Core Qualifications
Common Reasons for Declining Applications
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Income below 3 times the monthly rent
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Credit score under 650 (This does not apply to applicants who receive a government rent subsidy and wish to submit alternative proof of their ability to pay their share of the rent.)
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Eviction judgments within the past 7 years
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Undischarged bankruptcies
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No pets under 6 months old; aggressive breeds are not permitted.
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Negative reference from a landlord
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Move-in date is too far in the future
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IMPORTANT: We cannot process incomplete applications. Please ensure that your application is complete with all required documents before submitting.
Tenant Screening Standards
Necessary Details
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Copy of a government-issued identification
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Rental reference details for the past three years
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Dependent information (optional)
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Co-applicants: All individuals aged 18 and over who will be living in the property must complete their own separate application (optional)
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Service Animal details (must be assessed through PetScreening – $30 fee per animal, refundable upon verification)
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Emotional Support Animal details (must be assessed through PetScreening – $30 fee per animal, refundable upon verification)
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Pet information (does not require PetScreening)
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Please have a photo of your pet available
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For dogs only: Proof of breed, age, and weight (acceptable documentation includes pet licenses or veterinary records)
Mastering the Property Application: Everything You Need to Know
How to Access the Application
On our properties list page, locate the property that interests you and click the blue 'Submit an Application' button to get started.
Supplemental Applicants
All individuals aged 18 and older residing in the home are required to submit an application. To avoid any delays in the process, please ensure that all co-applicants complete their applications as well.
Income Validation
Ensure that the income stated on your application aligns with the employer information provided. For instance, you should not list McDonald's as your employer while submitting pay stubs from Burger King.
Move-In Financial Requirements
To secure your new home, please submit your move-in funds, including the first month's rent and security deposit, within 24 hours of your application approval.
Property Sold in Its Present Condition, Without Alterations.
Important Notice: All of our properties are offered as-is. This means we do not accommodate requests for cosmetic alterations or improvements, such as wall painting or blinds installation.
Policies for Cosigners and Guarantors
Application will be accepted only for applicants without a credit history.
For applicants without a credit history, a cosigner may be accepted. The cosigner must be a California resident and provide documentation of lawful, verifiable income that is at least six times the monthly rent. Additionally, the cosigner should have a credit score of 700 or higher. Please note that only one cosigner is permitted per lease.
Guidelines for Pet Owners
Pets: If the property permits dogs or cats and you are applying with one, please provide the following information:
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Pet's Name
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Pet's Breed
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Pet's Weight
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Pet's Age
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A recent photo of your pet
Application Status: Approved
If approved, we require the security deposit and first month’s rent to be paid in full upon signing the lease. Applicants lease start date is a determining factor. The lease start date must be within 14 days from the date the property is available. Please check the available date listed on the advertisement. If conditionally approved, you may be offered the rental with an increased deposit.
Prospective Tenants
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What resources are available for new landlords in Santa Cruz?landlords in Santa Cruz? Many local organizations, online forums, and property management companies provide resources and guidance for new landlords. Additionally, attending local landlord workshops can be beneficial.
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How can I ensure a smooth transition for new tenants?Provide a comprehensive move-in checklist, clearly communicate policies and expectations, and conduct a walkthrough with the tenant to address any questions or concerns.
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What safety regulations should I comply with?Ensure compliance with local safety regulations, including smoke and carbon monoxide detector installation, proper electrical and plumbing systems, and adherence to fire safety codes.
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How do I set up utilities for my rental property?Contact local utility providers to set up accounts for water, electricity, gas, and internet services. Determine whether these will be included in the rent or the tenant's responsibility.
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What maintenance tasks should be completed before renting?Prioritize essential repairs, perform a thorough cleaning, ensure appliances are functional, check plumbing and electrical systems, and address any safety concerns such as smoke detectors.
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How can I effectively market my rental property?Utilize online rental platforms, social media, and local advertising. Professional property management companies often have established marketing strategies and can help you reach a broader audience.
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What is the process for tenant screening?Tenant screening typically involves collecting applications, conducting background checks (credit, rental history, employment verification), and assessing applicants based on predetermined criteria.
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How do I determine the right rental price for my property?Research comparable properties in your area, consider the property’s condition and amenities, and consult your property management company for insights on market trends.
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What should I include in my rental agreement?A rental agreement should include details such as rent amount, payment due dates, lease duration, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding pets and smoking.
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How do I prepare my property for rental?To prepare your property, ensure it is clean, well-maintained, and compliant with safety regulations. Consider making necessary repairs, freshening up the decor, and addressing any landscaping needs.
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What documents do I need to provide to a property management company?You will typically need to provide property deeds, insurance documents, existing lease agreements, maintenance records, and any pertinent local compliance information.
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How do I get started with property management in Santa Cruz?To get started, research property management companies in the area, evaluate their services, and schedule consultations to determine which company aligns with your needs.
