The waiting period after submitting a rental application can be a nerve-wracking part of the process of renting a property. You begin to wonder if you’ve filled out all of the information accurately. Will your credit check pass? How long will it be until the landlord or property manager responds? How long does a rent application take?
In this article, we explain the rental application timeline by examining the variables that affect the duration and what to anticipate at each stage.
Whether you are a first-time renter or a seasoned pro, knowing the duration and complexities of the application process will help you plan more effectively and alleviate your anxiety.
How Long Does A Rent Application Take?
You can anticipate waiting between 2 and 5 days on average. However, the length of time it takes to process a rental application depends on a number of variables, such as the landlord’s or property management company’s policies, the responsiveness of your references, and your ability to provide required documentation swiftly.
Here are some general guidelines:
Typical Steps in a Rental Application and Time Involved
- Filling Out the Application:
- Typically, you will be required to provide your name, contact information, current and previous addresses, employment information, income level, and references. Some forms additionally request a rental history.
- Having all of this information on hand, perhaps in a document on your phone or computer, can save you time when completing multiple applications.
- Credit and Background Checks:
- The landlord will typically use a third-party service to verify your credit score, criminal record, and sometimes your rental history.
- You can expedite the process by providing a recent copy of your credit report, although some landlords may insist on conducting their own.
- Employment and Income Verification:
- This typically entails the landlord contacting your current employer to verify your employment and income. Additionally, you may be required to submit recent pay receipts or a tax return.
- Time-Saving Tip: Having pay receipts and a letter of employment on hand can expedite this process.
- Contacting References:
- It involves contacting your references to verify your dependability, financial stability, and overall suitability as a tenant.
- Time-Saving Tip: Inform your references in advance that they may be contacted in order for them to be prepared to respond quickly.
- Property-Specific Factors:
- Some landlords have their own criteria or approval processes, which can either accelerate or drag down the application process.
- Time-Saving Tip: If the landlord is eager to swiftly fill a vacancy, being flexible about move-in dates can sometimes work in your favor.
- Final Approval and Lease Signing:
- After approval, you will typically be required to review and sign a lease agreement and pay a security deposit, if applicable.
- Time-Saving Tip: If possible, reviewing the lease terms in advance can expedite the process by allowing you to swiftly sign once approval is granted.
Overall Timeframe:
- Fastest Scenario: In the most streamlined scenario, you might get approval within a few hours to a day.
- Average Scenario: On average, you can expect to wait around 2 to 5 days.
- Longest Scenario: In some cases, it can take up to a week or more, especially if there are complications like difficulties in reaching your references or verifying your information.
Additional Ways to Speed Up the Process:
- Be Prepared: Being prepared is the most effective method to expedite the rental application process. Have both digital and physical copies of all required documentation so that you can provide whatever is required promptly.
- Prompt Responses: If the landlord or rental agency contacts you for additional information, attempt to respond promptly in order to keep the process moving.
- Follow-up: A polite phone call or email to inquire about the status of your application can demonstrate your interest and potentially advance the process.
- Apply Online: Digital applications are typically processed more rapidly than paper applications, particularly if the property management company uses software to automate some of the approval steps.
By being organized and proactive, you can expedite the application process for a rental property.
Bottom Line
This was all about how long does a rent application take. The length of time it takes to process a rental application depends on a number of variables, including the landlord’s efficacy, the completeness of your application, and the rental market’s current demand.
Some applications may be approved within a couple of days, while others may take a week or longer. Preparedness, submission of a complete application, and proactive communication can speed up the process.
Thank you for reading!
Learn more: Where To Look For Houses For Rent?