Screening Process
Resident Screening & Underwriting Process
We believe in placing responsible residents in well-maintained homes. To ensure fairness and consistency, we follow a standardized screening process for all applicants. Below is what to expect after submitting your application.
All applicants are evaluated using the same criteria, in compliance with the Fair Housing Act and applicable state and local laws.
Step 1: Application Review & Authorization Forms
Before processing your application, please make sure it includes:
- At least 2 years of employment history
- At least 5 years of rental/residency history
- Complete and accurate contact information for employment and rental references
Once your application is received, we will send you two authorization forms:
- Verification of Employment (VOE) – Allows us to verify your job and income details with your employer.
- Verification of Rental History (VORH) – Authorizes us to confirm your rental history with past and current landlords.
These forms must be signed and returned before we can proceed. If you have a unique situation or need help completing your application, please reach out—we're happy to assist.
Step 2: Verification Process
Employment, Income, & Ability to Pay Verification
- We will contact your employer using the signed VOE form.
- Pay Stubs & Bank Statements – We require two months of pay stubs and two months of bank statements to confirm income.
- Self-Employed Applicants – You must provide your full tax returns from the last two years to verify income stability.
- Expense Review – In addition to verifying your income, we also assess your overall ability to afford the rent. This includes reviewing regular expenses to ensure financial stability. This review is applied consistently to all applicants.
Rental History Verification
- We will contact your current and past landlords using the signed VORH form to confirm rental history, payment timeliness, and property care.
Identity & Vehicle Verification
- A valid driver's license or state-issued ID is required.
- If you plan to park a vehicle on the property, a valid driver's license is required. If you do not drive but require parking for a caregiver or other authorized individual, please let us know.
Background & Credit Screening
- We conduct a credit check, eviction history review, and criminal background screening.
- Credit history is reviewed beyond just the score, considering factors such as payment history, outstanding debt, and financial responsibility.
- Civil court records may be reviewed, including outstanding judgments, unpaid debts, eviction filings, and other legal matters that could impact an applicant's ability to fulfill a lease agreement.
- Criminal background checks are reviewed on an individualized basis and do not automatically disqualify applicants. Factors considered include the nature, severity, and timing of offenses.
Step 3: Additional Documentation (If Needed)
Depending on your circumstances, we may request:
- Full tax returns
- Additional proof of income (SSI, child support, etc.)
- A co-signer if income or credit requirements are not met
Step 4: Approval & Next Steps
- If your application is approved, we will finalize your lease terms, move-in date, and deposit requirements.
- Before moving in, you will need to transfer utilities into your name and obtain renter's insurance.
Our goal is to process applications quickly, typically the full process will take 5-10 business days. However, delays may occur if verification responses are not received promptly.
Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity Compliance
We comply with the Fair Housing Act and all applicable state and federal laws. We do not discriminate against any person based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, or any other protected class.
Questions?
We want to make this process as smooth as possible! If you have questions about your application or need help providing documentation, please contact us.