The Playbook / Live It / Firstly — Apply, Approve, Move
Sample Qualification Guidelines.
A representative example of what a professional community's written qualification criteria look like. Use it as a yardstick, not a rulebook — every community sets its own.
Income Requirements
- Gross monthly household income must be at least 3× the monthly rent.
- Income must be verifiable — 2 recent pay stubs, an offer letter, tax return (self-employed), or 3+ months of bank statements.
Credit History
- A credit check is conducted for all applicants 18+.
- Preferred credit score: 650 or higher.
- Applicants with scores 550–649 may be considered with an additional deposit or co-signer.
- No open bankruptcies or unpaid rental-related collections.
Rental History
- Minimum 12 months of verifiable rental history preferred.
- No evictions in the last 5 years.
- No outstanding balances owed to previous landlords.
- Rental references may be contacted.
Criminal Background Check
- A criminal background check is conducted.
- Felony convictions may result in denial, particularly if related to violence, drug manufacturing, or property damage.
- Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with Fair Housing law.
Occupancy Limits
- Studio / 1 BR: Maximum 2 occupants.
- 2 BR: Maximum 4 occupants.
- 3 BR: Maximum 6 occupants.
- Based on HUD guidelines.
Application Fees & Deposits
- Non-refundable application fee: $50 per adult applicant (typical).
- Security deposit: usually equal to one month's rent, may vary based on screening.
- Holding deposit may be required upon approval to reserve the unit.
Fair housing
Equal housing opportunity is provided to all applicants under federal, state, and local fair housing laws. Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic is not allowed.
Printable Sample Qualification Guidelines
Optional printable version of this resource.
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