Apple Realty Rental Process

Last Updated October 30, 2026 @ 23:42 PM

Apple Realty manages several rental properties in the area. We typically prefer that applicants view a property in person or drive by it before submitting an application. However, for applicants who are out of the area or applying for apartment complexes like Poplar Ridge Apartments, we allow applications without an in-person visit, provided all other requirements are met.

Income & Credit Requirements

Our rental policy is designed to help keep your monthly rent manageable and support your financial stability. The combined gross monthly income of all adults on the lease must be at least 3 times the monthly rent (rent no more than about 30% of income; 25% or less is preferred). Rent plus your other monthly debt payments (car loans, credit cards, student loans, and other debts) must total no more than 50% of your combined gross monthly income. The specific rent and deposit amounts for each property are clearly outlined on the listing pages for transparency.

While perfect credit isn't a prerequisite for tenancy, applicants with credit scores below 650 will be asked to provide a higher security deposit or may need a co-signer. We have a Co-Signer Application Form for cases where a non-tenant guarantees the lease, such as for low or no credit scores, insufficient income, or parents co-signing for students.

Co-signers require a minimum 700 credit score and a double security deposit.

The Application

Once you've decided to rent one of our properties, apply online using the Application link on the property's listing page, and submit the initial security deposit (amount listed on the listing page) using one of our payment options.

Completed applications can also be sent by mail or dropped off in person using the 24-hour drop-box beside the front door of our office.

Every adult staying in the home must submit an application. Don't hesitate to call if you need assistance or have questions.

Security Deposit

The initial security deposit, as specified on the property's listing page, must be submitted with your application. If any applicant in a household has a credit score below 650, an additional deposit is required.

Please note that the security deposit is refunded if your application is denied but is non-refundable in all other cases, including if you withdraw your application or change your mind.

Payment Options

• Online Payment: You may securely submit your security deposit online via Deposit Link. Please note that a $18 convenience fee applies to this option.
• In Person, By Mail, or Drop Box: You may also bring your deposit to our office, send it by mail, or leave it in our 24-hour drop box located at our office. Money orders or cashier's checks only are accepted—no cash, please.

Background Check

How we review applications: We look at the whole application, including income, debts, credit and payment history, rental history, and background. Meeting one requirement alone doesn't guarantee approval. Every applicant is reviewed using the same criteria.

After we receive your application and initial security deposit, we run a background check on each adult applicant through our property management software. It includes a review of credit, criminal background, rental history, and income verification. You'll receive an email when your background check begins, but there's nothing extra for you to do and nothing to pay upfront.

There is a $39.95 background check fee per adult applicant and co-signer. It is not collected with your application. If you are approved, it is added to your tenant account.

The application review and background check process typically takes 3 business days. Please allow additional time if your references are not responsive. Someone from Apple Realty will notify you of your approval status.

Before You Can Move In

Once you are approved, we'll prepare the lease paperwork and get it ready for you to sign. After you have signed the lease, arrange for the utilities to be transferred into your name and ensure you obtain a receipt.

Before we give you the keys, here's what we'll need:

• 1st month's rent payment (No personal checks—instant & secure funds only) We require a full 30 days' rent at lease start. Your 2nd month will be prorated. After you move in, all rent is due on the first.
• Any additional security deposit (Required for applicants with credit scores below 650)
• Paid utility receipts showing your name, property address, and utility activation date (Email to the office)
• Copy of renters insurance declaration with Apple Realty named as "party of interest," "additional interest," or "additional interested party"

After we receive these from you, you're free to move in on the lease start date!

How Fast Can I Move In?

Most applicants are in their new home about a week after applying. Applications are submitted online and go straight into our rental management system, and every home we advertise is ready for move-in, so there is no waiting on repairs or cleaning.

Your timeline depends on the review and background check (typically 3 business days), how quickly your references respond, getting your lease prepared and signed, and having your utilities, renters insurance, and first month's rent in place. Some move-ins happen sooner than a week, depending on how busy our office is and how quickly you complete each step.

To keep things moving, submit your application and deposit together, watch for the background check email, start on your renters insurance while you wait for approval, and arrange your utilities as soon as you sign the lease.

Denials

If your application is denied, someone from Apple Realty will get in touch to discuss the return of the security deposit and the details of the application.

If the decision is based on information in your background check report, you will also receive a notice that names the screening company and explains your right to get a free copy of the report and to dispute anything that is inaccurate.

Assistance Animals Policy

At Apple Realty, we are committed to complying with all fair housing laws. Assistance animals, including service animals and emotional support animals, are welcome in our properties as required by law, even where pets are not otherwise allowed. Pet fees and pet rent do not apply to assistance animals. If you have an assistance animal, please let us know and provide any necessary documentation during the application process, and we will ensure a smooth review. For any questions about this policy, please contact our office.