Post Application Acceptance Tips and Steps
Congratulations — your application has been accepted! 🎉
Audience: applicants who have just been approved for a rental home and want to understand what happens next, what they should prepare for, and how to ensure a smooth move-in experience.
This is an exciting milestone, and we want your move-in experience to feel smooth, organized, and stress-free. The steps below outline exactly what to expect after approval, what you should be doing right now, and how to avoid delays that could impact your reservation.
FAQs ❓
Does application approval mean the home is officially mine?
Not yet. The home is reserved for you once your lease is signed and required payments are made.
How long do I have to sign the lease?
Typically a short deadline (often 24–48 hours). Deadlines protect you by keeping other applicants from securing the home first.
Is my move-in date guaranteed?
Yes. once your lease is signed and all funds are paid.
What if I need to change my move-in date?
Ask immediately. Some homes allow adjustments; others have fixed timing.
When do I get move-in instructions?
After your lease is signed and payments clear, you’ll receive a detailed move-in guide.
What to Do Immediately After Approval ✔️
These steps set the foundation for everything that comes next.
1. Watch for Your Lease and Time-Sensitive Emails 📩
After approval, you’ll receive:
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Your digital lease package
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Any required addenda (pet, parking, utilities)
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Time-sensitive instructions
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Deadlines for signing and paying move-in funds
Check your inbox and spam folder frequently — delays slow everything down.
2. Review and Sign Your Lease Promptly ✍️
Homes cannot be held without a signed lease.
Review:
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Your move-in date
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Monthly rent
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Security deposit
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Fees and addenda
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Utility setup requirements
Signing promptly ensures the home remains reserved for you.
3. Pay Your Move-In Funds 💳
Required funds typically include:
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First month’s rent
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Security deposit
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Additional deposits or pet fees (if applicable)
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Administrative or onboarding fees
These must be paid before you receive keys or move-in instructions.
4. Set Up Your Resident Portal Account 🖥️
Your portal will be used for:
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Rent payments
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Maintenance requests
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Lease documents
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Important notifications
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Renewals down the road
Set it up early so everything is ready by move-in day.
5. Prepare Your Required Move-In Utilities 🔌
Most leases require you to have utilities activated in your name by your move-in date.
This often includes:
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Electric
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Water & sewer
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Gas (if applicable)
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Trash services
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Internet and cable
Proof of activation may be required prior to receiving keys.
6. Review Your Move-In Instructions Carefully 📘
Once your lease and payments are complete, you’ll receive a:
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Move-in guide
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Access instructions
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Lockbox or key retrieval details
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Parking or gate codes
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Initial inspection instructions
Move-in packets reduce move-in day stress significantly.
7. Complete Your Move-In Inspection 📝
This protects you by documenting the property’s condition at move-in.
You’ll receive:
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A digital inspection form
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Instructions for reporting cosmetic and minor issues
Submit this promptly to avoid confusion upon move-out.
8. Review the HVAC Filter Program & Maintenance Responsibilities 🌬️
Knowing these early helps prevent avoidable issues:
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Replace filters every 30–60 days
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Submit maintenance through the resident portal
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Understand which items you’re responsible for (light bulbs, batteries, etc.)
This saves frustration and helps the system run efficiently from day one.
Tips to Make Your Move-In Day Smooth and Stress-Free 🧘♂️
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Schedule movers early
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Confirm your utilities activation
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Review your path to the home (parking, elevators, loading areas)
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Keep a copy of your lease handy
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Test your resident portal login before moving in
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Prepare for weather (especially in NC summers and winters)
These simple steps keep your first day in your new home easy and organized.
What Happens If You Miss a Deadline? ⚠️
Because rental homes are in high demand:
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Missing your lease signing deadline may result in cancellation
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Delayed payments may release the home to another applicant
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Late utility setup may delay your access
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Missing move-in paperwork may complicate your first days
If you need more time, communicate immediately — solutions may be available if caught early.