Right, I've been meaning to write this for ages. I see the same questions over and over so I'm putting it all in one place.
Screening. Everyone has opinions. Here's mine: it doesn't have to be complicated. You don't need a six-step system. You need enough information to know who you're dealing with.
What I ask for: full name, phone number (not hidden), and either where they work or a LinkedIn or some verifiable thing. That's it. Most guys provide that without complaining. Guys who complain about that are not guys I want in my apartment. Simple as.
Had a fella last week text from a hidden number. I replied saying I don't deal with hidden numbers and he'd need to call from a normal one. He sent back a load about his privacy. I said I have privacy concerns too, that's why I screen. He went away. Not losing sleep over it.
I also check the number on Google. You'd be amazed what comes up. Last year a number came back linked to a domestic violence case, not directly, but the guy's name from the number and then that name in a local news report. No thank you. Declined, moved on.
The other thing: don't lower your rate for someone who says they'll be a regular. Not yet. They're not a regular yet. They're a stranger who'd like to pay less. Regulars earn a discount over time, not in advance of earning it.
I'm not trying to sound harsh. This is just what works. Cork is small enough that word gets around both ways. Clients who treat you well tell other clients. Clients who push you around also talk. Your reputation and your boundaries are basically the same thing.
One more thing. If someone ghosts you after you send the booking confirmation, charge a no-show fee next time they contact you. Half won't contact you again. The other half will pay it and never ghost you again.
That's it. Not complicated. Don't let people make it complicated.