Economic Times
As the economy tightens, some applicants may begin to play fast and loose with the facts. They may feel desperate times call for desperate measures with increased foreclosures and evictions. It's extremely important not cut corners in your applicant screening during any economic downturns. Application fraud is likely to be uncovered, if you stay the course of being selective and more diligent in your screening process.
Do not assume that application fraud is only perpetrated by young, inexperienced applicants trying to pull the wool over your eyes. Setup landlord and employment references are on the rise as well.
Verify all phone numbers for rental history and employment verification with the phone book or online yellow pages. We recommend that you verify property ownership for all rental history related to your applicant. You will find this information in our eviction report, or with the local tax assessor office.
Address History Report reduces fraud and much more...
The On Target Address History report can uncover rental history fraud. This is also a great tool when reviewing possible evictions.
Please click here to learn more and to see a sample report.
Please visit us online http://www.ontargetscreening.com/
If you have any questions please reply to this email or call our office at 317-423-0470
As the economy tightens, some applicants may begin to play fast and loose with the facts. They may feel desperate times call for desperate measures with increased foreclosures and evictions. It's extremely important not cut corners in your applicant screening during any economic downturns. Application fraud is likely to be uncovered, if you stay the course of being selective and more diligent in your screening process.
Do not assume that application fraud is only perpetrated by young, inexperienced applicants trying to pull the wool over your eyes. Setup landlord and employment references are on the rise as well.
Verify all phone numbers for rental history and employment verification with the phone book or online yellow pages. We recommend that you verify property ownership for all rental history related to your applicant. You will find this information in our eviction report, or with the local tax assessor office.
Address History Report reduces fraud and much more...
The On Target Address History report can uncover rental history fraud. This is also a great tool when reviewing possible evictions.
Please click here to learn more and to see a sample report.
Please visit us online http://www.ontargetscreening.com/
If you have any questions please reply to this email or call our office at 317-423-0470
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Why Bother Screening Rental Applicants?
With bankruptcies and foreclosure activity at record numbers and rental occupancy rates the lowest in years, finding qualified tenants to fill rental units has become increasing difficult.
Tenant screening is one of those expenses that will more than pay for itself. It’s important to remember that tenant screening can make a difference between success and failure. Your success is dependent upon the rent being paid on time. If rent is paid late or at all, what happens is you must cover your expenses like maintenance and mortgage payments. The average eviction is around $1,500.00 and it can take a year or more to get past the loss. Approving the right application is the difference between success and failure.
Always use a professional tenant screening company and don’t cut corners. A good screening company will help you through the process and also help you understand the reports. Another common mistake I see is asking applicant’s to supply a copy of their own credit report. This is a very bad idea for two reasons. First, anyone can use a word processor or text editor to change or remove items from a credit report. Second, this practice can leave you exposed to violations of the fair credit reporting act.
The Rental Application
Standard rental application fees range from $20 to $75, per applicant, and you will find applicants are used to and willing to pay these fees. Your application fee should more than cover the cost to screen. Depending on your rental criteria, at minimum, order an address history report, consumer credit report, criminal report and eviction report on all applicants. Place orders only if the applicant meets your rental criteria, like income, time on job, etc.
Always use a comprehensive rental application. Provide a written copy of your rental criteria to explain under what conditions you will accept or reject their application. This helps weed out unqualified applicants so you can focus on qualified leads. Collecting the application fee along with the rental application is also a pre-screening tool and it shows the applicant is serious about renting. You will a complete and accurate rental application is very important at the end of the lease or in the event of eviction or skip.
Meet all applicants in person; we call this the rental application interview. First review the rental criteria, if not qualified return the paperwork and move on. Next, review all information on the rental application, check for missing information. Verify applicant’s identity with a government issued ID. During the interview check the ID with the rental application. Note the ID number and issue date directly on the application. Verify the name, address, date of birth from the ID match the rental application. Ask the applicant to verify, from memory, the date of birth and social security number on the application. Require applicants to supply a recent original paycheck stub and a recent utility bill at the interview. Require originals as copies could be altered. The paycheck stub is used to verify income, check for any garnishments and verify the year to date income. Use the utility bill to verify applicant’s current address and note any past due amounts.
Verification of Information
On Target Screening offer employment and rental history verification services. When possible use these services, keep in mind their highly trained staff can catch and raise red flags and other issues. Their experience is well worth the costs.
Employment verifications are tricky so it’s a good idea to require the original recent paycheck stub. Many employers will only verify a hire and termination date. Before contacting employers always verify the phone numbers with the yellow pages or other reliable online directories. To ensure accurate employment verification ask for human resources. Setup employment verification is not uncommon. Applicant provides a friends cell phone number as the employer, when you call to verify, the friend simply answers as the employer and provides the setup information.
Landlord verifications are tricky as well. It’s important to review your applicants address history report with the address history provided on the rental application. The address history report is a great tool to uncover hidden address history. The address history report will also suggest other locations where the applicant lived to check for evictions and criminal history. It’s important to verify ownership of the current and previous addresses with the local tax assessor before you verify rental history. If the property owner information does not match the information provided on the rental application, then it’s time to investigate. While it’s not uncommon for your applicant to be living with a family member, it’s very common to provide setup landlord information in order to hide negative rental history. If suspicious of a setup landlord reference, during your call simply switch two numbers in the property address, or the monthly rent amount. Keep in mind that a setup landlord reference often will verify anything you ask, a real Landlord or Property Manager will often catch it.
Require all occupants to be listed on the rental application (regardless of age). Add anyone over the age of 18 on the lease. In the event of eviction or skip, you have more options to collect.
Obtain at least one emergency contact, preferably family or a very close friend. This will be an important contact in an emergency, a skip or unpaid fees at the end of the lease.
Make sure the rental application provides consent from the applicant allowing you to pull any additional credit reports anytime during and after the lease expires. Without this consent, you are violating Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act guidelines if they pull consumer reports for reasons other than the initial resident screening process.
Other Suggestions
Use Craigslist.org to list available units and include photos of the property. Craigslist is very popular and the service is free in most areas.
Never accept checks for the application fee or security deposits, require money orders.
No personal checks for rent after the 5th, money orders only.
Stick to your rental criteria; studies indicate leasing to unqualified applicants can cost up to three times the amount of leaving a unit empty.
Avoid giving away the farm to rent your units.
Report all rental history to your screening company.
Approve borderline applications with either an increased security deposit or require a co-signer.
Any rent concessions always pay it at the end of the lease.
Thorough tenant screening provides you with a solid foundation of renters. The impact of cutting corners during the application process can severely impact your bottom line. Tenant screening is one expense well worth the cost, time and effort.
Never use your Tenant Screening Account to screen employees or employment applicants.
Tenant screening is one of those expenses that will more than pay for itself. It’s important to remember that tenant screening can make a difference between success and failure. Your success is dependent upon the rent being paid on time. If rent is paid late or at all, what happens is you must cover your expenses like maintenance and mortgage payments. The average eviction is around $1,500.00 and it can take a year or more to get past the loss. Approving the right application is the difference between success and failure.
Always use a professional tenant screening company and don’t cut corners. A good screening company will help you through the process and also help you understand the reports. Another common mistake I see is asking applicant’s to supply a copy of their own credit report. This is a very bad idea for two reasons. First, anyone can use a word processor or text editor to change or remove items from a credit report. Second, this practice can leave you exposed to violations of the fair credit reporting act.
The Rental Application
Standard rental application fees range from $20 to $75, per applicant, and you will find applicants are used to and willing to pay these fees. Your application fee should more than cover the cost to screen. Depending on your rental criteria, at minimum, order an address history report, consumer credit report, criminal report and eviction report on all applicants. Place orders only if the applicant meets your rental criteria, like income, time on job, etc.
Always use a comprehensive rental application. Provide a written copy of your rental criteria to explain under what conditions you will accept or reject their application. This helps weed out unqualified applicants so you can focus on qualified leads. Collecting the application fee along with the rental application is also a pre-screening tool and it shows the applicant is serious about renting. You will a complete and accurate rental application is very important at the end of the lease or in the event of eviction or skip.
Meet all applicants in person; we call this the rental application interview. First review the rental criteria, if not qualified return the paperwork and move on. Next, review all information on the rental application, check for missing information. Verify applicant’s identity with a government issued ID. During the interview check the ID with the rental application. Note the ID number and issue date directly on the application. Verify the name, address, date of birth from the ID match the rental application. Ask the applicant to verify, from memory, the date of birth and social security number on the application. Require applicants to supply a recent original paycheck stub and a recent utility bill at the interview. Require originals as copies could be altered. The paycheck stub is used to verify income, check for any garnishments and verify the year to date income. Use the utility bill to verify applicant’s current address and note any past due amounts.
Verification of Information
On Target Screening offer employment and rental history verification services. When possible use these services, keep in mind their highly trained staff can catch and raise red flags and other issues. Their experience is well worth the costs.
Employment verifications are tricky so it’s a good idea to require the original recent paycheck stub. Many employers will only verify a hire and termination date. Before contacting employers always verify the phone numbers with the yellow pages or other reliable online directories. To ensure accurate employment verification ask for human resources. Setup employment verification is not uncommon. Applicant provides a friends cell phone number as the employer, when you call to verify, the friend simply answers as the employer and provides the setup information.
Landlord verifications are tricky as well. It’s important to review your applicants address history report with the address history provided on the rental application. The address history report is a great tool to uncover hidden address history. The address history report will also suggest other locations where the applicant lived to check for evictions and criminal history. It’s important to verify ownership of the current and previous addresses with the local tax assessor before you verify rental history. If the property owner information does not match the information provided on the rental application, then it’s time to investigate. While it’s not uncommon for your applicant to be living with a family member, it’s very common to provide setup landlord information in order to hide negative rental history. If suspicious of a setup landlord reference, during your call simply switch two numbers in the property address, or the monthly rent amount. Keep in mind that a setup landlord reference often will verify anything you ask, a real Landlord or Property Manager will often catch it.
Require all occupants to be listed on the rental application (regardless of age). Add anyone over the age of 18 on the lease. In the event of eviction or skip, you have more options to collect.
Obtain at least one emergency contact, preferably family or a very close friend. This will be an important contact in an emergency, a skip or unpaid fees at the end of the lease.
Make sure the rental application provides consent from the applicant allowing you to pull any additional credit reports anytime during and after the lease expires. Without this consent, you are violating Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act guidelines if they pull consumer reports for reasons other than the initial resident screening process.
Other Suggestions
Use Craigslist.org to list available units and include photos of the property. Craigslist is very popular and the service is free in most areas.
Never accept checks for the application fee or security deposits, require money orders.
No personal checks for rent after the 5th, money orders only.
Stick to your rental criteria; studies indicate leasing to unqualified applicants can cost up to three times the amount of leaving a unit empty.
Avoid giving away the farm to rent your units.
Report all rental history to your screening company.
Approve borderline applications with either an increased security deposit or require a co-signer.
Any rent concessions always pay it at the end of the lease.
Thorough tenant screening provides you with a solid foundation of renters. The impact of cutting corners during the application process can severely impact your bottom line. Tenant screening is one expense well worth the cost, time and effort.
Never use your Tenant Screening Account to screen employees or employment applicants.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
On Target Launches Applicant Tenant Screening for Owners and Managers of Rental Properties
Choosing new residents can be one of the biggest challenges facing Property Owners and Managers. On Target Screening, Inc. announced a new tenant screening service that enables property owners and managers with one to several hundred units to screen rental applicants.OnTargetScreening.com offers an Internet-based resident and tenant screening service designed to meet the unique rental applicant selection needs of the independent rental owner or multi-family apartment manager.
The easy-to-use online tenant screening service quickly produces a leasing recommendation based on the rental applicant's retail credit report, address history, eviction history and criminal background check. This resident screening service is designed to help rental owners and managers make more informed decisions when choosing residents and confidently fill vacancies quicker.'On Target Screening recognized that property owners and managers needed accurate and efficient resident screening tools to control their risk and comply with Fair Housing and Fair Credit Reporting guidelines,' said Ron Bailey, CTO of On Target. 'Most importantly, they want information they can understand. The leasing recommendation is helpful in interpreting the many interacting variables one should consider when approving new residents.
Our tenant screening service, customized specifically to their needs, facilitates an objective resident selection process in seconds.'How On Target tgenant screening works-- The property owner or manager registers online at www.OnTargetScreening.com and receives a password that is used to log onto a secure web site.-- Users may choose tenant screening report packages for a broad range of services or select individual resident screening reports.-- The user enters a few simple items from the rental application and then clicks 'Submit.'-- In less than a minute, On Target processes the transaction and delivers a leasing recommendation as well as selected reports for quick decision-making.
Tenant screening fees range from $8 for a simple social security fraud check to $34.95 for a complete credit, evictions, social security fraud, rental and criminal search background check.On Target's online resident screening services are based on a retail credit scoring model using credit history, demographics, prior rental history and local landlord/tenant laws. The model uses those indicators that were found to be most highly predictive and provides a highly accurate assessment that is fully compliant with Fair Housing and Fair Credit requirements.
About On TargetOn Target Screening, Inc., is the leading provider of online background checks , resident and tenant screening services, pre-employment screening services, volunteer screening services and risk management services for the apartment industry, employeers and non-profit organizations. Founded in 2009, On Target launched background screening services to help harness the power of statistical credit scoring over the Internet to increase net operating income, reduce risk and improve operational efficiency.
On Target is headquartered at 55 Monument Circle, Suite 1334, Indianapolis, Indiana and is adding local offices nationwide. The company can be reached at (317)423-0470 or through its website: www.OnTargetScreening.com.Media Contact:On Target Screening, IncRonald Bailey317-423-0470
The easy-to-use online tenant screening service quickly produces a leasing recommendation based on the rental applicant's retail credit report, address history, eviction history and criminal background check. This resident screening service is designed to help rental owners and managers make more informed decisions when choosing residents and confidently fill vacancies quicker.'On Target Screening recognized that property owners and managers needed accurate and efficient resident screening tools to control their risk and comply with Fair Housing and Fair Credit Reporting guidelines,' said Ron Bailey, CTO of On Target. 'Most importantly, they want information they can understand. The leasing recommendation is helpful in interpreting the many interacting variables one should consider when approving new residents.
Our tenant screening service, customized specifically to their needs, facilitates an objective resident selection process in seconds.'How On Target tgenant screening works-- The property owner or manager registers online at www.OnTargetScreening.com and receives a password that is used to log onto a secure web site.-- Users may choose tenant screening report packages for a broad range of services or select individual resident screening reports.-- The user enters a few simple items from the rental application and then clicks 'Submit.'-- In less than a minute, On Target processes the transaction and delivers a leasing recommendation as well as selected reports for quick decision-making.
Tenant screening fees range from $8 for a simple social security fraud check to $34.95 for a complete credit, evictions, social security fraud, rental and criminal search background check.On Target's online resident screening services are based on a retail credit scoring model using credit history, demographics, prior rental history and local landlord/tenant laws. The model uses those indicators that were found to be most highly predictive and provides a highly accurate assessment that is fully compliant with Fair Housing and Fair Credit requirements.
About On TargetOn Target Screening, Inc., is the leading provider of online background checks , resident and tenant screening services, pre-employment screening services, volunteer screening services and risk management services for the apartment industry, employeers and non-profit organizations. Founded in 2009, On Target launched background screening services to help harness the power of statistical credit scoring over the Internet to increase net operating income, reduce risk and improve operational efficiency.
On Target is headquartered at 55 Monument Circle, Suite 1334, Indianapolis, Indiana and is adding local offices nationwide. The company can be reached at (317)423-0470 or through its website: www.OnTargetScreening.com.Media Contact:On Target Screening, IncRonald Bailey317-423-0470
Friday, May 29, 2009
June News
>>>> Great Report – Now just $6.00 each
TargetSmart TM (Address History) is the first step in the tenant / resident screening process and acts as the foundation for a proven resident screening methodology, because it not only reveals identifying information – such as name and name variations, and date of birth – but also provides an accounting of resident history by uncovering current and former addresses. My report actually goes back 30 years. By cross-referencing addresses uncovered by TargetSmart, using 3.5 billion records, with addresses provided by the applicant, clients can order the appropriate criminal searches based on a minimum of the last seven years of address history. This methodology restricts applicants from omitting a place of residence where they may have a pending charge, arrest, or criminal record. This report is not a hit or inquiry on retail credit report. It’s also a great skip-tracing tool.
>>> Great Web Tool, New Chat Live Help
Our online chat server is now live on our web site. It’s a great way to communicate with our staff, ask any question you have, or report any errors or other problems. You will find a Live Chat button on every page at http://www.OnTargetScreening.com. If we are not available when you click on the Live Chat Button, please use the leave message feature so we can respond quickly.
To chat now, click or copy and paste this link into your browser
http://chat.ontargetscreening.com/livehelp.php?department=1
>>> Computer Tips that won’t cost you a dime
If your Windows PC or Windows Notebook is running slow, acting strange, or takes a long time to reboot simply follow the steps below to optimize your settings, disk drives, memory and programs. Please check with your IT department before loading any software on business or work PCs.
Step One
Run Microsoft’s free online Safety Scan at http://onecare.live.com/site/en-us/default.htm. To start simply click the Full Service Scan button to start installing the program. We recommend staring the scan at night. I’ve seen time when the scan takes up to 8 hours to complete.
Step Two
Download and Install SpyBot – it’s free and recommended by Microsoft. SpyBot scans your computer and will remove spyware and some viruses. The initial scan should be started at night. Make sure that you apply the immunize option and manual check for updates on a regular basis. You may schedule a complete scan by using the admin option for settings. I recommend scanning your PC every week, and at night to speed the process and checking for updates monthly.
Step Three
Install Virus Protection. Did you know that most internet service providers (like Comcast, BrightHouse, AT&T DSL and ATT U-Verse) offer free virus protection software to internet customers. AT&T Yahoo currently offers McAfee Internet Security Suite for free. For more information, log into your account with your ISP or call customer service.
TargetSmart TM (Address History) is the first step in the tenant / resident screening process and acts as the foundation for a proven resident screening methodology, because it not only reveals identifying information – such as name and name variations, and date of birth – but also provides an accounting of resident history by uncovering current and former addresses. My report actually goes back 30 years. By cross-referencing addresses uncovered by TargetSmart, using 3.5 billion records, with addresses provided by the applicant, clients can order the appropriate criminal searches based on a minimum of the last seven years of address history. This methodology restricts applicants from omitting a place of residence where they may have a pending charge, arrest, or criminal record. This report is not a hit or inquiry on retail credit report. It’s also a great skip-tracing tool.
>>> Great Web Tool, New Chat Live Help
Our online chat server is now live on our web site. It’s a great way to communicate with our staff, ask any question you have, or report any errors or other problems. You will find a Live Chat button on every page at http://www.OnTargetScreening.com. If we are not available when you click on the Live Chat Button, please use the leave message feature so we can respond quickly.
To chat now, click or copy and paste this link into your browser
http://chat.ontargetscreening.com/livehelp.php?department=1
>>> Computer Tips that won’t cost you a dime
If your Windows PC or Windows Notebook is running slow, acting strange, or takes a long time to reboot simply follow the steps below to optimize your settings, disk drives, memory and programs. Please check with your IT department before loading any software on business or work PCs.
Step One
Run Microsoft’s free online Safety Scan at http://onecare.live.com/site/en-us/default.htm. To start simply click the Full Service Scan button to start installing the program. We recommend staring the scan at night. I’ve seen time when the scan takes up to 8 hours to complete.
Step Two
Download and Install SpyBot – it’s free and recommended by Microsoft. SpyBot scans your computer and will remove spyware and some viruses. The initial scan should be started at night. Make sure that you apply the immunize option and manual check for updates on a regular basis. You may schedule a complete scan by using the admin option for settings. I recommend scanning your PC every week, and at night to speed the process and checking for updates monthly.
Step Three
Install Virus Protection. Did you know that most internet service providers (like Comcast, BrightHouse, AT&T DSL and ATT U-Verse) offer free virus protection software to internet customers. AT&T Yahoo currently offers McAfee Internet Security Suite for free. For more information, log into your account with your ISP or call customer service.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
What types of housing discrimination are illegal?
The federal Fair Housing Act and Fair Housing Amendments Act (42 U.S. Code 3601-3619, 3631) prohibit landlords from choosing tenants on the basis of a group characteristic such as:
Race
Religion
Ethnic background or national origin
Sex
Age
The fact that the prospective tenant has children (except in certain designated senior housing)
Mental or physical disability. In addition, some state and local laws prohibit discrimination based on a person's marital status or sexual orientation.
On the other hand, landlords are allowed to select tenants using criteria that are based on valid business reasons, such as requiring a minimum income or positive references from previous landlords, as long as these standards are applied equally to all tenants.
What are examples of housing discrimination?
The Fair Housing Act and Amendments prohibit landlords from taking any of the following actions based on race, religion or any other protected category:
Advertising or making any statement that indicates a preference based on group characteristic, such as skin color.
Falsely denying that a rental unit is available.
Setting more restrictive standards for certain tenants, such as higher income.
Refusing to rent to members of certain groups.
Refusing to accommodate the needs of disabled tenants, such as allowing a guide dog, hearing dog or service dog.
Setting different terms for some tenants, such as adopting an inconsistent policy of responding to late rent payments.
Terminating a tenancy for a discriminatory reason.
Race
Religion
Ethnic background or national origin
Sex
Age
The fact that the prospective tenant has children (except in certain designated senior housing)
Mental or physical disability. In addition, some state and local laws prohibit discrimination based on a person's marital status or sexual orientation.
On the other hand, landlords are allowed to select tenants using criteria that are based on valid business reasons, such as requiring a minimum income or positive references from previous landlords, as long as these standards are applied equally to all tenants.
What are examples of housing discrimination?
The Fair Housing Act and Amendments prohibit landlords from taking any of the following actions based on race, religion or any other protected category:
Advertising or making any statement that indicates a preference based on group characteristic, such as skin color.
Falsely denying that a rental unit is available.
Setting more restrictive standards for certain tenants, such as higher income.
Refusing to rent to members of certain groups.
Refusing to accommodate the needs of disabled tenants, such as allowing a guide dog, hearing dog or service dog.
Setting different terms for some tenants, such as adopting an inconsistent policy of responding to late rent payments.
Terminating a tenancy for a discriminatory reason.
Cool Resident Screening Tool
TargetSmart TM is the first step in tenant / resident screening and acts as the foundation for a proven resident screening methodology, because it not only reveals identifying information – such as name and name variations, and date of birth – but also provides an accounting of resident history by uncovering current and former addresses.
By cross-referencing addresses uncovered by TargetSmart, using 3.5 billion records, with addresses provided by the applicant clients can order the appropriate criminal searches based on a minimum of the last seven years of address history. This methodology restricts applicants from omitting a place of residence where they may have a pending charge, arrest, or criminal record.
TargetSmart TM is also a great skip-tracing tool.
By cross-referencing addresses uncovered by TargetSmart, using 3.5 billion records, with addresses provided by the applicant clients can order the appropriate criminal searches based on a minimum of the last seven years of address history. This methodology restricts applicants from omitting a place of residence where they may have a pending charge, arrest, or criminal record.
TargetSmart TM is also a great skip-tracing tool.
Credit Bureau Required Credentials
The existing federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) has always required credit-reporting agencies and tenant-screening companies to make every responsible effort to verify that customers who wish to purchase retail credit reports have a legitimate purpose for doing so. Both the credit bureaus and companies who are resellers of the bureaus’ data are responsible for compliance.
Experian, TransUnion and Equifax have instituted more stringent regulations in regard to qualifying customers who wish to receive retail credit reports or information from these reports from tenant and employment screening companies. The new requirements are intended to help combat credit fraud and identity theft. All companies which sell retail credit reports are required to qualify customers and any company not in compliance with the new rules will be denied access to retail credit reports.
These rules do not restrict credit report access to any specific real estate owner, investors or managers, nor do they govern access to anything other than retail credit reports. All other types of screening reports will remain available to customers. Screening companies also may continue to sell credit reports and credit report information, but only to those fully qualified under the new regulations.
Specific requirements of each credit bureau vary and their main similarities are as follows:
Experian, TransUnion and Equifax have instituted more stringent regulations in regard to qualifying customers who wish to receive retail credit reports or information from these reports from tenant and employment screening companies. The new requirements are intended to help combat credit fraud and identity theft. All companies which sell retail credit reports are required to qualify customers and any company not in compliance with the new rules will be denied access to retail credit reports.
These rules do not restrict credit report access to any specific real estate owner, investors or managers, nor do they govern access to anything other than retail credit reports. All other types of screening reports will remain available to customers. Screening companies also may continue to sell credit reports and credit report information, but only to those fully qualified under the new regulations.
Specific requirements of each credit bureau vary and their main similarities are as follows:
On-site Inspections"
Real estate owners, investors and managers who wish to receive retail credit reports must undergo an on-site inspection of the location where reports are accessed and stored. Experian, TransUnion and Equifax all require an independent inspection company, approved by the bureau, to conduct the inspection.
Subscribers who operate out of a home office, the inspection may be required annually. To pass the inspection, subscribers must have a locked door for the premises where retail credit reports are accessed and stored, a locked filing cabinet to safeguard the reports, and a shredder to destroy reports no longer needed. Retail credit bureaus also require assurance that subscribers are not involved in any side businesses that may not be approved for the handling of credit reports (e.g., Internet locator services, bail bond companies, credit repair agencies or credit clinics to name a few).
Additional Paperwork
The qualifying process also includes credentialing of all subscribers. This involves confirming the identity of the subscriber, which requires obtaining a copy of an individual subscriber’s driver’s license, or a copy of a business subscriber’s business license. Proof of ownership of rental properties. For incorporated businesses, articles of incorporation may be required. For sole proprietors or partnerships, an assumed business name filing, or individual retail credit report may be required. A subscriber’s status as a real estate owner or manager may be verified using on line phone directories and membership in industry organizations.
On Target Solution
If you do not qualify under these rules or, if you simply do not want to undergo the required on-site inspection(s), we will provide access to order On Target ScoreCard and remove the necessary data from the retail credit report.
On Target ScoreCard reviews an applicants background and produces a leasing recommendation, both of which are based on a thorough and objective analysis of the retail credit record, evictions, lease violations and criminal history. On Target ScoreCard also takes into account income to rent ratio and debt load.
On Target ScoreCard provides subscribers with:
Verification of information on the rental application
Proprietary standards to fully evaluate the application
A fair and meaningful leasing recommendation
The ability to customize your criteria settings to meet your own acceptance criteria
A leasing recommendation
A rejection letter which is compliant with the FCRA.
You Get
All the information you need to make a sound rental decision, in a clear, easy-to-understand format, comprehensive, and objective.
You avoid
Bureau-required on-site inspections and fees
Potential inconsistent decision making, which may lead to exposure to the federal fair housing laws
The task of reading and understanding credit reports
The potential of sensitive consumer data falling into the wrong hands
On Target ScoreCard Plus
Those who have submitted the required paperwork, paid and passed the on-site inspection will have access to full credit reports in the Order Menu.
Resident Screening in a Tight Economy
With changes in the economy on everyone’s mind, this is a good time to take a fresh look at your screening practices and find new ways to adapt - from reviewing your criteria to even selecting a new screening company who is more in tune with your needs.
For years, credit reports were the main source for screening. Today there are a number of databases that help and can carry more weight than just a credit report.
Address history is a great new service and helps you discover other places your applicant has lived. The database uses 30 billion records, is searched using a name and social security number and shows up to a 30 year history.
Nationwide Eviction records are also a great source when screening in a tight economy. They are a great indicator of past rental performance.
The common criteria used to be if an applicant had a prior eviction, it was an immediate deal killer. Dealing with prior evictions can be tricky, but maybe they should not be the deal killer they once were.
There may be verifiable reasons for the eviction filing. Did they change jobs at the same time? Did they try to hide the eviction? What was the outcome of the eviction, was it paid, or did they simply move out? Did they appear on the court date? If they tried to hide the eviction, you might be able to keep the deal alive by keeping the ball in your court.
Explain that you know they lied, but you might give them a chance. Increase your deposit, and file your eviction if they are 1 day late. Verify the time frame with the credit report and the eviction filing. Late payments on credit cards may indicate they were trying to pay the rent first.
For years, credit reports were the main source for screening. Today there are a number of databases that help and can carry more weight than just a credit report.
Address history is a great new service and helps you discover other places your applicant has lived. The database uses 30 billion records, is searched using a name and social security number and shows up to a 30 year history.
Nationwide Eviction records are also a great source when screening in a tight economy. They are a great indicator of past rental performance.
The common criteria used to be if an applicant had a prior eviction, it was an immediate deal killer. Dealing with prior evictions can be tricky, but maybe they should not be the deal killer they once were.
There may be verifiable reasons for the eviction filing. Did they change jobs at the same time? Did they try to hide the eviction? What was the outcome of the eviction, was it paid, or did they simply move out? Did they appear on the court date? If they tried to hide the eviction, you might be able to keep the deal alive by keeping the ball in your court.
Explain that you know they lied, but you might give them a chance. Increase your deposit, and file your eviction if they are 1 day late. Verify the time frame with the credit report and the eviction filing. Late payments on credit cards may indicate they were trying to pay the rent first.
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