You searched online, perused countless photos and videos, and now you’re ready to apply! So far, you are rocking the at-home apartment search. But now that you have some apartments you’re interested in, what’s the next step in your online journey? Filling out your apartment application online is easy and can be a faster alternative to visiting the property in person. Here are a few things you’ll want to be aware of throughout the apartment application process.
How to Apply for an Apartment Online in 5 Steps
Applying for an apartment doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. In fact, applying online makes the journey from application to signing a lease even easier. Before you start your application, follow these five steps to help make sure you’re on the right track.
- Choose the properties where you want to apply
- Tour the properties virtually or in person before applying
- Contact the property or leasing agent to express your interest
- Gather your application documents and information
- Submit your application and application fee
After you complete these five steps, the property reviews your application and makes a decision. The application process can take anywhere from a couple of days to a week or longer depending on the property’s review process and demand for the unit.
Before you play the apartment application waiting game, below is a more in-depth look at the different stages of the application process.
Narrow Down Your Apartment Options
After you’ve narrowed down the properties you’re interested in, the next step is to tour them! If you haven’t visited the different properties yet, you can find tour options when you visit the property page on Apartments.com. To schedule a tour on Apartments.com, select the “Schedule Tour” button and fill out the requested information, such as your name, email address, and preferred move-in date. Some listings even have integrated tour scheduling, where you can easily choose a date and time that works for you directly on the property listing page. Whatever you decide, scheduling a tour and submitting your interest to a property is easy using Apartments.com.
There are several tour options to choose from, such as a 3D tour, virtual tour, or in-person tour. 3D tours and videos are uploaded by the property on Apartments.com using Matterport 3D technology and can be viewed as often as you’d like. You’ll have to schedule a virtual tour with the property manager, just as you would for an in-person tour. This option allows you to talk directly with the property manager and ask questions as they guide you through the apartment via a mobile device.
There’s another kind of tour you might see: a self-guided tour. This option isn’t as common, but if you do come across it, the property manager may have a unit with a lockbox or special code designed for touring. You’ll request the code, let yourself in, and tour the apartment on your own. This might be a model unit rather than the unit you’ll rent, but it can give you a good idea of the room sizes and layout of the apartment.
Contact the Property and Request an Apartment Application
Now that you’ve toured your top choices, it’s time to apply. After you tour, most properties explain the next steps in the application process. The easiest way to apply is to submit the application online through the property’s website or call the property and let them know you’re interested. After your application is submitted and the application fee is paid, the property reviews your application.
How to Apply for an Apartment Using Apartments.com
If the property you want to apply for has a listing on Apartments.com and participates in the online application program, you can apply online on the Apartments.com website. All you have to do is go to the property listing page on Apartments.com, find the unit you’re interested in, and select the “Apply Now” button.
Some properties participate in an Apartments.com program that allows you to apply to up to ten different rental properties without having to pay an application fee each time you apply. All you need to do is pay $32.00 (plus tax) and your application is saved for 30 days, allowing you to apply to multiple properties that have this feature enabled. You’ll only have to fill out the application one time, saving you time and money if you plan to apply to more than one rental property. After you submit your application, it’s securely shared with the property’s owner or manager, and Apartments.com alerts them to view your application.
If you prefer to contact the property through email, navigate to the property listing page on Apartments.com, select the “Send Message” button, fill out your information, then select the “Request Application” button at the bottom of the pop-up window. This sends your interest to the property and lets them know that you want to apply.
If you plan to rent with a roommate, you’ll need your roommate’s email address when you fill out the initial application. They are invited to apply with you through Apartments.com, and your information is grouped together on the application for property owners to view.
What Information Do I Need to Apply for an Apartment?
You’ll want to gather a few things before filling out an online apartment application. Here are some of the details and documents the application might require you to submit:
- Your name and contact information
- Your preferred move-in date
- Any co-applicants (such as a roommate) and the names of anyone who will be living with you
- Information about your pets
- Your rental history
- Past addresses
- Employment details
- Proof of income
- Identification information (including your government-issued ID and Social Security number)
- Vehicle information
- References
How Long Does It Take for an Apartment Application to Be Reviewed?
Now, you just wait to see if your application is approved. The application review process takes between three and five business days but can take longer depending on the property’s process and demand for the unit. During the approval process, the property will likely run a credit and background check and verify your income. When the results are in, the property may approve or deny your application or ask for a guarantor (or co-signer).
If your application is denied, the property is usually required to provide an explanation on why it was denied. This can be because of a poor or missing credit history, failed background checks, or past rental evictions. If you think that your application was denied unfairly, you can write an appeal letter disputing the denial.
If you submitted an application through the Apartments.com “Apply” option, you can check the status of your application under Renter Tools. You’ll find this option in the top left menu on Apartments.com. If you still have questions about applying online, visit the Apartments.com Help Center.
Make the Apartment Application Process Easier with Apartments.com
Whether you want to tour an apartment, apply online, or do both, Apartments.com is your best resource throughout the apartment search and application process. With integrated tour scheduling and online applications, Apartments.com makes it easy to find an apartment that works for you and helps you move through the application process efficiently. Apartments.com is here for you from discovery to move-in day.
This article was originally published on April 9, 2020 by Alecia Pirulis and has been updated.
FAQs
How much does it cost to apply for an apartment online?
The cost of an application fee varies from property to property, but fees can range from $30 to $150 depending on the property type and number of applicants.
If you use Apartments.com to apply, you can pay a one-time fee of $32.00 (plus tax) and apply for 10 different rental properties with no added application fee. To learn more about this program, visit the Apartments.com Apply Online page.
Can I apply to more than one apartment online with the same application?
If you apply to multiple properties, their application requirements may differ. Before you submit an application, make sure you have all the correct information listed on the application.
Apartments.com allows renters to apply to up to 10 participating properties with the same application. All you have to do is fill out the application one time, and Apartments.com stores your information for future use.
What happens after I submit my apartment application?
After you submit an apartment application, the property reviews your information and makes a decision. Factors that may be considered as part of the application process include employment, income, credit history, rental history, and information from a background check.
How long does it take to hear back after applying online?
It often takes three to five business days to hear back from a property after submitting an application. Sometimes, the review process can take longer if the property needs more information to complete the process or the apartment you applied for is in high demand.
