The Tenant Interview

Where did you live last and why are you looking for a new residence? 

How long at last address?  How long at 2nd last address?

- ! A credit check will show previous addresses.

Warning:  ("Address Hopping" usually indicates problems.)

Have you ever been evicted? Have you ever broken your lease?

Cannot rent by keeping unit empty more than a week after approval.

Cannot rent "immediately" by skipping application process.

Optimum 1-week application to move in.

Must have full deposit and first month rent.

How many will be living in the apartment? 

(Allow for 2 adults max in each household + 1 pre-school child; 2 per bedroom max total)

- Use "Named Occupant" lease.  Excess occupancy will trigger eviction. 

Warning:  (Unclaimed adults will require additional background check & possible cancellation of lease) 

Income worksheet: 

- List sources of income.  How long at present job? 

Warning:  ("Job Hopping" usually indicates problems.)

    - You must have enough money to pay the rent and to live. 

Many employers will need a written request to verify length of employment and income. 

If employer will not furnish income then request last 2 pay stubs and / or last 2 bank statements.

If on SSI, HUD, Food Stamps or other programs that does count as income.

If self employed, request last tax return showing gross income. 

* Apartment must be kept clean at all times.  You must take garbage to the dumpster every day.

- No pets; No smoking

-  No putting food out for homeless pets.  Rodents love all food!

-  No trash is allowed outdoors at any time.  Fines will be issued!

* You must live in peace.  This means quiet living; no drugs, no smoking, no pets, no drama and that you remain responsible for those occupying and visiting your apartment.  

If police are called to your unit for situations you or your occupants cause then fines will be issued!

* Rent must be paid in full and on time.  Evictions will be prompt. 

* Other rental guide resources:  ( http://www.texasrenterblog.com/rent-smart/rental-applications-how-do-apartments-verify-employment-and-income/ )

Quick Worksheet for those in denial of the 2 or 3 times rent income requirement:

Take home income: _______________

Car payment: __________________

Auto Insurance :  ___________________

Gasoline:  ___________________

Auto Repairs savings fund:                 .

Health Insurance: ___________ 

Internet                       .

Phone                       .

TV ___________.

Rent:    _________________

Food & misc.:                                 .

Emergency savings fund                               .

Net short or spare     _______________

Financial planning resources for living on your own: 
  - Look at this interactive custom budget plan.  (www.leavingthefolks.com/cost.php)
  - No nonsense planning for living on your own.  (www.leavingthefolks.com)
  - Also see www.davidramsey.com for financial advice.

  - David Ramsey’s budget plan
(https://a248.e.akamai.net/f/1611/26335/9h/dramsey.download.akamai.com/23572/daveramsey.com/media/pdf/forms/fpu_monthly_cash_flow_plan_forms.pdf?ictid=btxt.ny13)
- Local David Ramsey personal financial classes
(https://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/classfinder?class=174254#center=30.0256,-90.2531)