Buying or renting a property is exciting but can also be time-consuming and nerve-racking. Being prepared when you are ready to start your search can speed up the process and when you find a place that you want to call home, your purchase offer, loan application or rental application are more likely to be accepted with little to no delays. I have compiled a list of things below that are generally required for both buyers and tenants.

RENTING AN APARTMENT OR HOUSE

Completed rental application
I usually provide this form to clients at the beginning of their rental search. It should be completed by each adult over the age of 18 who will be occupying the rental property.

Credit report with FICO score
If the prospective tenant can provide a complete credit report then many landlords will accept it and not require an additional credit check.

Proof of income and/or employment
Each landlord is different and most only require 30 days worth of paystubs. If you are planning to rent from a property management company, they may request documentation to prove a longer employment and income history.

Proof of funds for move-in costs
Typically you will be required to provide 60 days of bank statements or other documentation to show you can cover all of the costs to move-in. This can include first and last month’s rent, standard deposit and pet deposit.

Description and photos of any animals that will be occupying the property
Always be sure to disclose whether or not any pets will be moving in with you. This will ensure that no problems arise during the course of your rental agreement which can include eviction if pets are not allowed. Deposits are also generally required for each pet.

PURCHASING AND LOAN APPROVAL

Pre-approval letter
You can obtain a pre-approval letter through your bank, credit union, lender, Broker or Loan Officer. The names of each purchaser of the property must match those on the pre-approval.

Proof of funds
This can include bank and retirement account statements showing sufficient funds to cover the down payment and closing costs.

Proof of income
Paystubs, W-2, 1099, award letter for retirement or social security benefits to show steady income and assist in calculating debt to income ratio.

Credit report
Lender will pull your credit report reflecting FICO score from all three credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion and Experian) within 30 days from the start of the application. In some cases, they may even need to pull a second report if the process including close of Escrow exceeds 30 days. One thing to also keep in mind is not to make any purchases like a car or unnecessarily use of credit cards because it can affect your credit score during the process.

I am here to help you in your search through all stages of the process whether you are renting or buying and answer any of your questions or concerns along the way. You can e-mail me at emilie@emiliebroughton.com or simply visit my contact page here.