Having leased and transacted over 1200 leases both commercial and residential properties, I found out that you can save a lot of time and energy by asking few questions that would help qualify the tenant first before doing anything else.  Here are some of my questions that helped me select potential tenants.   

1.  When do you need to move by?
2.  Why are you moving from your current place?
3.  How many people will be moving in together?
4.  Do you have any pets?
5.  How is your credit?
6.  Do you have a stable job and income?
7.  Where are you moving from?