The Playbook / Live It / Firstly — Apply, Approve, Move
Approval ≠ Done Deal.
Congrats — you got approved. But don't start packing just yet. Approval and securing the unit are two very different things.
What "approved" actually means
- Your application was accepted after screening.
- You met the income, credit, background, and rental history requirements.
- You're eligible to rent the unit — but you haven't locked it in yet.
What actually secures the unit
- A fully signed lease.
- Any required holding or security deposit paid.
- Move-in details confirmed in writing.
A true story renters wish they'd heard sooner
An approved applicant went quiet after their approval — no lease, no deposit, no reply. The unit was re-leased to someone else. They showed up on move-in day with a suitcase to a unit that was already occupied. Approval isn't ownership.
Your Plays — protect yourself ASAP
- Stay in touch with your leasing agent daily until the lease is signed.
- Review and sign the lease promptly (but read every page — see Before You Sign).
- Pay any required holding or security deposit on the schedule they gave you.
- Confirm move-in date, time, and logistics in writing (email, not just a phone call).
Just approved? Do these next.
Now What? walks you through the exact steps between approval and keys.
Open Now What?Printable companion PDF
Optional printable version of this resource.
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