How Long Does It Take To Get an Apartment? A Rental Timeline (2024)

Entering the rental market for the first time can cause a whirlwind of emotions. Along with the excitement and anticipation, you might be curious about how long it can take to get an apartment.

Keep reading to learn about each step—from the initial preparations to move-in day.

You’ll find practical tips, facts, and answers to your most pressing questions. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to secure your first apartment.

How long does it take to get an apartment?

Renting an apartment isn’t done overnight. It’s a process with three distinct stages: searching, applying and getting approved, and moving. Let’s dive into each of these steps, including how long they take from start to finish.

Finding an apartment

On average, finding an apartment takes a few weeks to months. Factors like the time of year, the type of residence (think a studio versus a two-bedroom or a pet-friendly versus a non-pet-friendly place), and the location influence this timeline.

Getting your application approved

Once you find a potential apartment, the application and approval stage begins. Typically, the response time after application submission is 24 to 72 hours.

You can speed up the approval process with a renter profile, which includes an application and the required documents. This will help you stand out from the crowd.

Moving in

After approval, moving into an apartment could happen as quickly as a week, especially if it’s already vacant and ready for a new tenant. However, if you’re juggling multiple factors related to your current lease or coordinating an out-of-state move, this timeline might extend to a month.

When to begin looking for an apartment

Renting an apartment involves more than just choosing the perfect place. It also requires detailed planning and preparation. But when should you start your search? Let’s break down the ideal timeline.

6 months out: Financial readiness and budget setting

Set a realistic budget: Consider your income and ongoing expenses. Can you comfortably afford the monthly rent on top of those expenses? A good rule of thumb is that ‌no more than one-fourth of your take-home income should go toward your housing costs.
Save up for a deposit: Your security deposit is typically equivalent to one or two months’ worth of rent. Don’t forget about utility deposits (for electric, gas, water, and internet), too. Check providers in your area for estimates.
Check your credit score: Landlords will often run a credit check as a measure of reliability. You can use free online tools to check your credit score.

But what if you have bad or no credit? There are ways to get an apartment with a lower credit score. Consider getting a co-signer or offering to pay a higher security deposit. Some landlords might even accept references from previous landlords or proof of income as an alternative.

3 months out: Understand the market and find the ideal location

Consider your location preferences: Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, and neighborhood safety.
Understand the market: Research the rental market. Are prices going up or down? Is it a renter’s or landlord’s market? This knowledge can help you negotiate. Many websites offer insights into market trends to help you make educated decisions.
Search in your desired neighborhoods: Everyone starts with a price range, property type, and location when searching for potential apartment listings. But you should get even more specific. While Realtor.com has plenty of listings to choose from, the key to a successful search is to leverage filter options.

2 months out: Get organized and start applying

The next step is organizing relevant paperwork to save time during the application process. Examples of paperwork to prepare include proof of income, references, and identification.

An alternative to this is creating an Avail Renter Profile and uploading all of the application documents you need, including background and credit checks, in one place.

By the two-month mark, you should have a few top apartment choices. Visit each option if you can, or take virtual tours if available. Consider all the pros and cons, and then start submitting your rental applications to your top choices.

1 month out: Follow up and prepare for your move

Follow up on the rental application:If you haven’t heard back from the landlord or property manager, it’s time for a polite email or phone call.
Prepare to move: Once you’re approved, start organizing for your move. Look into hiring movers or reserving a moving truck if needed. Create a timeline for when you expect the items in each room of your current home to be packed.
Handle logistics:Start transferring or setting up utilities, change your address with the post office, and inform important contacts about your upcoming move.
Inspect your new apartment: Make sure the apartment is in the condition the landlord promised. Check for any damage, and ensure that all appliances are working. If you find any issues, report them to your landlord immediately to have them fixed before you move in.

How long ‌it takes to get an apartment will depend on how effectively you plan.

How to complete a rental application

Completing a rental application is your chance to make a positive impression and show the landlord why you’d be a great renter. ‌It’s a crucial step in securing your new home, and understanding all of its components can significantly speed up your journey.

Let’s look at what the application process typically entails.

Essential documents to prepare for your application

When applying for an apartment, there are several key documents that you’ll need to provide:

Proof of income: This could be in the form of a pay stub, a letter from your employer, or, if you’re self-employed, a tax return. This information helps the landlord verify your income and determine your ability to pay the rent.
Photo identification:A driver’s license or passport will confirm your identity.
Rental history: Details of your past rentals, along with references from previous landlords, will reassure the landlord you are a reliable renter.
Credit report: This report displays your credit history, letting the landlord see your financial habits. Some landlords might run a credit check themselves, while others might ask you to provide one.

Having these documents ready will speed up the application process and show potential landlords that you’re organized and serious.

What to expect to provide on the application

Typical information that you’ll need to provide on a rental application includes the following:

Personal information:This includes your full name, phone number, and email address.
Employment details: This includes where you work, how long you’ve been employed there, and your monthly income.
Rental history:Details of where you’ve lived previously, how long you stayed, and past landlords’ contact information.
Personal references:Contact information for people who can vouch for your character and reliability.
Permission for a credit check: Most landlords will want to check your credit history to gauge your financial reliability.

What happens during the approval process?

After submitting your application, it’s time to sit tight. Approval typically comes 24 to 72 hours after your application.

Keep in mind, though, that weekends, holidays, or additional verification requirements can push out that timeline.

What to do after your application approval

If your application gets approved, congrats! But the journey doesn’t end there. Let’s look at some tips to help ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Sign the lease:Once you receive the approval notification, you’ll be required to sign the lease agreement. This document outlines the terms of your tenancy, including the rent amount and duration, as well as rules and obligations. Thoroughly review each clause, and if anything seems unclear, consult a professional before signing. The lease is legally binding and details not only your rights and responsibilities as a renter but also your landlord’s obligations.
Pay the security deposit:At this stage, you’ll have already saved for the security deposit. Remember, this deposit is generally equivalent to one or two months’ rent and is intended to cover any potential damage during your stay. Ask your landlord about the conditions for its full return. You might want to take pictures of the apartment before you move in to have a record of the space’s original condition.
Organize your move: Start preparing for the move by packing nonessential items first. Then, as the move-in date gets closer, gradually switch to everyday items. Label your boxes by room and contents for easy unpacking. Plan your move-in day in detail by, for instance, arranging for a moving truck, enlisting help, and setting a schedule to avoid the rush.
Set up your utilities:If your lease doesn’t include utilities, you should start setting your utilities up in your name about two weeks before moving in. Contact each utility company to schedule the activation dates. Remember to coordinate disconnection with your providers in your old home. Keep organized, follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your new apartment in no time!

Find your next rental on Realtor.com

Securing your first apartment might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. You now have the tools and knowledge to confidently embark on this journey.

And remember, you’re not alone in this. Once you’re ready to search for a rental, begin the journey with Realtor.com to find available, up-to-date apartment listings near you.