Finding the perfect rental in Missoula can be exciting, but the application process can be daunting if you’re not well-prepared. At Missoula Property Management, we’ve seen applicants make common mistakes that can delay or even derail their chances of securing a rental. To help you avoid these pitfalls and improve your chances of getting the rental you want, we’ve compiled a list of the most common mistakes renters make during the application process, along with tips on how to avoid them.
1. Not Preparing All Required Documentation in Advance
One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is not having all their documentation ready when they apply. Rental applications typically require several pieces of information, including proof of income, identification, rental history, and references. If you don’t have these documents prepared, your application might be delayed or even rejected.
What to Do:
Before you start your rental search, gather all necessary documents. This typically includes recent pay stubs, a copy of your driver’s license or ID, previous landlord contact information, and bank statements if required. Having these documents ready will allow you to submit a complete application quickly, which is crucial in competitive rental markets like Missoula.
2. Failing to Check Your Credit Score
Your credit score is a significant factor in the rental application process. Landlords use it to assess your financial reliability. Many applicants overlook this step and are surprised when their application is denied due to a low credit score.
What to Do:
Check your credit score before you start applying for rentals. If your score is lower than you’d like, take steps to improve it by paying down debt and correcting any errors on your credit report. If your score isn’t where it needs to be, consider finding a co-signer with a higher credit score to strengthen your application.
3. Providing Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
Incomplete or inaccurate information on your rental application can lead to delays or even rejection. Whether it’s a typo in your employment details or forgetting to mention a pet, these small mistakes can have big consequences.
What to Do:
Double-check your application before submitting it. Ensure all fields are filled out accurately and honestly. If something doesn’t apply to you, indicate that instead of leaving it blank. This attention to detail shows the landlord that you’re a responsible and reliable tenant.
4. Neglecting to Follow Up After Submitting the Application
Once you’ve submitted your application, it’s easy to assume that the landlord or property manager will get back to you when they’re ready. However, failing to follow up can result in your application being overlooked, especially if there are multiple applicants for the same property.
What to Do:
After submitting your application, follow up with the property manager to confirm that they’ve received it and to ask if they need any additional information. This proactive approach can help keep your application at the top of the list and demonstrate your genuine interest in the property.
5. Not Understanding the Terms of the Lease
Before you apply for a rental, it’s crucial to understand the terms of the lease. Some applicants make the mistake of glossing over important details such as the lease length, pet policies, or rules regarding subletting. This can lead to disagreements or even the need to break the lease later on.
What to Do:
Carefully read through the lease terms before applying for the rental. If you have any questions or concerns, ask the property manager for clarification. Understanding the lease fully before you apply ensures that you’re making an informed decision and prevents future misunderstandings.
6. Overlooking the Application Fee
In Missoula, as in many places, there is often an application fee that covers the cost of background and credit checks. Some applicants forget to include this fee with their application, which can delay the processing.
What to Do:
Be prepared to pay an application fee when you submit your rental application. Make sure you know the exact amount and how the landlord or property management company prefers to receive payment (e.g., check, money order, online payment). Submitting the fee promptly with your application can help avoid unnecessary delays.
7. Applying for Properties Outside Your Budget
It’s easy to fall in love with a rental property that’s slightly out of your budget, but applying for a home that you can’t comfortably afford can lead to financial stress and the possibility of eviction down the line.
What to Do:
Be realistic about what you can afford. Take into account not just the rent, but also utilities, parking, and any other monthly expenses. Use the 30% rule as a guideline, which suggests that your rent should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. Sticking to your budget will help you find a rental that you can enjoy without financial strain.
8. Ignoring Pet Policies
If you have pets, it’s essential to understand the rental property’s pet policies before you apply. Some applicants make the mistake of assuming that their pet will be allowed without checking, which can result in a denied application or, worse, an eviction.
What to Do:
If you have a pet, always check the pet policy before applying. Some properties may have restrictions on the type, size, or number of pets allowed, while others may require an additional pet deposit or monthly fee. Make sure you’re fully aware of these policies and factor any additional costs into your budget.
9. Applying for Multiple Properties at Once
While it might seem like a good idea to apply for multiple rentals at once to increase your chances, this can backfire if you’re approved for more than one. You may end up losing application fees or facing a difficult decision.
What to Do:
Prioritize your top choices and apply for them one at a time. This approach allows you to make a clear decision without the pressure of multiple approvals. If you’re in a competitive market, you can consider having a backup option, but avoid applying for too many at once.
10. Forgetting to Verify the Landlord or Property Management Company
With the rise of rental scams, it’s crucial to verify that the property and the landlord or property management company are legitimate before applying. Some renters have been scammed by paying application fees or deposits for properties that don’t exist.
What to Do:
Research the landlord or property management company before submitting an application. Look for reviews, visit their website, and make sure their contact information matches up. If something feels off, trust your instincts and look for another rental. Missoula Property Management has a solid reputation and is always available to answer any questions you may have.
Conclusion
Applying for a rental in Missoula can be a smooth and successful process if you avoid these common mistakes. By preparing your documentation, understanding the lease terms, and following up on your application, you’ll put yourself in the best position to secure the rental you want. At Missoula Property Management, we’re here to help guide you through the application process and make your transition into a new home as seamless as possible. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Happy house hunting!