Application Criteria

Before we approve a rental application, we review a few key areas: income, credit history, rental history, and background. This article explains what we look for so you can decide if applying makes sense for you.

We want you in a home that truly fits your situation. Clear criteria help you avoid wasting time and money on an application that won’t work, and they help us protect owners, neighbors, and you from preventable problems down the road.

1. Income & Stability

   1. We generally look for verifiable monthly income of around 3x the monthly rent for the household.

   2. Income can come from employment, self-employment, retirement, disability, vouchers, or other verifiable sources.

   3. We verify income via pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, or award letters.

2. Credit History

   1. We review your overall credit profile, not just a single score.

   2. Major concerns include: unpaid housing-related debts, utility collections, or a pattern of serious delinquencies.

   3. Limited or no credit history isn’t an automatic denial, but we may ask for additional documentation or a higher deposit where allowed.

3. Rental History

   1. We may contact current and previous landlords to confirm on-time payments, lease compliance, and proper notice.

   2. Recent evictions, repeated late payments, lease violations, or unpaid balances with prior landlords are strong risk factors.

4. Background Checks

   1. We run a background screening consistent with local and federal laws.

   2. Certain recent criminal convictions — especially those related to violence, drugs, or property damage — may affect a decision, but we consider context and timing.

5. Occupancy & Household Details

   1. We follow local occupancy rules and consider safety and wear-and-tear on the property.

   2. Everyone 18 or older who will live in the home must submit a separate application and screening.

6. Additional Factors

   1. Pets and animals: See our Pet Policy and Service Animals & ESAs for how they’re handled.

   2. Co-signers/guarantors (if allowed): Must also meet income and screening standards.

   3. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may be delayed or denied.

Everyone is welcome to apply. But if you have a specific concern (such as past late payments, a medical collection, or an old eviction), you’re welcome to reach out with a brief explanation before applying. We can’t guarantee approval, but we can tell you which areas will be of concern and what you can do about them.

• Next Steps After Your Application Is Approved – See what happens after you get the green light.

• Rental Agreement Overview – Understand the big-picture terms you’ll agree to if approved.

• Renter’s Insurance Requirements – Learn why we require insurance and what policies must include.

• How to Set Up Utilities – Plan ahead so your move-in day goes smoothly.

• Creating a Financial Foundation – Tips to build healthy money habits as a renter.