Applying for an Apartment: How To Make A Good Impression

When applying for an apartment that has a lot of prospective tenants, one of the best things you can do is make a good impression on your potential landlord. Making a good impression can not only help the application process to go smoothly, but also makes your landlord want you as a tenant!

Be on time: Leasing coordinators are very busy people, always taking phone calls, going to showings, and answering questions. When you schedule a showing, make sure you are on time to prevent them from running behind schedule. 

Double check requirements: Most landlords have requirements in place for prospective tenants. Having knowledge of your monthly income and credit score can help you to understand applications and only apply for units you will qualify for. 

Be kind: When talking to your landlord on the phone or meeting them for showings, one of the most important things is to be kind! Being rude or unfriendly can create a bad impression before you even move in. 

Introduce yourself: Leasing coordinators and landlords speak to many people every day regarding available apartments. Taking the time to introduce yourself at a showing can help to make a lasting impression and help your landlord get to know you as a person. 

Know what you’re looking for: Before searching for an apartment, it’s best to outline what you’re looking for in terms of budget, size and amenities. Searching online within the parameters that work for you can prevent wasted time going to showings for apartments that don’t fit your needs. 

Be honest: Landlords often run credit and background checks on applicants, as well as verifying income. Make sure to be honest when filling out these sections on an application to prevent a surprise down the road that will complicate the process. 

Be patient: Approving a tenant takes time! Make sure to allow for time when your potential landlord is reviewing your application for approval. Rushing them and expecting an immediate response only makes the process more difficult. 

Have realistic expectations: Before starting your search for apartments, it is important to understand rental rates in your area of the city. It’s not realistic to expect a brand new, huge apartment for a cheap price. Looking online can help to tell you the size and condition of the apartments within your price range to find the best fit for you. 

Give yourself time: Your lack of preparation is not our emergency! When moving into a new apartment, make sure to give yourself enough time to go through the application process and transition between living arrangements. 

When considering how to make a good impression, put yourself in your landlord’s shoes. Consider who you would want to rent your home to, and act accordingly!