Applying for a rental home should be straightforward and transparent. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Doorstead's rental application process, from scheduling your first showing to moving into your new home.

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Step 1: How to Schedule a Property Showing

Before applying for any Doorstead rental property, you must first view the home in person; we want to ensure a home is the right fit for you. Here's how to schedule your showing:

1. Find a property you're interested in on Doorstead's listing site or Zillow
2. Submit an inquiry through the listing
3. Receive an email with a scheduling form to book your showing
4. Attend your scheduled property tour

At the showing, we’ll send you a text and email with an application link, so you can take the next step.

If questions pop up after your tour, our team is ready to help. You can text us at (559) 215-1589 or email prospects@doorstead.com. 

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Step 2: What Are the Rental Requirements?

Who Needs to Apply?

Once you're ready to apply, ensure that every adult occupant (18+) submits their own application simultaneously. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis as required by law in applicable markets, so the sooner you get your application in, the better!

What Are The Rental Requirements?

To ensure a smooth approval (usually within 24–48 hours), please have the following ready:

• Income & Credit: We look for a combined gross income of at least 3x the rent and an average credit score of 650+.
• Documentation: We require official documents rather than screenshots. Missing paperwork is the most common reason for delays!
• Flexibility: We welcome international applicants (even without US credit) and Section 8/housing voucher holders.

Can I Apply Without Meeting Standard Requirements?

If your credit score or income doesn't quite meet the requirements, don’t worry; you still have options. You may be able to add a Guarantor (someone residing in the US who makes 5x the rent) or, in CA and MA, provide a higher security deposit. 

If you’re looking for assistance on a special condition, reach out to our team at prospects@doorstead.com.

Why Would a Rental Application Be Denied? 

To help your application move through smoothly, ensure you meet our core criteria. The most common reasons for a denial include:

• Financial Qualifications: Not meeting the minimum credit score or the 3x income-to-rent ratio.
• Rental History: Eviction filings within the past 36 months or collections related to the rental industry (such as past due rent or utility bills).
• Background Check: Negative criminal history (where permitted by law).

If an application is denied for any reason, we will notify you promptly via email.

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Step 3: What Happens After Rental Application Approval?

Congratulations—you’re approved! This is the home stretch. Once approved, you will receive your lease. You have 24 to 48 hours to review and sign it to secure your spot.

Security Deposit

The security deposit (typically equal to one month’s rent) will need to be paid before your lease start date. 

After signing:

1. You'll receive tenant portal setup instructions via email
2. Submit payment through the portal. . Due to ACH payments taking up to 48 hours to clear—and longer if initiated on a Friday evening—we recommend handling this immediately. We cannot hand over keys until the deposit has cleared our account.

Move-In Day

At 6:00 AM on your lease commencement date, check your email! We’ll send full instructions on how to collect your keys and start your new chapter.

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FAQ

• Are pets allowed? Pet policies vary by unit. Some units require a pet deposit or fee per pet. Check the listing for details.
• What about service animals and emotional support animals? Per FHA guidelines, Doorstead considers service animals and emotional support animals with proper documentation.
• How many people can live in the rental? Standard occupancy limit is "two people per bedroom plus one" (example: 7 people maximum in a 3-bedroom home).
• What lease terms are available? Doorstead primarily offers 12-month leases. Specific lease terms are listed on each property. Short-term and corporate leases are generally not available.
• Who pays for utilities? Utility costs vary by usage and property. Check individual listings for any provided estimates.

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Contact Doorstead's Leasing Team

Have more specific questions? The best way to reach our team is at prospects@doorstead.com, or you can dive deeper into the fine print by reviewing our Doorstead Statement of Rental Policy.