Rental Qualifications & Screening Criteria

Management evaluates all rental applications on a case-by-case basis. While the following benchmark standards are used during the review process, we consider the overall application rather than making a decision based on any single factor. Our goal is to determine an acceptable level of risk for the property owner by evaluating an applicant's past performance and current circumstances.

Benchmark Qualification Standards

  1. Income-to-rent ratio should not exceed 35%.
  2. Credit score alone is not a determining factor; however, prior credit history and credit usage will be reviewed.
  3. No reported foreclosure or bankruptcy within the past three (3) years.
  4. A verifiable, favorable reference from previous landlord(s), or proof of homeownership with a mortgage in good standing.
  5. Applicants with approved pets must provide a renters insurance certificate with liability coverage for the pet(s), listing 3 Options Realty as a person of interest on the policy within five (5) days of move-in.
  6. No felony convictions resulting in a prison sentence of one (1) year or longer.
  7. No outstanding court money judgments.
  8. No more than two (2) adults per primary bedroom and one (1) adult per guest bedroom. Guest bedrooms may accommodate up to two (2) children (18 years or younger), unless local zoning regulations permit otherwise.
  9. No more than three (3) unrelated adults (roommates) per household.
  10. A fully completed and truthful rental application is required from every applicant age 18 or older.
  11. Requests for reasonable accommodation for approved applicants must be submitted prior to lease signing.

Lease Signing Requirements

If your application is approved, two forms of photo identification will be required at the time of lease signing.

Management may waive one or more benchmark standards when other strengths within the application sufficiently offset those conditions.

Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity

When multiple applications are received, our policy is to approve the best-qualified applicant. Applications submitted with a reservation deposit may receive additional consideration, as this demonstrates a stronger commitment to lease the property.

3 Options Realty fully supports and complies with all federal and state Fair Housing laws, rules, and regulations. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

Tips for Applicants With Credit Concerns

If your financial history includes some rough patches, here's how to strengthen your application:

  • Address the issue directly. Don't ignore it or make excuses, show what you've done to fix it.
  • Avoid credit repair scams. Many "credit repair" companies are disingenuous. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) is a legitimate, reputable resource.
  • Write a letter of explanation. A short, honest, well-written letter explaining your circumstances can make a real difference.
  • Provide references. Ask your employer and previous landlord for a written reference to include with your application.

Questions or Concerns?

If you believe that one of our agents or staff members has mistreated you in any way, particularly regarding Fair Housing standards, please contact our broker, Shane Cargile, at 678.397.1282.