Practical Renter's Guide

Practical renter's guide

Educational information for first-time renters — not legal or financial advice

How much rent can you afford?

A common guideline is to spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on housing costs.

$30k/yr
~$750/mo
$40k/yr
~$1,000/mo
$50k/yr
~$1,250/mo
$60k/yr
~$1,500/mo

Calculate your budget

$
Suggested maximum monthly rent
—
30% of your gross monthly income
Gross monthly income
—
30% housing guideline
—
Est. utilities & internet (~$150)
−$150
Suggested rent budget
—

Also budget for utilities, internet, renter's insurance, laundry, and any pet fees on top of rent.

Where to find rentals

Online platforms

Zillow Rentals
Apartments.com
Realtor.com Rentals
Facebook Marketplace

Local sources

Community groups
Local newspapers
Property mgmt companies
Referrals & word of mouth

What landlords typically look for

  • Income of 2.5–3× the monthly rent
  • Rental history
  • Employment verification
  • Credit history
  • Background check

Documents to have ready

Driver's license
Social Security number
Recent pay stubs
Employer contact info
Personal references
Previous landlord info
Proof of income

Application fees

Typical fees range from $25–$75. Watch out for red flags:

Unusually high fees
Cash-only payment requests
Asked to pay before viewing the property

If you're turned down

Common reasons include:

  • Insufficient income
  • Poor credit history
  • Lack of rental history
  • Prior evictions
  • Incomplete application

Ask the landlord what you can improve for future applications.

How to spot rental scams

If you notice any of these warning signs, proceed with extreme caution or walk away.

Rent far below market value — if it seems too good to be true, it usually is
Requests for payment before you've viewed the property in person
Owner claims to be out of the country and can't meet
Payment requested via gift cards or cryptocurrency
No written lease offered
Refusal to meet in person or show the property

How to protect yourself

Always visit the property in person before paying anything
Verify the landlord owns or manages the property (check county records)
Pay by check or traceable method — never cash, gift cards, or crypto
Get everything in writing before handing over any money
Report suspected scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov

Before signing a lease

Review these items carefully before you sign anything.

  • Lease length — month-to-month vs. fixed term
  • Late fees — amount and grace period
  • Utility responsibilities — what's included vs. your bill
  • Pet policies — deposits, monthly fees, breed restrictions
  • Guest restrictions — overnight stays, subletting rules

During the walk-through

Document everything before you move in to protect your security deposit.

  • 1
    Photograph walls, floors, ceilings, and every room
  • 2
    Test all appliances, windows, and doors
  • 3
    Note any existing damage in writing on the move-in checklist
  • 4
    Request a signed copy of the move-in checklist from the landlord
  • 5
    Keep all photos and documents in a safe place

Renter's insurance

Renter's insurance is one of the most affordable protections available to tenants.

$10–$25
per month
Typical cost of a renter's insurance policy — often less than a streaming subscription.
Protects your belongings from theft, fire, and certain damage
May be required by your landlord — ask before signing
Also covers liability if someone is injured in your home

Security deposits

Security deposits protect landlords against unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear.

  • Always request a written move-in checklist
  • Document existing damage with photos before moving in
  • Normal wear and tear (scuffs, minor fading) should not be deducted
  • Ask about your state's rules for deposit return timelines

Questions to ask before renting

  • What utilities are included in the rent?
  • Who handles repairs, and how quickly?
  • Is parking included or available?
  • Is renter's insurance required?
  • What are the average monthly utility costs?

Renting is often the first step toward housing stability. Understanding your budget, knowing your responsibilities, and learning how to avoid scams can help you find safe and affordable housing.