Prepare
to Rent

Get Ahead in Your Rental Hunt — Be a Prepared Applicant!

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1. Start with Our Application Form

Download and complete our Florida Rental Application (PDF) — your first step toward streamlined approval. Make sure every field is completed and signed.

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2. Obtain Your Credit Report

A minimum credit score of 640+ is typically required in Florida rentals. Landlords use this to assess reliability. Request your free credit report annually from AnnualCreditReport.Com.  If your score is lower, visit our Credit Improvement page.

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3. Provide the Past 3 Months of Pay Stubs

These demonstrate consistent income and help prove your ability to pay rent. Submit digital or printed copies.

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4. Share 3 Months of Bank Statements

Bank statements verify your income deposits and overall financial stability. Access them via your online banking and download the last quarter’s statements.

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5. Valid Government I.D. (Driver’s License, State ID, or Passport)

Bring a copy of your photo ID—landlords keep a copy on file. If you have no license, a passport or state ID works just fine.

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6. Letter of Recommendation or Rental History

A letter from your previous landlord or property manager can significantly strengthen your application. If unavailable, provide contact details for at least one past rental provider.

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7. Personal and Professional References

Be ready to list trusted adults—such as employers, former landlords, or volunteer supervisors—who can vouch for you. Always get their permission before submitting contact details.

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8. Job History Summary

Provide a brief summary of your employment over the last 12 months: company names, roles, contact info. Steady work history signals reliability; retired applicants should list recent jobs too.

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9. Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) & Homeless Status

We welcome all applicants. If you participate in a housing choice program obtain a copy of your voucher.  If you  are experiencing housing challenges, [click here for more resources and assistance] .

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10. Background & Police Check

Many landlords will request a background check. Being upfront about past convictions can help if they’re disclosed proactively. Transparency matters. To get a police check or criminal background check on yourself, you can contact your local police department or the FBI for a copy of your identity history summary. You'll likely need to complete an application form, provide identification, and pay a fee. You can also utilize third-party background check providers for a more comprehensive report, which may include additional information beyond criminal history. 

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11. Renters Insurance

While not always mandatory, renters insurance protects your belongings and injury liability. We strongly recommend obtaining a policy before move-in. And in fact many Landlords require it. 

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12. Application & Move-In Funds​

Here is an example of what it could cost to rent a $1500 a month place.

Typical fees and deposits may include:

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First & Last Month’s Rent  $3,000

Application Fee $100–150

Condo/HOA Move-In Fee $300–500

Landlord Security Deposit $1,500

Estimated Grand Total $5,150

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Real costs vary—larger complexes may offer discounts, but often require stricter credit scores.

✅ Ready to Apply?

Email your completed documents to:
Carroll@appflorida.com
or submit via our online portal.

Our team reviews applications promptly—and brings your rental vision to life.

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Why Choose American Paradise Properties?

• ✔️ Expert tenant matching in Miami‑Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.

• ✔️ Fast, efficient applications backed by professional screening.

• ✔️ Trusted support from local experts who know the market.

Need help preparing your documents or unsure about a requirement? Contact us anytime.

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