The Rental Application Invitation Process

We follow a specific process to handle rental applications.  Everything is done through our online system called TenantCloud.  It helps us manage rental properties and applications.

Step 1:  See the Property First

Before anyone can apply, they must visit the property in person.  We do not send application links to people who haven’t seen the home.

Step 2:  Give Us Your Email Address

After seeing the home, applicants need to give us a valid email address.  Once we receive it, we will send a special TenantCloud application invitation by email.  Everyone age 18 or older who will live in the home must complete their own application.

Important Notes About the Invitation Email The email link is only good for 3 days. If not used, it will expire. We usually do not resend the invitation. If You’re Working With a Real Estate Agent Many renters have an agent helping them.  If that’s the case: The agent should read the MLS listing carefully. They must send us the applicants’ name and email address. This connects the agent to their clients so they can receive any commission the homeowner may offer. Agents cannot receive the application link.  It goes directly to the applicant.  We do not give agents updates on application status.  We talk directly to the applicants.

How to Complete the Application

The TenantCloud system is easy to use, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Use Google Chrome on a computer (not a phone or tablet).
• Fill out all required fields before submitting applications.
• Upload:
  • At least two recent pay stubs;
  • A government-issued photo ID;
  • Photos of any pets (if you have them);
  • Names and ages of everyone who will live in the home.

Applications that are incomplete or contain false or misleading information will be automatically declined.

We’re Here to Help You Through the Process!

Following these steps helps keep things fair and organized for everyone.  If you’re serious about renting, make sure to see the home first and complete your application fully and honestly.

What Happens After You Submit
Your Rental Application

Once you complete and submit your rental applications through TenantCloud, a screening report will be created.  This is an important part of the rental process and helps us make a fair and informed decision.

The Screening Report

Each applicant will need to pay a $45 fee for the screening.  This fee goes to an independent screening company, not to us.  The screening report includes:

• A credit report from credit reporting agencies;
• A criminal background check using law enforcement records;
• An eviction history report from the court system.

We take this process seriously to help protect both our property owners and our future tenants.

Important Information

• Every person applying must consent to the screening;
• If an applicant does not agree to the screening, their application will be automatically declined;
• No refunds will be given for declined applications or technical problems.

If you have any trouble during the application or screening process, you must contact TenantCloud support directly.  They are the ones who handle technical issues with the system.

What Happens Next?

After we review your application and screening report, we may ask for more information.  There are specific things we look for to help decide if an applicant is approved.  We’ll explain those criteria to you if needed, but please make sure your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays.

Our Income Requirement

One of the most important things we look for in a rental application is verifiable income.  This means you must show proof of your income.  We don’t just go by what’s written on the application.

How Much Income Do You Need?

Each home has a minimum income requirement, which we clearly show in our marketing and in the MLS listing.  Most of our homeowners ask that applicants have verifiable income of at least 3.5 times the monthly rent.  For example, if the monthly rent is $1,000, the required monthly income is $3,500 (or $42,000 per year)  before taxes.

How Do We Verify Income?

To confirm your income, you’ll need to upload:

• At least two recent pay stubs or earnings statements;
• If you’re self-employed, we need your most recent tax return.

In some cases, we may also call your employer to confirm your job and income.

Why This Matters

Showing that you meet the income requirement helps us know that you’ll be able to afford the rent comfortably.  Submitting the right documents from the start will help speed up the process.

Rental History Review

We also look at your rental and housing history as part of the application process.  This helps us understand how you’ve handled housing in the past.  It’s an important part of choosing the right tenant.

What We Check

As part of the screening, we review public court records through the Judiciary system.  This includes:

• Failure to Pay Rent filings;
• Evictions;
• Foreclosures;
• Other legal housing-related issues

We also run a criminal background check using official law enforcement records.

Why This Matters

We want to make sure we’re placing tenants who are responsible and have a positive rental history.  A good track record helps show that you’re likely to pay rent on time and take care of the home.

Credit Report Review

As part of the rental application process, we review your credit report.  We do not focus on credit scores because that number doesn’t tell us everything we need to know.  Instead, we look at:

• Bankruptcy filings;
• Other financial issues that could affect your ability to pay rent;
• Most importantly, your debt-to-income ratio.

What Is a Debt-to-Income Ratio?

Your debt-to-income ratio compares how much money you make to how much you owe.  We calculate it using:

• Your verifiable income (like your pay stubs);
• The monthly payments listed on your credit report;
• And the monthly rent of the home you’re applying for.

What Are We Looking For?

The lower your debt-to-income ratio, the stronger your application will be.  We usually look for a debt-to-income ratio of 30% or less.  This helps show that you can comfortably afford the rent along with your other bills.

Additional Information We Need

To complete your rental application, we’ll need a few more important details.

Pets

Most of our homeowners allow pets, but there may be rules or restrictions, depending on the property.  If you have pets, please:

• Tell us about each pet;
• Send us pictures of all pets.

Please note:  Pit bulls and similar breeds are not allowed under any circumstances.

New Pet Policy Starting October 1, 2024

Beginning October 1, 2024, a new law in Maryland no longer allows landlords to charge a pet deposit.  Instead, if you have pets (dogs or cats), you will need to pay pet rent each month of $25 per pet.  For example, if you have two pets, the extra rent will be $50 per month.

Photo ID and Household Details

You must also:

• Provide a government-issued photo ID;
• List the names and ages of everyone who will live in the home.

Everyone 18 and older must fill out their own application and will be included on the lease.

What Happens Next?

Once we have all your information, we:

• Review your complete application;
• Send our recommendation to the homeowner;
• The homeowner makes the final decision on whether to approve or decline your application.

How Long Does It Take?

The review process usually takes 7 to 10 business days.  We kindly ask that applicants and agents be patient during this time.