You have seen the apartment online, conducted a drill in the city and around the city, and finally found the apartment in your dream. What should we do now? Now is the process of renting a house, which is the first step to settle down a new home. We've written a quick guide to the apartment application process and what to expect from it.


1. Fill in the rental application form


Let's start with the basics: the apartment app itself. If you are interested in a property, the next step is to contact the property management department by filling out a rental application. If you have a common signer or plan to have a roommate, they also need to do so. Basically, each person planning to stay is required to complete a separate rental application form. Most hotels have an online application form, but you can apply in person.


2. Pay the apartment application fee


The application fee funds the credit and background checks of potential tenants. It basically covers the screening cost of the applicant, and the rental application fee itself depends on various factors such as the area, the building, and even the landlord.

In some cases, the application fee may be accompanied by a processing fee. Ask your prospective property manager all the costs associated with the property application process you are interested in. You can ask if you decide to go with someone else and what the fee can be refunded.


3. Expected credit and background checks


The application process means that you are likely to be asked to agree to background and credit checks. The background check of the apartment may be traced back to the past, because the landlord thinks it is necessary, they usually pay attention to the criminal history. It is best to report any relevant background information.


4. Prove that you can pay the rent


An important part of the leasing application process is the provision of employment or income proof. Most landlords ask their employers for a tax return, a recent pay slip or other form of receipt. Depending on your work, you can also provide a recent bank statement, a copy of the customer's contract, or a copy of one or two W-2 forms, if needed.


Employment and credit checks are usually the longest, which is why most applications take up to 72 hours. The processing time for rental applications varies from property to property, so be sure to check with them to get the best valuation.


5 Figure out if you need a co-signer


The co-signer is a person with good reputation as a voluntary guarantor. If your credit is bad or your credit history is insufficient, he or she will be legally responsible for paying your rent in case you are not willing.


A co-signer or guarantor can intervene when the first time renter is unable to keep track of the lease history or promises monthly rent and bill payment. If your monthly income is less than three times the rent, you may need one. You can also think of a joint signature as a way to enhance your application and increase your chances of getting approval. Think of it as an extra recommendation.


6. Show them that you are a flattering renter.


Usually, the landlord wants to know what type of tenant you are from the previous landlord. Are you a bit noisy? Are you following the pet policy? All of this is usually a letter from the former landlord, although it is usually not needed, but you may want to include a letter of recommendation from the landlord on the application form as an alternative way to increase your chances of getting approval, or simply apply yourself and other applications. People are separated. For some properties, you may even find it necessary to do so.


7. Have a good personal recommendation letter


Personal recommendations can bring all the differences, and good personal recommendations can affect or destroy an app, especially if you don't have a rental record. Much like the landlord's recommendation, this means someone is guaranteeing your character and reliability. Although the landlord reference is a good benchmark for future landlords, personal references may come from a friend or colleague who knows you and can prove your integrity.


8. Signing a lease


You have passed the application process, checked the house, checked the parking space, quickly recorded the neighbors, and carefully checked the basic list that you must do before you submit the new apartment. It's time to sign a lease!