RentPapersTenant Guide
How to Get Approved for an Apartment
Everything landlords look for in a rental application—and exactly how to position yourself as the ideal tenant.
What landlords actually look for
Landlords want one thing: confidence that you'll pay rent on time and take care of the property. Here's how they evaluate your application:
Income requirement
Most landlords require gross monthly income of 2.5-3x the rent. For a $2,000/month apartment, you'd need to show $5,000-6,000/month in income.
Tip: If you're close but not quite there, a co-signer or guarantor can help bridge the gap.
Credit score
Landlords typically want a credit score of 620-700+, though this varies. Some smaller landlords are more flexible than large property management companies.
Tip: If your credit is below 620, offer a larger security deposit or get a co-signer.
Rental history
Landlords will contact your previous landlords to ask about payment history, lease violations, and whether you left in good standing.
Tip: If you have a gap or a previous issue, address it proactively in your application.
Background check
Most landlords run criminal background checks. Felonies, especially recent ones, can be disqualifying—but laws vary by state.
Tip: Some states limit how far back landlords can look. Know your rights.
Employment verification
Stable employment signals you'll be able to pay rent consistently. Job-hoppers or gaps in employment may need to provide extra documentation.
Tip: New job? An offer letter showing your salary can substitute for pay stubs.
Application dos and don'ts
Small details can make the difference between approval and rejection. Here's what to do (and avoid):
Do
- Apply early—good apartments go fast
- Have all documents ready before you apply
- Be honest about your situation (credit, rental history, pets)
- Follow up within 24-48 hours if you haven't heard back
- Offer to pay a larger deposit if you have credit concerns
- Get references from previous landlords in advance
- Write a brief cover letter introducing yourself
Don't
- Don't apply to apartments you can't afford
- Don't lie on your application—landlords verify everything
- Don't submit incomplete applications
- Don't badmouth previous landlords
- Don't wait until the last minute to gather documents
- Don't ignore your credit report—check it before applying
The secret to faster approvals
Landlords review dozens of applications. The ones that stand out have everything organized and ready to review immediately. No missing documents, no follow-up emails, no delays.
Build a reusable tenant profile
RentPapers lets you upload all your documents once and share them with a single link. Landlords get a complete, organized view of your application—which means faster decisions and fewer back-and-forth emails.
Frequently asked questions
What credit score do I need to rent an apartment?
Most landlords prefer 620-700+, but this varies widely. Smaller landlords and individual property owners are often more flexible than large property management companies. If your credit is lower, you can offset it with a co-signer, larger deposit, or proof of strong income.
How much income do I need to rent an apartment?
The standard requirement is 2.5-3x the monthly rent in gross (pre-tax) income. For a $1,500 apartment, you'd need to show $3,750-4,500/month in income. Combined household income counts if you have roommates.
Can I get approved with no rental history?
Yes, but you may need to provide additional documentation: a co-signer, larger security deposit, proof of strong income, or references from employers or previous living situations (even informal ones like living with family).
How long does apartment approval take?
Most landlords make decisions within 1-3 business days. Large property management companies with automated systems may approve same-day. The faster you submit a complete application, the faster you'll hear back.
What happens if I get denied?
Ask the landlord why you were denied—they're required to tell you if it was credit-related. Use that feedback to improve your application for the next property. Consider looking at properties with more flexible requirements or getting a co-signer.