PREPARING YOURSELF FOR THE APPLICATION PROCESS
As you begin your search, keep in mind that landlords or buildings may request the following, so getting ahead can help you move quickly.
1) BASIC INFORMATION
Government-issued photo ID
Full legal name, date of birth, and contact information
Current and prior address history
2) FINANCIAL DOCUMENTATION
Recent bank statements
Recent brokerage or investment account statements
Pay stubs
Tax returns and/or W-2s / 1099s
Offer letter or employment letter
CPA letter if self-employed
Documentation of any additional income sources
3) CREDIT AND SCREENING
Be prepared for a credit and background check
Make sure your credit is unlocked if frozen.
Have a credit card ready for any permitted screening fee
4) HOUSING HISTORY
Current landlord or managing agent contact information
Landlord reference letter confirming payment history and tenancy dates
If you currently own, be prepared to explain your ownership history instead
PREPARING YOURSELF FOR THE APPLICATION PROCESS
As you begin your search, keep in mind that landlords or buildings may request the following, so getting ahead can help you move quickly.
5) REFERENCES
Professional references: Usually two references (work colleagues, coworkers, etc.)
Personal references: Usually two references (friends, contacts in personal network, not family)
6) OTHER HELPFUL ITEMS
Emergency contact information
Pet information and any related documentation, if applicable (i.e. emotional support)
Guarantor documents, if a guarantor may be needed
Income documentation
Asset statements
Credit readiness
Tax returns / CPA letter if applicable
FOR CONDO OR CO-OP RENTALS
In some cases, buildings may require a more extensive package that can include a financial statement, supporting bank and brokerage documentation, reference letters, application forms, riders, disclosures, and building-specific acknowledgements.
The strongest applications are usually the ones that are prepared in advance. Having these materials organized early can make it much easier to move quickly when the right apartment comes up.
