How to Qualify for a Rental

To qualify for a rental, you'll need to prove to the landlord that you can meet the terms and conditions of the lease.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Financial Calculator
• Credit Reports
• Real Estate Attorneys
• Notebooks
• Personal Organizers
• Writing Pens

1. Know the addresses of previous residences and have telephone numbers of previous landlords on hand when you start the application process. This is basic reference information that is always required. Include a copy of your credit report so each landlord does not pull a new report (which negatively affects your credit rating.)

2. Present yourself, your personal history and your ability to pay rent in a favorable light. This is particularly true if you're in a special situation - say you're a recently divorced woman who finds herself stretched financially; if you get alimony or child support from your ex, make sure the landlord understands this.

3. Be completely honest in all the information you give. If you supply false information, the landlord has just cause for denying your application. False information could even be cited as a reason to cancel the lease after you've signed it.

4. Be patient while you're waiting for your application to be processed. Normal processing time is between seven and 10 days.

5. Create a good first impression. Dress neatly and groom yourself well. You are trying to present an image of someone who the landlord would like to have living in their property.

Tips & Warnings

• Take action to clear up any unpaid rent issues with your previous landlords before you start filling out rental applications. Bargain with previous landlords if you still owe them money. Tell them you will pay everything you owe if they give you a good recommendation. A bad payment record is a big hindrance to finding another rental.

• Be ready to fork over between $25 and $40 for the application fee. This fee is used to cover application processing costs, such as credit checks.