Are you ready to rent your first apartment? If so, you have likely browsed some of the options online, and you may have even found a few that look promising.
However, the rental application is an important part of the process you can’t afford to ignore.
Keep reading to learn more about this process, what to expect, and how to ensure it moves along smoothly.
Filling Out the Application for Apartment
Each apartment will have an application you must fill out. While every building operates differently, you can expect that the application process will include:
- Fill out the application online (if possible)
- With the landlord
- At the rental office
- During the open house
Today, when renting an apartment, you will probably be able to find the form online and then email the filled-out version to the right person. You can learn more about this on this site.
The Application Fee for Apartment
When applying for an apartment, you will likely have to pay application fees. You may also have to cover the costs of credit and background checks.
The cost can range from $25 to $100, with the most common amounts seen being $35 and $75.
The fees are typically non-refundable. Some states regulate the amount of the application fee so that it can’t be more than the costs paid for the background report and credit check.
Supporting Documents
Every landlord will have a unique form. Because of this, you need to ensure you check with the landlord or management company to see if there are any unusual forms that you may need.
Having everything required can help speed up the process to find out if you are approved.
Some of the typical documents that you will have to have include:
- Your photo ID (passport or driver’s license
- Copy of last two pay stubs and three bank statements
- Assets documents
- Vehicle information
- Professional or personal references
- Prior landlord references
- Contact information
- Copy of two tax returns and two W-2s
If you have pets, you will also need to provide this information if pets are accepted at the apartment.
The Timeline
If you submit an apartment rental application, you probably want to know how long the process will take.
If you can provide the requested information and documents, things will move along smoothly. Also, be sure to ask how long approvals will typically take for the property you want to move into.
Making the Rental Application Process Easy
If you are filling out a rental application for a new apartment, be sure to keep the tips and information here in mind. Doing so is going to help ensure that you have the best chance of getting the apartment.
While there is no guarantee, the tips above will help along the way.
Are you searching for more helpful information and resources? If so, be sure to take a look at some of the other articles on our blog.