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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:

  • Your digital lease package

  • Any required addenda (pet, parking, utilities)

  • Time-sensitive instructions

  • 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:

  • Your move-in date

  • Monthly rent

  • Security deposit

  • Fees and addenda

  • Utility setup requirements

Signing promptly ensures the home remains reserved for you.


3. Pay Your Move-In Funds 💳

Required funds typically include:

  • First month’s rent

  • Security deposit

  • Additional deposits or pet fees (if applicable)

  • 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:

  • Rent payments

  • Maintenance requests

  • Lease documents

  • Important notifications

  • 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:

  • Electric

  • Water & sewer

  • Gas (if applicable)

  • Trash services

  • 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:

  • Move-in guide

  • Access instructions

  • Lockbox or key retrieval details

  • Parking or gate codes

  • 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:

  • A digital inspection form

  • 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:

  • Replace filters every 30–60 days

  • Submit maintenance through the resident portal

  • 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 🧘‍♂️

  • Schedule movers early

  • Confirm your utilities activation

  • Review your path to the home (parking, elevators, loading areas)

  • Keep a copy of your lease handy

  • Test your resident portal login before moving in

  • 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:

  • Missing your lease signing deadline may result in cancellation

  • Delayed payments may release the home to another applicant

  • Late utility setup may delay your access

  • Missing move-in paperwork may complicate your first days

If you need more time, communicate immediately — solutions may be available if caught early.