• Set aside enough time for your search.

• If you currently have a lease, don't forget to talk to your leasing office or property manager about how many days notice you need to give after your current lease ends.

• Start looking two-three months before you want to move.

• Establish your rental criteria: furnished or unfurnished, bedrooms, bathrooms, dishwasher, yard space, Pet Friendly, etc.

• Browse Listings

• Research local neighborhoods. If you need public transportation, ensure that you are walking distance to a bus or metro station.

• Be realistic about price expectation. Rental costs in Washington, DC and some of the surrounding neighborhoods are higher than many parts of America. Know the different rent prices between the really expensive neighborhoods and the more affordable neighborhoods.

• Reach out to the property manager for more pictures or videos of the property

• Ask the property manager about other questions you may have about the property

Tenant screening is the process of asking important questions of to determine the best fit for the tenant, the landlord, and the property. That said, most landlords are particularly concerned with applicants’ rental history, credit history, eviction history, and criminal record.

Common Pre-Screening Questions

• What is your desired move-in date?

• Why did you decide to leave your current place?

• How many people will be living in the unit?

• How many adults will be contributing to the rent? What is your combined monthly income?

• Do you have any pets? If so, please describe them?

• Di you anticipate having any long-term guests or additions to the household?

• Do you have money set aside for the security deposit and first month's rent?

• Do you anticipate anything in the near future affecting your ability to pay rent?

• Are you able to provide references from employers and previous landlord?

• Have you ever had to break a lease? If so, why?

• Have you every had to file for bankruptcy?

• Have you ever been evicted? If so, why?

• Do you have any questions for me about the property or rental application process?

• Is there anything else I should know about you and your living situation?

• Schedule a tour with a landlord, listing agent, or property manager.

• Fill Out Rental Application

• Pay Application Fee

• Complete Credit Check

• Complete Background Check

• Employment Verification

• Previous Landlord References

• Sign Lease Electronically

• Pay upfront costs

  • Pro-rated rent

  • Security Deposit

• Receive the lockbox code

• If property is a furnished shared house, you may also receive the wifi password, and other information.

• You will receive all communication through the tenant portal

• There you can submit maintenance requests and send messages to management.

• You will also pay your rent online as well.