Applying for a new apartment is exciting. Once you’ve taken a deep breath, read over your application, and pressed send, a wave of relief follows. However, after this first step is behind you, what comes next? When will you know whether you’re approved?
On average, it takes one to three business days for an apartment application to get approval. However, if your application is missing key information or raises red flags, the process could take even longer.
To avoid potential delays and ensure the smoothest approval process possible, we’ve created a comprehensive rental application guide discussing submission tips, mistakes to avoid, and overall, what to expect for the apartment approval process.
Here’s a preview of what we’ll cover:
- How to submit a rental application
- Factors affecting the approval timeline
- Financial considerations for rental applications
- Tips for quick apartment approvals
- Common approval delays and how to avoid them
Submitting Your Rental Application
Once you’ve found your winning apartment, the first step is to apply. Most listings will allow you to apply online, which is most people’s preferred method. However, if there isn’t an online application option, you can contact the landlord or property directly to inquire about applying.
While application criteria might slightly vary across properties, expect to provide the following information in your application:
- Your name and contact information
- Your preferred move-in date
- Any co-applicants (i.e., a roommate) and the names of anyone who will be living with you
- Information about your pets
- Your residence history
- Employment and income details
- Identification information (including your SSN or ITIN number for a credit/background check)
- Vehicle information
- References
After you have filled out the application, you will typically have to pay an application and/or admin fee. Make sure you follow all instructions and submit everything that is required. Not properly following directions could result in approval delays.
Factors Affecting Approval Timelines
There are several factors that come into play when it comes to approval timelines. Is there a lot of interest in the property? Are your references quick to respond? Is there potential that your background check is flagged? These are all questions to ask before setting expectations for your application approval.
So, before you grow too impatient, consider the following factors when estimating your timeline:
Completeness and accuracy of the application
The completeness and accuracy of your application largely impact the speed of the approval process. If there’s a necessary document missing or a section left blank, your landlord or property manager will have to reach back out, inevitably delaying the approval timeline.
To ensure you don’t encounter this obstacle during the application process, make sure to triple-check your application before hitting submit. Confirm that all the required documents are uploaded/attached, your personal information is correct, and all sections are filled out completely.
Number of applicants
Property demand also affects how quickly you can get approved. If the unit has many interested applicants, the landlord will likely wait until they’ve collected and reviewed all applications before making a final decision. In this case, it’s important to submit your application as early as possible to increase your chances of being considered.
Reference response time
If your application required references, there’s a chance that things may move a little slower. Depending on your reference’s availability and promptness, it may take them some time to get back to your landlord. The longer they take, the longer it’ll be till you get approved. So, before listing a reference for your application, make sure to give them a heads-up. If they’re expecting a call or email, they’ll be more alert and responsive.
Background checks
Many apartment communities use third-party screeners to conduct applicant background checks. Often, these external platforms can have delayed processing times, elongating the approval process. If days have passed since you applied, don’t stress! Any delays are likely a result of the lengthy background check process.
Financial Considerations
In addition to the factors listed above, there are also several financial components that affect the application approval process. From proof of income to application deposits, here’s a look at some financial considerations to account for as you submit your rental application:
Proof of income
You will be asked to provide proof of income when applying for an apartment. This can be one of many documents, including pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, offer letters, or a proof of income letter written by your employer.
Failing to provide adequate proof of income will result in approval delays or potentially application denial. So, to avoid any hiccups, make sure to have your proof of income ready to go before you even start the application. Doing so will ensure a quicker and smoother application and approval process.
Application fees
When applying for an apartment, you’ll have to submit an application deposit. Most landlords require this to verify your interest in the property, meaning they expect you to follow through if there’s money on the line. On average, these fees range anywhere from $25-$100, depending on the unit and location. Make sure to have this money set aside as you apply, or your application will not be considered.
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Security deposit
Lastly, we have the security deposit. This is the refundable money you pay to cover any potential loss or damage to the property. Generally, a security deposit is one month’s rent. Depending on your monthly rent, this could mean paying a good chunk of change up front. So, just make sure to budget ahead of time so that you can pay your security deposit upon moving in.
Tips To Help You Get Your Apartment Application Approved Quickly
To help you get your apartment approved as soon as possible, follow these tips:
Have your documents ready
Before you even begin your application, you must collect all your documents, which may include the following:
- Paystubs, employment verification letters, or W2s
- Letters of recommendation from employers and previous landlords
If you have pets, you may have to provide additional documentation, such as health and vaccination records, as well as a note from your vet telling them what breed your pet is and how much they weigh since some apartments have breed and weight restrictions.
Prepare for the background check
Landlords often conduct background checks to review your credit history, past evictions, and criminal record. If there are any issues on your record, it’s best to address them upfront. Providing an explanation in person or through a well-written letter can help clarify the situation before the landlord discovers it on their own.
Determine if you need a cosigner or guarantor
If you have bad credit, lack a credit history, or don't make enough money, you may need to provide a guarantor or cosigner. A guarantor or cosigner can be a family member, a friend or even a third-party service who can vouch for you financially and make payments on rent if you fall behind. But be sure to choose if you would like a guarantor or cosigner because a guarantor isn't entitled to occupy an apartment, while a cosigner can live in your apartment and be a roommate if you choose.
Provide the proper references
When applying for a rental, your landlord may request a reference as part of your application. This reference can come from an employer or a previous landlord. An employer can vouch for your work ethic, while a former landlord can confirm your history of paying rent on time, maintaining the property, and adhering to the lease terms. Although you can provide references from friends or family, they may be perceived as biased. It’s best to choose someone who can credibly speak to your reliability and sense of responsibility.
Follow up
After you have completed and submitted your application with all the proper documents, you can usually expect to hear back within one to three business days, depending on if you submitted your application online, in person, or through the mail.
To better understand how long you will have to wait, ask when you submit your application. If the landlord or leasing office has any additional questions about your application or needs to confirm any details, they will contact you. If you haven't heard back in three business days, follow up to get an estimated wait time and ensure they have no additional questions.
Common Delays and How to Avoid Them
Everybody makes mistakes, and sometimes they happen when applying for an apartment. While small errors can be rectified and still result in approval, glaring ones could have bigger consequences. To ensure a smooth approval process and minimize the risk of rejection, be aware of these common mistakes:
Incomplete or incorrect information
As mentioned earlier, completeness and accuracy are vital to a successful approval process. Leaving key sections blank or providing false information will inevitably cause delays or even flat-out denial. To ensure your application is flawless, take the time to carefully review it before submitting. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member to double-check it for you, providing an extra layer of confidence that everything is in order.
Insufficient funds
Insufficient funds are another surefire way to delay the approval process. If your payment doesn’t clear for the application fee or security deposit, your application will likely be placed on hold until the issue is resolved. Be sure to have enough funds in your account and double-check that all necessary fees are paid before submitting your application.
Applying on a Friday
Applying for an apartment on a Friday might seem like no big deal, but it’s worth noting that it could delay your response time. Submitting your application at the end of the workweek often means you won’t hear back for three to four days. Why? Most landlords and property managers won’t review applications until the next business day, which is typically Monday.
If you’re not in a hurry, applying on a Friday is perfectly fine. However, if you’re looking for a faster response, consider submitting your application earlier in the week to avoid delays.
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This article was originally published on September 8, 2023, by Helen Wells.
FAQs
What can cause delays in an apartment application approval?
There are several factors that can cause delays in the approval process, including:
- Incomplete Application – An incomplete application is the biggest cause of delay for a rental application. Be sure to provide all the details and submit all necessary documentation.
- Gaps in your financial history – If you have any gaps in your financial history, such as a low credit history, then explain this to your landlord to provide any information and clarity. Again, you may need a cosigner or guarantor if you have gaps in your financial history to show the landlord you are a trustworthy potential tenant.
- A high volume of applications – During the summer or back to school season there can be an influx of applications. Therefore, you could be waiting a few weeks instead of a few days.
What happens when I am approved or denied?
No matter your landlord's decision, they will call or email you to inform you. If you get approved, congrats! Your landlord should inform you of your next steps, such as paying the security deposit and signing the lease. If your application was denied, you should receive a call or an email informing you why your application was denied.
Can I reapply for the apartment if I am denied?
Depending on your situation, you can reapply if your rental application is denied. You can use a cosigner or guarantor if you were rejected because of low income or low credit.
But if you were denied due to your rental history, such as having past evictions, you might want to consider alternatives, such as renting from a private landlord who will be more willing to work with you.
