1. Know what you can afford
Most US landlords require renters to demonstrate income equal to 2.5–3× the monthly rent. So for a $3,000/mo apartment, you'd typically need to show $90,000+ in annual income (or combined household income if there are multiple renters).
If you don't meet the income threshold on your own — common for international renters, students, or freelancers — landlords often accept a cosigner/guarantor, a larger security deposit, or several months of rent prepaid up front.
2. Prepare your documents
Most landlords request all of the following before approving an application:
- Photo ID (passport or driver's license)
- Proof of income: recent pay stubs, last 2–3 months of bank statements, or tax returns if self-employed
- Employment verification letter
- References from previous landlords (current + prior)
- Credit check authorization (landlord pulls it)
- For international renters: visa documentation, proof of funds, sometimes an international credit report
Having a single PDF "renter packet" with all these documents ready dramatically improves your chances in competitive markets.
3. Application fees and deposits
Application fee
Most landlords charge a non-refundable application fee of $50–$200 per applicant to cover the credit and background check. This is paid directly to the landlord or property management, not to your agent.
Move-in costs
The standard move-in package in Florida and most US markets is:
- First month's rent
- Last month's rent (in some markets)
- Security deposit (typically 1× monthly rent, sometimes 1.5–2× for higher-risk applicants)
- Application fee (non-refundable)
For a $3,000/mo apartment in Miami, expect to put down roughly $6,000–$9,000 before you get the keys.
4. The lease
Most US residential leases are for 12 months, though shorter (6 months) and longer (24 months) terms exist. Pay attention to:
- Renewal terms. Does the lease auto-renew or require explicit re-signing?
- Rent increase caps. Florida has no statewide rent control, so renewal rates can be raised significantly.
- Pet policy. Many buildings restrict breeds/sizes and charge an additional pet deposit and monthly pet rent.
- Subletting. Most leases prohibit subletting without landlord approval.
- Early termination. The penalty for breaking the lease early — usually 2 months' rent or until a new tenant is found.
5. Who pays the agent
In Miami and most of Florida, the landlord pays the agent's fee, not the renter. Some buildings and luxury properties don't offer a broker fee, in which case your agent may ask you to cover their fee directly (typically equivalent to one month's rent) — but the agent should disclose this up front. Through BALDUR, the partner agent's service to you is free in standard scenarios.
6. Move-in day
On move-in day, walk through the unit with the landlord or property manager and document any existing damage (photos and a written list, both signed). This protects your security deposit when you move out. Take photos of meter readings if you're responsible for utilities.
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