SmartMove Pricing: What to Expect

As a landlord or property manager, you're always on the lookout for tools that can make your job easier and more efficient and finding a reliable tenant who pays rent on time and respects your rental property is a top priority! A tool like SmartMove, a comprehensive tenant screening service, can help you make informed decisions about potential renters.

‍

But how much does SmartMove cost? And is it worth the investment?

‍

Let's dive in and find out!
‍

In this post, you will learn about the different pricing options available with SmartMove, any additional fees you might encounter, factors that could affect the cost, and the overall value that SmartMove brings to the table. Plus, we'll share why Clara might be an even better choice for your tenant screening needs.
‍

SmartMove Pricing Options �

SmartMove by TransUnion is a leading online tenant screening service that leverages data-driven insights to help landlords and real estate investor make informed decisions. It provides comprehensive reports, including credit checks, criminal background screenings, and eviction reports, making renter selection faster for you.

SmartMove offers flexible options to meet different needs, but knowing which one is right for your property can save you money and time.

‍
SmartMove Basic - $25 per Applicant

The Basic plan is ideal for landlords who just need a quick look at an applicant's background.

This package includes: 
‍

• Proprietarty ResidentScore (a custom credit-based score) 
• Basic criminal background check

While it provides fundamental insights, it lacks data on eviction history and credit reports, so it’s most suitable for low-risk rental properties.
‍

SmartMove Plus - $40 per Applicant

For a more in-depth screening, the Plus tier includes everything in the Basic plan and adds:
‍

• Full credit report with a detailed summary of financial activity  
• Nationwide eviction report  
  ‍

This option works best for landlords looking to rent to tenants who will likely stay long-term, especially for mid-range properties.
‍

SmartCheck Premium - $43 per Applicant  

The Premium plan is the most comprehensive, offering all the features of the Plus package and upgrading it with:
‍

• TransUnion Income Insights (helps validate income against the renter’s stated earnings)  
  ‍

This package is perfect for high-value rentals or landlords who cannot afford any risks associated with income instability.
‍
‍

Factors Affecting the Cost

The cost of using SmartMove can vary based on several factors:
‍

• Choose who pays: With SmartMove, you can choose to either pay the screening fee yourself or have the applicant cover the cost. Many landlords pass this along to prospective tenants.
• Number of applicants: For large rental properties requiring multiple applicants for a single unit, the cost could add up quickly.
• State and local requirements: Some states might impose additional fees or require expanded screenings, increasing costs. This is particularly relevant if your rental properties are located in areas with stricter tenant laws.
  ‍

Benefits and Value of SmartMove

So, is SmartMove worth the cost? Let's consider the value it provides:
‍

• Comprehensive tenant screening: SmartMove offers a thorough screening process, going beyond just a credit score and background check. However more thorough screenings, such as income insights and a full credit report, are only available with the Pro plan.
• Quick and efficient online process: With SmartMove being digital, you can cut your search time and fill your properties faster. Less downtime means more rent collected. 🙌
• Cost-effective solution: For landlords and property managers, SmartMove can be a cost-effective solution, especially when you consider the potential costs of leasing to a problematic tenant.

The Upside of Clara

While SmartMove is a strong contender in tenant screening, you should know about Clara, a rental application and screening platform offering additional features tailored for landlords' evolving needs. Here's where Clara stands out:
‍

• Transparent Pricing  
  ‍

 Clara provides clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees for landlords or tenants. Applicants pay the $49 application fee and there is no cost to the landlord or agents.
‍

• Multi-Layer Data Verification  
  ‍

 Clara's screening covers extensive data validation, ensuring that you’re not just relying on self-reported information but verified income and identity details. Income information is sourced directly from payroll accounts, ensuring it's verified at the 'source of truth.'  Key metrics like real-time gross income, employment status, and hire dates provide a trustworthy financial snapshot. Plus advanced fraud detection ensures authenticity and rejects fake pay stubs.
 

• Inclusive Ecosystem for Renters and Landlords  
  ‍

 Clara goes beyond screening to foster stronger relationships between landlords and renters. It provides tools that simplify the rental experience on both ends, like an easy application process and secure data handling.
‍

• User-Friendly Interface  
  ‍

 Clara is designed to be intuitive, ensuring both landlords and renters can easily complete the process with minimal technical know-how.
‍

• Data Security  
  ‍

 Clara partners with Veriff and Argyle for advanced security measures, keeping sensitive renter and landlord data safe while ensuring compliance with industry standards.
‍

With Clara, you don’t just lease a property; you cultivate trust and transparency to create a better experience for all parties.
‍

Making the Right Choice for Your Screening Needs

Choosing a tenant screening service is an important aspect of your property management strategy. SmartMove is a reliable choice with flexible pricing plans and comprehensive features, but it’s not your only option. Clara offers innovative features that make screening and renting more secure, inclusive, and efficient.  
‍

If you're looking for a platform that goes beyond screening to provide a full-service experience for landlords and tenants, Clara might just be the upgrade your business needs.

‍

Your next step?

‍

Evaluate your screening needs, compare features, and make a choice that aligns with your property management goals.

‍

‍