Renting a home or condo in Florida can be a breeze if you follow this step-by-step guide. The renting process may seem daunting, but with our helpful tips, you’ll be moving in very soon.
The Florida renting process for tenants typically involves finding a suitable property, completing a rental application, passing a tenant screening process, signing a lease agreement, and paying the required fees and deposits.
Here’s A Step-By-Step Breakdown
1. Research and Find a Property:
Use these Renting Search Tools to find available rentals in your desired location and price range.
2. Schedule Viewings of Properties:
Set up an appointment with us, your chosen real estate agents, to view a property and then determine if the rental unit meets your needs.
3. Apply to Rent:
Have Necessary Documents: Prepare documents, like proof of income and identification, of all tenants 18 years and older. A credit report will be pulled on each applicant.
4. Complete the Application:
Fill out the rental application form thoroughly, providing accurate and complete information. We will help you with this.
5. Pay Application Fee:
A non-refundable application fee is usually required.
6. Tenant Screening:
The landlord will likely conduct a background check, which may include credit checks, eviction history checks, and criminal background checks.
7. Lease Agreement:
Carefully review the lease agreement before signing it to understand your rights and responsibilities. We will review this with you and answer any questions.
8. Sign the Lease:
If you agree with the terms, sign the lease.
9. Payment:
Pay First Month’s and Last Month’s Rent: Provide payment for the first month’s rent and last month’s rent. Pay Security Deposit, which is typically required.
10.Move-In: Conduct a move-in inspection to document the property’s condition.
11. Receive Keys:
The landlord will provide you with the keys to the property.
12.Build a Relationship:
Communicate with the landlord and property management company about any issues or concerns that arise during your tenancy.
Renting Seasonal
If you’re wanting to head south for the winter, you’ll likely be seeking a seasonal rental. Seasonal rentals are typically available for a 3–4-month period during that particular region’s busiest part of the year. Seasonal rentals are 6 months or less and annual rentals are 6 months plus one day to 12 months long.
Southeast Florida’s busiest time of the year for seasonal rentals is January through March. Florida’s season for “Snowbirds” generally runs from November through April, when the cold months hit the hardest up north, especially in Canada and New York.
We can help you research in advance the area where you plan to rent regarding your needs, desires, and amenities wanted. Our goal, as your rental agent, is to find the perfect condo or home to fit your needs, lifestyle, and time frame. Call or text the Martin Group of Realtors® at 561-339-1779 to view any property, get more information, or to help you search.
General Rental Requirements
Proof of Current Income
It is important that you provide the source of income that will cover the term of the lease. Acceptable proof of income: Pay stubs, W2 Form, retirement, court decree on child support or alimony. Self-employed or retired applicants must provide last 2 years of tax returns.
Income Requirement
Applicant: Gross monthly income must meet or exceed about three times the monthly rent amount. Multiple applicants’ income will be combined.
Credit History
The agent will get a current Credit Report which must show a satisfactory credit score. The exact credit score requirement is usually written in the listing for rent. The most common reasons for denial are: too much debt in the last 7 years, delinquent accounts exceed 24% of your credit profile, or eviction within the last three years.
Criminal History
Must have satisfactory criminal background. The most common reasons for denial are: Applicant has ever been convicted of any sexual related offense or VCAP (Violent Crime Against Person), has a felony record, or a 1st degree misdemeanor that was adjudicated guilty, or applicant has falsified information on the application.
Fees Required
The Home Owners Association, the owner of the property, if have pets, and the brokerage firm may all require a fee. Usually the first and last month’s rent are collected, plus a security deposit.
Signed Lease Agreement
The real estate agent or a lawyer will provide a lease agreement for all parties to sign, including children 18 years of age and older, living in the rental unit.
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The Martin Group of Realtors®
Jason Martin & Doug Martin
Premier Brokers International
LOCAL EXPERTISE • GLOBAL REACH
50+ years of experience as Realtors® and Custom Home Builders.
Helping you reach your real estate goals!
Jason Martin, PA
Residential Realtor® Agent
561-624-4544
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Doug Martin
Broker Realtor® Emeritus
561-339-3299
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