Fort Bend-Area Landlords Want More Than Warm Bodies

Rentals in the Fort Bend County citiies of Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg and Fresno are going so fast that you cannot afford to dilly dally after having seen the house that fits your needs. You dare to snooze. You are guaranteed to lose.

Here are a few hints to help you snag your next rental home.

Lease Application

Your REALTOR® will provide you with the 4-page Texas Association of REALTOR® lease application. Each person over the age of 18 will be required to complete an application completely. Do not leave any blanks. Blank spaces slow down the processing of your application.

Lease Application Fee and ID's

In addition to the application, an application fee will be required. The fee can be paid by cash, cashier's check or money order. Usually personal checks are NOT acceptable. A copy of government-issued ID's such as driver's license, passport, social secuity card are usually required.

Employment Verification 
 You must provide proof of income that is, at minimum, three times the listed rental price. Two most recent pay check stubs, an offer of employement letter, bank statements or tax returns are usually acceptable.

Rental History

A history of on-time rental payments is what landlords want to review. Evictions, broken leases and too many late payments can be a reason for rejection of an application.

Credit History

The higher the credit score the better your chances. Some landlords are willing to consider a low(er) score provided you pay a higher deposit that may be equal to 2-3 months rent.

Background/Criminal Check

Landlords are looking for good citizens with no past or present brushes with the law.

Pets

Most landlords will not accept pets that are considered to be aggressive breeds such as, but not limited to, pit bulls, chows and rottweillers. Pet deposits are required; however, the amount of the deposit is negotiable.

Security Deposit and First Month's Rent

The deposit and first month's rent must be paid using certified funds at the times designated by your REALTOR®.,

If you are considering a rental property in the Fort Bend County cities of Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenber or Fresno keep in mind that landlords are looking for more than just warm bodies. When you find the perfect reantal do not snooze on the property that fits your needs. If you do, you'll lose.

Good quality rentals that are priced right don't stay on the market for very long. Get moving!