Overview of Costs

Before diving into the process, here's what you'll need to pay:

• Application Fee: $100-200 (due when applying)

• First Month's Rent: Due when applying to secure the apartment

• Last Month's Rent: Due before move-in

• Security Deposit: Equal to one month's rent (refundable after move-out if apartment is in good condition)

• Broker's Fee: one month's rent, typically due before move-in

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Step-by-Step Process

1. Connecting with Your Realtor

• You'll receive initial contact from your realtor via text or email

• They will:

  • Discuss your budget and preferences

  • Schedule apartment viewings

  • Send listings that match your criteria

  • Coordinate group tours

  • Answer questions about neighborhoods and units

Pro Tip: Be clear about your priorities (price, location, amenities) and total budget from the start.

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2. Viewing and Selecting an Apartment

• Tour multiple properties with your group

• Take photos and notes during viewings

• Discuss pros and cons with roommates

• Once you find a place you like, inform your realtor quickly as properties move fast

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3. Application Process

Required Documents

Each tenant and cosigner (usually your parent) needs to provide:

• Completed rental application

• Government-issued ID

• Proof of income or student status

• Social Security number

• Current address history

• Employment information

About Cosigners

• A cosigner is someone (usually a parent) who agrees to pay rent if you cannot

• They must:

  • Have good credit

  • Show proof of income

  • Complete a separate cosigner application

  • Be jointly responsible for rent payments

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4. Securing the Apartment

Initial Payment

• First month's rent is required to secure the apartment

• This is refundable if another group's application is accepted first

• Payment must be made promptly to hold the unit

Remaining Payments

Before move-in, you'll need to pay:

• Last month's rent

• Security deposit

• Broker's fee

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5. Lease Signing

Key Lease Terms to Understand

• Lease duration (typically 12 months)

• Monthly rent amount and payment methods

• Utility responsibilities

• Maintenance and repair policies

• Pet policies

• Noise and guest policies

• Move-in/move-out dates and times

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Important Lease Documents

1. Main Lease Agreement

   • Details all terms and conditions

   • Lists all tenants and cosigners

   • Specifies rent amounts and due dates

2. Additional Forms

   • Broker's fee disclosure

   • Lead paint notification

   • Smoke detector agreement

   • No smoking addendum

   • Apartment condition statement

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Important Dates

• Application submission

• Lease signing deadline

• Payment due dates

• Move-in date (typically 12:00 PM on start date)

• Move-out date (typically 12:00 PM on end date)​

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Tips for Success

• Read all documents carefully before signing

• Keep copies of all signed documents

• Take photos of the apartment condition at move-in

• Set up utilities before moving in

• Get renter's insurance

• Understand maintenance request procedures

• Know your rights as a tenant

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If you have questions during the process, text us!

HouseFly Phone #: (617) 752-2174

We respond fast 🙂