Rental Application Documents & Requirements: What You Need to Know

Application Requirement: Every adult (18+) must apply.
Background Check Fee: $59 per adult - Applications can be transferred from property to property as long as it's within 2 months of applying.
Valid ID: Required for each applicant (driver's license and passport are most common)
Proof of Income: Complete Appfolio Income Verification (monthly income should be ≥ 3x monthly rent). Alternative documents: bank statements or 2 years of tax returns, social security, alimony, may also be permissible.
Landlord References: Provide 3 years of references (false references may have legal consequences).
Pets: Submit a photo with your pet(s), if applicable.
Co-signers: Co-signers must make 3x your own rent + the monthly rent of the rental you are applying for.

Finding the right rental can be a journey, and the application process is a critical step towards securing your future home. While it may seem complex, being well-prepared can simplify the process significantly. Below, we delve into the details of what you’ll need to successfully apply for a rental property.

Adult Applicants and Application Fees

Every adult planning to live in the rental must complete an application form and submit a valid form of identification. This step is crucial for us to verify the identity and assess the background of potential tenants. An application fee of $59 is typically required from each applicant, covering the cost of background checks and processing the application.

Financial Documentation

Using Appfolio’s automated income verification feature is beneficial because it’s quick, secure, and efficient. By linking your bank or payroll account, you can instantly verify your income without needing to manually upload multiple documents. It helps to speed up the application process and ensure everything is accurate, reducing the chances of any delays or issues! If you don’t have pay stubs, a job offer or other forms of income, like tax returns (last 2 years for self-employed), savings accounts or bank statements, social security, or alimony, may be good alternatives.

If you are leaving your current job to relocate, please include an offer letter for the job you will be working while living at the home you applied for.

Landlord References

A history of positive rental experiences can significantly bolster your application. You'll need to provide three years of landlord references to attest to your reliability as a tenant. Given the seriousness of identity theft, it's crucial to ensure these references are accurate and truthful, as false information can lead to reports to credit bureaus and legal authorities. If you don't have any rental references from owning your home previously, or if you are renting for the first time, just let us know. Your application will still be considered.

Animals

If you have pets, include a photo of you with them in your application. This helps us assess whether your pet fits within their policy guidelines regarding size and breed.

Conclusion

The rental application process is a detailed procedure that requires careful preparation. By ensuring you have all the necessary documents and information—valid ID, financial proof, accurate landlord references, and pet photos—you're setting the stage for a smooth application process. Approach each step with diligence to improve your chances of making your desired rental your new home.