Apartment hunting can be a unique process for everyone. With different kinds of residences available in your desired area, choosing the right one will likely involve creating your own list of wants and needs. But before you move in, your prospective landlord or property management company has to decide if this will be a good fit for them as well. This is known as the apartment application process, and nearly all listings you see will have one. Let’s look at this system in more detail.
Fill Out the Application
This application gives your potential landlord a comprehensive view of you as a possible renter. It will ensure you can meet the financial obligations of rent and any specific, preferential credentials they have for you as a tenant. The application process can vary based on your region and landlord, but often covers information such as the following:
- Photo ID (a copy of your driver’s license or passport)
- Letter of employment
- Copies of your last three pay stubs
- Tax returns from the two prior years
- Vehicle information (if any)
- Pet information (if any)
Ensure that you review what documents are needed before submitting the application so you can fully complete it. You may want to consider including a cover letter in case you have anything in your history that might be a red flag, such as poor credit.
Anticipate Credit and Background Checks
Once you have completed the application, the landlord may perform both a credit and background check. This can further assure them that you can be a reliable and reputable renter. While some other provinces may ask for an application fee to cover these costs, rental owners are prohibited from doing so in Ontario.
Maintain Quality References
If you have rented before, it is a good idea to have the info of a previous landlord on hand, such as a reference, to speak to your integrity as a tenant. If not, a good friend or colleague should be able to discuss your character and dependability as a person. This is to demonstrate that who you are on paper aligns with who you will be as an occupant.
Signing the Lease
Once submitted, your application will need to be processed. While the landlord is not under any obligation to inform you if you have been denied, they will reach out if the application is accepted. Ensure you read over the lease agreement they send, and only sign if comfortable with its terms and conditions. Just because you applied, it doesn’t mean that you are obligated to sign the lease!
With the convenience of the internet, you can typically apply online for an apartment. This streamlined process ensures that even if you aren’t available to fill out a paper application, anyone interested has the opportunity to live in a space. At CLV Group and InterRent REIT, all of our apartments are listed on our website, and our application requirements are region-specific, and make applying easy. If you have any questions about this process, please contact us. We’re happy to assist!
