Before you can settle into that perfect apartment that caught your eye, you’ll have to fill out a rental application. We all know that standing out in the rental application process can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Here’s everything you’ll need to help your rental application process go smoothly.
Basic Information
To start, you’ll need to provide the following basic information:
- Full legal name
- Social security number
- Contact information, which usually includes your phone number, current address, and email
- Employer’s name
In addition, rental applications usually require some other information that you might not know off the top of your head, such as driver’s license number and former addresses of places you’ve lived. Be sure to have all the necessary documents on hand so you can easily refer to them when filling out your application.
Employment Information
Most applications require some proof of employment to prove to the landlord or property manager that you are financially secure and can afford the rent. The last thing any landlord wants is someone who doesn’t pay their rent on time.
Proof of employment can be shown by recent pay stubs, an offer letter, a W-2 form, providing a monthly wage amount, and/or a person the landlord can contact at your workplace to verify employment. This person can be your supervisor, boss, or HR at your place of employment. Your landlord will probably specify which type of proof they want to see.
Background and Credit Check
These are not always required, so make sure you figure out if they are necessary. If a credit check is required, then you will likely be asked to provide your past credit history. Landlords usually want this information so that they can get an idea of how financially responsible you are. You’ll need to provide information on all the credit accounts you have or have had in the past, plus any loans and/or debts you have accumulated. Even if you don’t have the greatest credit, there are plenty of ways to rent an apartment with a low credit score.
If a background check is required, you will have to authorize the landlord to do so. There might also be a section on the application that asks about your criminal history. In this section, you will have to explain and felonies or misdemeanors if you have any on your record.
Past Rental History and References
Rental history is an important component of rental applications. Landlords want to know what you’re like as a tenant, so they will typically ask for your past landlords’ contact information. Speaking to your previous landlords gives them insight on what to expect from you as a tenant.
In addition to the contact information, letters of reference are very helpful and can add to your application. If you’re renting your first apartment and don’t have a previous landlord who can write you a letter, don’t worry. There are plenty of options when it comes time to think about who to choose as referrals for your rental application. Along with past landlords, current and former employers, professors, and even co-workers can vouch for your character.
Although it sounds like a lot of work to gather and organize all of this information, there are ways to ensure that it gets done efficiently. Be organized, come prepared, and have all your information on hand. Once you fill out your application, you’re ready to look for apartments for rent and apply to all the ones you like.
