The Rental Process
1. Decide Whether to Use a Real Estate Agent for Your Rental Search
Finding a rental home on your own can be time-consuming and frustrating. Many tenants get overwhelmed trying to search through outdated or limited listings online. By working with a real estate agent, you gain access to all rental properties listed on the MLS, including many that may not be visible on common real estate websites, which can often show outdated information.
An agent takes care of the legwork, finding up-to-date rental listings that match your needs. The best part? Agent fees are typically paid by the landlord, meaning these services are free for you!
To work with an agent, you’ll sign a Tenant Brokerage Agreement. This agreement confirms your commitment to work exclusively with that agent. It’s a fair arrangement since agents invest considerable time and resources—researching properties, scheduling showings, and covering travel expenses—to find your perfect home.
Some agents may charge a small retainer fee to cover initial costs. This fee is non-refundable if you don’t end up renting a property, but it is credited back to you once your application is approved and a rental agreement is signed.
2. Submitting a Rental Application
When you find a property you’re interested in, each adult (18+) planning to live there must complete a rental application. Your signed application allows the landlord to conduct background and credit checks.
Application fees typically range from $25 to $75 per applicant. Processing usually takes 2-3 days. If a prospective tenant has poor credit, some landlords may require a higher security deposit or first and last month’s rent upfront once the application is approved.
For example, if rent is $1,300 per month, the standard deposit is usually $1,300, totaling $2,600 to move in. With poor credit, you may be required to pay a double deposit ($1,300 + $1,300) plus the first month’s rent, resulting in $3,900 needed to move in.
3. First Month’s Rent & Security Deposit
Once your lease is approved, you’ll need to pay a deposit to hold the property. On your move-in date, you’ll pay your first month’s rent. Some landlords require both the deposit and first month’s rent to be paid when the lease is signed, before the move-in date.
Keep in mind that most landlords will only hold a property for up to 30 days after the deposit is paid, so be prepared to move within that timeframe
4. Pet Deposit / Pet Fee
If you have a pet, you’ll typically need to pay either a refundable pet deposit or a non-refundable pet fee. The amount varies depending on the property and the type of pet, and it’s usually determined on a case-by-case basis.
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Ready to Get Started with Home Living Solutions?
1. Run your background and credit check here: [Tenant Screening Services | Credit Check Rental | TransUnion SmartMove](https://www.mysmartmove.com).
2. Email the following documents to INFO@HOMELIVINGSOLUTION.COM:
- Credit report
- Background check
- Recent pay stubs (or tax returns for business owners)
- Driver’s License and Social Security cards for everyone 18 years or older
3. Email your rental preferences to INFO@HOMELIVINGSOLUTION.COM, including:
- Preferred zip codes or areas
- Desired monthly rent
- Move-in date
You’ll receive a curated list of available properties that match your criteria.
4. Select the properties you’re interested in viewing. Let us know if you prefer virtual tours or in-person showings. We’ll take care of the rest!