How Long Do Apartment Applications Take?

The approval of an application for an apartment typically takes between 1-3 business days. However, there are a few ways you can speed this process up if you are in a pinch.

How Long Do Apartment Applications Take To Be Approved?

On average, you can expect to have your application either approved or denied within 1-3 business days, as previously mentioned. Once you pick an apartment you want to live in, you can request the application. If there is no online application, you should contact the leasing agent or landlord to receive a paper application.

Once you have filled out the application, you will usually have to pay an application and/or admin fee. Ensure you have followed all instructions and submitted everything that is required.

Typically, anyone filling out an apartment application will need to include the following things:

• Current address.
• Contact information.
• Social security number.
• Driver’s license number.
• Previous address.
• Proof of employment.
• Vehicle information.
• Pet information.
• Names of co-applicants or others who will live in the apartment.

How To Get Your Application Approved Quickly

There are a few things you can do below to ensure your application process goes as smoothly as possible.

Have Your Documents Ready

Collect all the documents you may need for this process. The necessary documents typically include:

• Employment verification letter, paystubs, or W2s.
• Letters of recommendation from previous landlords or employers.

If you have any pets, you may need to provide additional documentation like health and vaccination records. Some apartments may have breed and/or weight restrictions for pets.

Determine If You Need A Cosigner Or Guarantor

You may need a cosigner or guarantor if you have bad credit, lack a credit history, or simply don’t make enough money for the apartment’s specifications. A cosigner or guarantor can be anyone who can vouch for you financially and make payments for you if you fall behind on rent.

The main difference between a guarantor and a cosigner is the fact that a cosigner can live in your apartment if you choose.

Provide References

Your landlord could ask you to provide personal references with your application. The letter can either be from a previous landlord or employer.

Your employer can vouch for your work ethic, while your landlord can speak about you paying rent on time and upholding the lease.

Prepare For A Background Check

Landlords perform background checks to see a potential tenant’s credit, criminal background, and past evictions, if applicable.

If there are any blips on your record, explaining the issue to your landlord is best before it is uncovered during a background check.

Have Proof Of Income

Your new landlord must confirm that you have the necessary finances to pay rent each month. Most times, a renter is required to make three times the cost of monthly rent in order to qualify for the apartment.

If you have issues finding an apartment to meet the required income, you may need a guarantor or cosigner.

How Much Are Apartment Application Fees?

Because property owners can only get these reports through third-party companies, they will charge prospective tenants a rental application fee to cover this cost. As mentioned, most application fees will fall between $30-$75, according to Azibo. However, some states like Arizona feature no cap on application fees.

All landlords need to be very clear when they are charging a nonrefundable fee by putting it in writing. If a landlord never put it in writing that your application fee was nonrefundable, you have the right to request your money back.

*Eagle Ridge Apartments in Peoria, AZ currently charges an application fee of $50 per person. Contact our team today to learn more!