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Moving out of your parents’ house can be an exciting but nerve-wracking experience. As you start your rental application, you may be wondering how to present your current living situation in the best light. The key is being upfront, thorough, and responsible. Read on for tips to create a winning rental application that secures your first independent home.
Provide Complete Personal Details
First things first, you’ll need to include some basic personal information on your rental application. This includes:
- Your full legal name: Use the name that matches your ID documents.
- Your current address with parents: Be upfront about living at home.
- Your phone number and email: List the best number to reach you and an email you check regularly.
- Your date of birth: This helps verify your identity.
- ID documentation: Many landlords require a copy of a driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID.
Providing complete and accurate personal details builds trust with potential landlords and gets your application started on the right foot.
Showcase Your Financials
Your financial situation is key to securing a rental property. On your application, you’ll need to include:
- Employment details: List your current job along with start date, employer’s name and contact details. If unemployed, explain your situation.
- Other income: Note any supplemental income like family contributions, scholarships, or government assistance.
- Bank statements and tax returns: These help verify your income sources.
- Monthly expenses: Detail your existing payments like student loans, car loans, and credit cards so landlords can evaluate your ability to afford rent.
- Savings and assets: Bank account balances and any other assets demonstrate financial security.
Highlighting steady income streams and manageable expenses indicates you can handle rent payments. Having some savings is attractive too.
Share Your Rental History
If you’ve rented before, including your rental history builds credibility. List details like:
- Previous landlord names and contact info
- Rental property addresses
- Move in and move out dates
Having a track record of on-time payments and positive landlord references bolsters your application. If you don’t have rental history yet, that’s okay too.
Lean on References
References help landlords get a sense of who you are as a tenant. Good options include:
- Former employers who can vouch for your responsibility.
- Teachers who can highlight your character.
- Family friends who’ve seen you as a respectful guest.
Before listing someone as a reference, ask them first and explain you’re applying for a rental. References paint a well-rounded picture that you’re trustworthy.
Explain Your Reason for Moving Out
Briefly explaining why you’re eager to move out of your parents’ place can give landlords valuable context. Are you:
- Starting a new job nearby and wanting to be closer?
- Moving in with roommates to save on costs?
- Craving more independence as an adult?
Whatever your reason, be honest. It shows maturity.
Consider Adding a Co-signer
If your income and rental history are limited, having your parent co-sign the lease can get your application a green light. As co-signers, they’d be legally responsible for rent if you can’t pay. Landlords often require co-signers to meet credit and income requirements showing they can afford the apartment if needed. A co-signer provides landlords peace of mind.
Bonus Tips for Getting Approved
Beyond the basics, you can further boost your rental application by:
- Offering a larger security deposit – This extra upfront money guarantees you can cover any damages.
- Providing an explanation letter – Detail why you’d be a great tenant despite living at home.
- Highlighting responsibility – Note any jobs, volunteering, or leadership roles.
- Searching early – More options and bargaining power!
- Asking questions upfront – Makes sure a landlord will rent to you before applying. Saves time.
Going above and beyond demonstrates you’re a stellar tenant in waiting.
Mistakes to Avoid
While applying, be sure to steer clear of these common blunders:
- Hiding your living status out of embarrassment. Transparency is key.
- Submitting an incomplete application. Follow requirements closely.
- Missing listed deadlines. Stay organized.
- Exaggerating qualifications. Honesty is the best policy.
Keep your application truthful for smooth sailing.
FAQs About Rental Applications from Home
If you still have questions about tackling rental applications while under your parents’ roof, here are some frequently asked questions with answers:
Can I use my parents as references?
Yes, parents can serve as references to highlight your character if you don’t have rental history. Explain their connection in the application.
Can I list my parents as roommates?
You can, but it’s usually recommended to list actual roommates who’ll live with you. Be sure to check if the landlord allows parents as roommates first.
What should I avoid including?
Leave off any religious affiliation, political views, or medical information unless absolutely essential. Also refrain from giving reasons why you “deserve” the apartment. Stick to factual information.
Although renting your first place while still living under your parents’ roof may feel intimidating, being upfront and providing as much helpful information as possible on your rental application puts you on the path to getting approved. So take a deep breath, be prepared, and start picturing those apartment keys in your hand! You’ve so got this.