If you're looking for an apartment in Los Angeles, Orange County, Long Beach, Riverside, San Bernardino, or anywhere in Southern California, asking the right questions before you apply could save you hundreds of dollars.
Many renters pay application fees without knowing whether they actually qualify. In competitive rental markets like Los Angeles, it's common for renters to submit multiple applications before getting approved, spending hundreds of dollars on fees that could have been avoided.
This checklist will help you avoid costly mistakes and make smarter decisions before applying.
Why Apartment Application Fees Add Up Quickly in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the most competitive rental markets in the country.
Many renters apply to three, four, or even five apartments before finding one they qualify for. If each application costs between $30 and $75 per adult, those fees add up fast.
The good news is many of those costs can be avoided by asking a few simple questions before applying.
Apartment Rental Checklist for Southern California Renters
✅ 1. What Credit Score Do You Require?
Don't guess.
Ask the leasing office:
- Is there a minimum credit score?
- Is your credit requirement flexible?
- Do you review applications individually?
Many Los Angeles property managers have flexible requirements that aren't advertised.
✅ 2. What Income Is Required?
Many Southern California apartments require applicants to earn:
- 2.5x monthly rent
- 3x monthly rent
Also ask:
- Can roommates combine income?
- Do you use gross or net income?
- Are bonuses or commissions accepted?
✅ 3. Do You Accept Co Signers?
This question alone could save an application fee.
Many communities accept co signers.
Others don't.
Always ask first.
✅ 4. Do You Accept Guarantors?
Some companies use guarantor programs instead of traditional co signers.
If you don't qualify alone, this could open more options.
✅ 5. What Rental History Requirements Do You Have?
Ask if they review:
- Previous evictions
- Late payments
- Broken leases
- Rental references
✅ 6. Do You Check Criminal Background?
Every property has different screening policies.
It's better to know before applying.
✅ 7. What Is the Application Fee?
Ask:
- How much is it?
- Is everyone over 18 required to apply?
- Is any portion refundable?
✅ 8. What Will My Total Move In Cost Be?
Don't stop at monthly rent.
Ask for the complete breakdown.
Include:
- Security deposit
- First month's rent
- Holding deposit
- Pet deposit
- Parking fees
- Utility setup fees
✅ 9. What Utilities Are Included?
Ask about:
- Water
- Sewer
- Trash
- Gas
- Electricity
- Internet
✅ 10. What Is the Pet Policy?
Ask:
- Cats?
- Dogs?
- Breed restrictions?
- Weight limits?
- Pet rent?
- Pet deposit?
✅ 11. Is Renters Insurance Required?
Many apartment communities throughout Southern California require renters insurance before move in.
✅ 12. Are There Any Monthly Fees?
Ask about:
- Trash
- Pest control
- Utility administration
- Parking
- Amenity fees
- Technology packages
✅ 13. Can I Tour the Exact Apartment?
Never rely solely on photos.
Always ask to see the actual unit whenever possible.
✅ 14. When Is the Apartment Available?
Availability changes quickly in Los Angeles.
Confirm:
- Move in date
- Holding policy
- Deposit deadlines
✅ 15. Based on My Situation, Do You Think I'll Qualify?
This may be the most important question.
Tell the leasing office:
"My credit score is around ___.
My income is ___.
I have a co signer if needed.
Based on that, do you think I'd qualify before I pay the application fee?"
Many leasing agents will give you an honest answer.
How ZRently Helps Southern California Renters Save Money
Instead of guessing, ZRently lets renters search for apartments using the qualifications that matter most.
With ZRently, you can search by:
- Credit score requirements
- Income requirements
- Co signer acceptance
- Pet policies
- Lease terms
- Parking
- And more
Our mission is simple:
Help renters know before they apply so they can save money on unnecessary application fees.
If you're searching for apartments in Los Angeles, Orange County, Long Beach, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Burbank, Glendale, Anaheim, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Riverside, or anywhere in Southern California, ZRently makes it easier to find rentals that fit your qualifications before you spend money.