Rental FAQ
Renting in Bellevue & the Eastside
Everything you need to know about the application process, costs, pet policies, income requirements, and move-in timing.
Application Process
How much does it cost to apply for a rental?
The screening fee is $54 per adult (18+). Children under 18 are listed as occupants and do not pay a fee. For example, 2 adults and 1 child would pay $108 total.
What documents do I need to apply?
You will need a photo ID and proof of income. Accepted proof includes pay stubs, offer letters, W-2s, tax returns, bank statements, or government assistance letters on official letterhead.
Do I have to tour before I apply?
You can apply without touring, but you must tour the property in person before signing a lease. In-person tours only.
How does application priority work?
The first complete application gets priority. It does not matter who tours first. If you apply first and all documents are submitted, you are first in line.
How long does the screening process take?
Typically 3 business days, up to a maximum of 5 business days. Applications are reviewed multiple times per day.
What would automatically disqualify my application?
Verified evictions, rental debt, consumer collections over $1,000 (excluding medical bills and student loans), open bankruptcy, severe negative rental history, or providing false information.
Can I get a refund if my application is not processed?
Yes. If your application is not processed for any reason, you receive a refund automatically within 5 to 15 days. No action needed on your end.
Move-in Costs & Fees
What are the total move-in costs?
Typical move-in costs include: security deposit (usually one month rent), first full month of rent, a $195 tenant onboarding fee, and the $36.50/month Resident Benefit Package. Pet fees apply if you have pets.
How does prorated rent work for mid-month move-ins?
If you move in mid-month, you pay the full next month of rent at move-in. Then on the following 1st, you pay only the prorated amount for the partial first month.
What is the Tenant Onboarding Fee?
The $195 onboarding fee covers property preparation, lockbox setup, and utility setup guidance for your move-in.
What is the Resident Benefit Package?
The Resident Benefit Package costs $36.50 per month and includes 24/7 emergency maintenance support and tenant tools.
Are utilities included in rent?
Utilities vary by property. In some cases, the HOA covers water, sewer, and garbage. Check the specific listing for details.
Pet Policies
Do your rentals allow pets?
Pet policies vary by listing. Each property has its own pet limit and species restrictions. Some allow dogs only, some allow cats only, and some allow both. Always check the specific listing.
Is there a minimum age for pets?
Pets must be at least 1 year old. ESAs (emotional support animals) and service animals are exempt from the age restriction.
Are ESAs and service animals allowed?
Yes. ESAs and service animals are exempt from pet policies, pet fees, and age restrictions with proper documentation.
How are pet fees handled?
Pet fees vary by property and are discussed during the application process. ESAs and service animals are exempt from pet fees.
What if my pet does not match the listing policy?
If a listing allows dogs but you have a cat (or vice versa), your pet would not qualify for that property. We can check which of our other available listings match your pet.
Income & Credit Requirements
What is the income requirement to rent?
Combined gross income of the top two earners must be at least 2.5 times the monthly rent, before taxes. Only the top two highest-earning adults count.
How is income verified for self-employed applicants?
Self-employed applicants need 2 years of tax returns plus 90 days of bank statements. Your adjusted gross income divided by 12 equals your monthly income. One year of returns may qualify with an extra month deposit or cosigner.
What if I am retired or not currently working?
Social Security, retirement income, and investment income all count. Alternatively, having savings equal to 8 months of rent over the last 6 months qualifies.
Do you accept government assistance and vouchers?
Yes. We accept Section 8 and other housing vouchers, SSI, child support, alimony, TANF, and any government assistance documented on official letterhead. With a voucher, you only need to qualify at 2.5 times your portion of rent.
What credit score do I need?
Credit is screened individually through Experian, not combined or averaged between applicants. A score of 700+ is solid, 650-699 is generally fine, and below 625 may require a cosigner or extra deposit. Medical bills and student loans are never counted against you.
What if I have no credit history or just moved to the US?
Applicants with no credit history can usually still qualify, but every adult with no credit will need their own cosigner. International credit history cannot be used.
Availability & Lease Timing
How soon can I move in after applying?
Screening takes 2 to 5 business days. After approval, the lease must start within 21 days. You do not need to physically move in within 21 days, but rent begins on the lease start date.
What is the 21-day lease start rule?
After your application is approved, the lease must start within 21 days. You can physically move in later (even months later), but you pay rent from the lease start date. Lease start and move-in dates are different.
Can I rent a place that is available now if I want to move in 2 months from now?
Properties listed as "available now" are typically rented within 10 to 25 days. If your move-in date is more than 25 days out, the property will almost certainly be rented by then. The market moves fast.
Can leases start on weekends?
Lease start dates are business days only, Monday through Friday. A Saturday move-in would mean the lease starts the preceding Friday. No holiday start dates either.
Can I tour remotely if I am out of state?
Yes. Options include YouTube video walkthroughs (when available), FaceTime virtual tours, sending a friend to tour on your behalf, or applying first to lock in priority while arranging an in-person visit.
Ready to find your next place?
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