Rental Requirements
Everything you need to know before you apply — requirements, the leasing process, and what to expect.
How the Leasing Process Works
1. Tour
Schedule a tour of the property and review the rental requirements to make sure the home is a good fit.
2. Talk
We may reach out for a brief phone call to go over availability, answer your questions, and confirm next steps.
3. Apply
We'll send you a link to our online application. Each adult applicant (18+) pays a $60 non-refundable application fee.
4. Screening
We'll check credit history and verify employment. You'll receive an email asking for your permission before we run the report.
5. Review & Decision
We review the application and screening results. If approved, we'll email you a lease packet for electronic signature.
6. Sign Lease & Pay Deposit
After signing, you'll get access to our Resident Portal to make payments. The security deposit is due at signing and can be paid online.
7. Move In
Before your move-in date, provide proof of utility transfer and renter's insurance. First month's rent and any other move-in charges are due on move-in day.
Rental Requirements
Age
All applicants must be 18 or older. Every occupant 18+ must submit their own application — including those living with a parent or guardian.
Identification
A valid, government-issued photo ID is required. Visa holders must provide their visa number and expiration date — lease terms won't extend past that date. Applicants without an SSN or ITIN must provide a valid I-94, I-94W, or I-20.
Income
Combined gross household income must be at least 3x the monthly rent. For example, a $1,400/month rental requires at least $4,200/month in combined income.
Acceptable verification: recent pay stubs, W-2 or tax return, 2–3 months of bank statements, or an offer letter (required for out-of-state applicants).
Credit
A credit report will be pulled for each applicant. A score of 600 or above is preferred; for joint applications, at least one applicant must meet this threshold.
Applications may be denied for low scores, unpaid debts, liens, judgments, high debt-to-income ratios, late payment history, or recent bankruptcy.
Rental History
Previous landlord references may be requested. Applications may be denied for prior evictions, outstanding balances owed to former landlords or utility companies, or other negative rental history. Any such debts must be paid before approval.
Security Deposit
Due at lease signing. Typically equal to one month's rent. Cash is not accepted.
Renter's Insurance
Required for the full lease term with a minimum of $100,000 in personal liability coverage. Proof must be provided at least 3 days before move-in. If coverage lapses, force-placed insurance will be charged to your account.
Utilities
Tenants are responsible for transferring utilities into their name. Proof of transfer must be provided before move-in.
Occupancy
The standard guideline is no more than 2 persons per bedroom. Offices, dens, alcoves, and lofts do not count as bedrooms. Anyone staying more than 14 days in a calendar month must be listed on the lease.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted inside any property.
Co-Signers
If you don't meet the income or credit requirements, a qualified co-signer and/or prepayment of last month's rent may be considered. Co-signers must meet the same income and credit standards as a primary applicant.
Criminal History
A background check is conducted for each applicant. Applications will be denied for any of the following:
- Felony convictions for sexual offenses, murder/homicide, or kidnapping — within the past 30 years
- Felony convictions for any other violent offense — within the past 15 years
- Felony convictions of any other type (excluding traffic offenses or simple marijuana possession) — within the past 7 years
- Misdemeanor convictions for sexual or weapons offenses — within the past 5 years
- Misdemeanor convictions for violent offenses — within the past 3 years
- Any active criminal charges, regardless of disposition
- Exact name match on the OFAC Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) Watch List
Pet Policy
Pets may or may not be permitted depending on the property — please inquire before applying. Where pets are allowed, the following fees apply:
- One pet: $350 non-refundable move-in fee + $25/month pet rent
- Two pets: $500 non-refundable move-in fee + $50/month pet rent
Breed Restrictions
The following breeds (or any mix) are generally not permitted without written management approval: Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Doberman, German Shepherd, Chow Chow, Akita, Malamute, Husky, Great Dane, Belgian Malinois, Cane Corso, and Wolf Hybrids. Additional restrictions may apply by property.
Service Animals & Emotional Support Animals
ADA-recognized service animals are exempt from pet restrictions and fees. Emotional Support Animals require a written letter from a licensed healthcare provider confirming a disability-related need. Online certifications, ID cards, vests, and registration certificates are not accepted.
Reasonable Accommodations
Applicants or tenants who need a reasonable accommodation or modification based on a disability-related need may submit a written request to management. The requesting party may be responsible for associated costs and, in some cases, may be required to restore the premises upon lease termination.
Equal Housing Opportunity. Poteet Realty Group adheres to all Fair Housing laws and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, or any other protected class. Application materials are available in multiple languages upon request.