House hunting is always a challenging task at best and in Santa Cruz during the summer the competition is fierce. The more organized you are, the easier the process!!
Most Property Management Companies in Santa Cruz County have fairly similar requirements when applying for long-term housing. Some basics that will be required when you find a unit you want to apply for through Kendall & Potter, will include the following:
- A completed Rental Application, please, please, fill out ALL fields and remember to sign the authorization line! This will allow the Property Manager to process your application and to obtain references from current & previous landlords. VERY IMPORTANT.
- You will need to provide proof of income. Many times I hear people ask me, “ How do I do that”? Easy ! If you have a job where you get pay stubs, bring 2 recent pay stubs! If you are self-employed, or get money from a relative, or receive money any other way – print out 3 months (yes 3 months!) of bank statements. Our company will also require the 1st two pages of your most recent tax return. People comment sometimes “That’s A lot of Paperwork ”. Yes, it is a little bit of paperwork to submit, however the reason we require proof of income is because we need to verify that all applicants will be able to afford the rental they are applying for.If you do not qualify for the property of your dreams, we may be able to help you at least find another home you will qualify for
- Be organized! You will need to move quickly. If you do find a home you love, chances are others adore it too; have all of your paperwork ready to go with each and every apartment you see. Landlords are getting pickier in terms of choosing the candidates with the highest credit standards or best financial picture from among multiple applications. Make sure you are ready with documentation and the application fee quickly to put yourself at the top of the list, and have those rent and security deposit certified checks easily accessible.
- Renting with 4-legged friends? Ask about the pet policy for the unit you are applying for. Our company requires a PET RESUME, which can be found on our website. Please tell the Leasing Agent at the showing if you have a pet. Some owners accept them! Unfortunately, some do not. Some take dogs, not cats and vice versa. Be up front about your pet. Your landlord will find out eventually and it is not worth getting evicted over. Many landlords will try to work with you.
HAPPY HOUSE HUNTING!!