Post Application Acceptance Tips and Steps

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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, and deadlines for signing and paying move-in funds. Check your inbox and spam folder frequently because 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, and 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), and 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, and 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 and sewer, gas (if applicable), trash services, and 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, and 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 and instructions for reporting cosmetic and minor issues. Submit this promptly to avoid confusion upon move-out.

8. Review the HVAC Filter Program and Maintenance Responsibilities

Knowing these early helps prevent avoidable issues. Replace filters every 30–60 days, submit maintenance through the resident portal, and 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 North Carolina summers and winters)

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, and missing move-in paperwork may complicate your first days. If you need more time, communicate immediately because solutions may be available if caught early.