How Long Does It Take to Process My Rental Application?

When risks and red flags appear we are required to inspect every aspect of the application more carefully or the owner will suspect that we're not doing our job and tend to lock down.  It's a delicate discussion and we have to be prepared.

The faster you move in plays a large role.  If we have two applications of equal quality, we will take the faster move.  A much faster move can even elevate a slightly riskier application over another.  When applying you should list your preferred start date, but note if you could move sooner. Owners are often more strict on requirements in the early weeks but sometimes loosen their requirements with time.  We strongly discourage this but it does occur as the pain of a vacant home sets in.

We do not use a timed priority.  So an application received today will not receive priority over one received tomorrow.  For very competitive homes this may be unavoidable to some degree.  If we receive more than 5 applications on a home we will typically stop processing new ones for a time.  If we have accepted an application, we will give at least 24 hours to pay before processing new applications.  If you know your application is a backup, you should avoid paying until contacted.

During hot markets and with competitive homes the rental market can seem like the wild west.  Customers often fly into a rage with us when a home they just viewed goes under contract, however, this is a function of the market, not our policies.  It’s not unusual for us to receive 4 applications in a few hours, often right after the home hits the market, and scheduled viewings never get a chance to go inside.  This inevitably leaves many unhappy, but please bear with us as there is no alternative.  Competition is often frustrating, but it is inevitable.  Many accuse us of being lax with communication, but that is rarely the case.  More often we are processing so many requests, showings, applications, and payments that there is simply no reasonable way to stay in close contact with all potential leads. We feel it’s unfair to blame us when these issues occur with very competitive rentals and very much appreciate those who are understanding.

Sometimes owners intentionally delay a decision in hopes of receiving a better application.  We strongly discourage this however being their home we are limited in our options.  If you need a particularly quick response please note this in your application and we’ll set a 24-hour time limit for the owner to either accept or we’ll decline and move on.  Not ideal, but it is our only option against that strategy.  This is also common if you aren’t moving quickly.

We hope these ideas help to simplify what is an extremely complex issue given the wide range of homes and owners we have to deal with while processing a rental application.  As noted these points are guidelines, but will vary.  Thank you for your interest in renting with MoveZen!

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