How to Qualify to Rent a Home

Whether due to employment relocation or just a desire to reside in a new dwelling, qualifying to rent a home doesn't have to be a hassle. Preparing to follow and meet qualification instructions and standards can save you time once you find the home that's right for your situation. Although rental procedures vary between leasing authorities, following a few general guidelines can increase your chances of being approved for the rental home of your choice.

Instructions

1. Read each agency's minimum qualification standards before applying to rent a home. Know the details of your credit report to avoid surprises in the application process. Try to settle past debts at least 6 months prior to submitting a rental application. Some agencies refuse to rent to tenants that have a certain number of adverse credit incidents. Ensure that you meet minimum age requirements and that you also posses valid state-issued identification.

2. Gather supporting financial documentation for applicable household members. Many rental agencies request the last 2 to 3 months of pay stubs to help establish your ability to make timely monthly payments. The monthly price of your intended rental home is then viewed against your gross monthly household income. Most rental agencies require that your monthly rent is no more than 40 percent of your household's gross monthly income. If you're self employed, you may be asked to provide tax information from the previous tax year.

3. Compile an updated list of your previous addresses to cover at least 5 to 7 years prior to the rental application date. Many rental agencies also request your current landlord's contact information to help establish your behavior as a tenant. Consider asking for letters of recommendation to further establish your rental worthiness. Make amends with former landlords to avoid negative feedback.

4. Submit a completed, legible rental application to the leasing authority. Return the application in the manner requested, which may include in-person, fax, or email submission methods. Use a black or blue ball point pen if you're handwriting the application to help prevent smears and stray marks. Heavy competition for available, affordable rental homes makes it even more important to get your application right the first time. Include any requested documentation with the application to ensure swift processing and decision making.

5. Pay associated rental costs, fees, and deposits as requested. Failure to pay these fees by the specified dates makes any previous agreements invalid. Bring a money order or personal check as most rental agencies won't accept cash as payment.

Tips & Warnings

• If you've been working for less than 2 to 3 months, you may be required to have your employer sign a statement disclosing your gross monthly wages. You may be asked to pay a larger security deposit if your credit history isn't deemed as acceptable.

• Never fabricate information on a rental application. This could lead to adverse situations even if you do get qualified to rent the home you desire.