What Does “Application Pending” Mean On A Rental Property?

When navigating a rental application, you may receive a notification from your landlord stating that your “application is pending.” At this point, you might be uncertain whether this is a positive or negative sign. In this blog post, you will receive a comprehensive answer to the question, ‘What Does “Application Pending” Mean on a Rental Property?’ and learn about the steps you can take after receiving this notice. Let’s dive into this!

Understanding The Meaning Of “Application Pending”

So, what does “Application Pending” mean on a rental property? Simply put, it means that your application is still being reviewed by the landlord or property manager. They haven’t made a final decision yet, and it could be for several reasons such as ongoing background checks (credit checks, employment verification, rental history, etc.) or if there are several promising applicants, they might be comparing them and taking some time to decide whom to choose. In some cases, the final decision might need to be made by the property owner, who might not be available immediately.

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What Happens During The “Application Pending” Stage?

All the required information is now with the landlord or the property management; they start reviewing you as a potential tenant for the property. This review process may vary from one landlord to another. Most of them use tenant screening services to gain more time and accuracy in screening, while others use traditional methods. Typically, this is what happens during the application pending stage:

1. Background Checks:

 Landlords often initiate background checks to gain insights into an applicant’s criminal history, creditworthiness, and any history of eviction. This step ensures the safety and security of the property and surrounding community.

2. Employment and Income Verification:

Verifying the applicant’s employment and income is a crucial aspect of assessing financial stability. This step ensures that the prospective tenant has the means to meet the rental payments consistently.

3. Rental History Assessment:

Contacting previous landlords allows the current landlord to understand the applicant’s track record as a tenant. This may include evaluating the tenant’s adherence to lease agreements, timeliness in rental payments, and any issues during past tenancies.

4. Reference Checks:

Personal and professional references are often contacted to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the applicant’s character, reliability, and suitability as a tenant. This step helps in gauging the applicant’s overall trustworthiness.

5. Additional Documentation:

In some cases, landlords may request additional documentation or clarification on specific aspects of the application. This could include proof of income, additional references, or explanations for certain entries on the application.

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What To Expect?

Several key expectations can help you, as an applicant, navigate the waiting period and potential outcomes more effectively. Consider these points:

1. Patience is Key:

Patience is a fundamental virtue during the “Application Pending” stage. Recognize that the comprehensive review process takes time as landlords meticulously assess your application. Understanding and accepting the time required for a thorough evaluation can alleviate unnecessary stress.

2. Keep the Landlord Informed About Any Changes:

If there are any changes to your circumstances, such as updates in employment status or contact information, it’s crucial to keep the landlord informed. Open and transparent communication demonstrates responsibility and ensures that the landlord has the most accurate and up-to-date information.

3. Be Prepared for Approvals and Denials:

Anticipate both potential outcomes: approval and denial. If your application is approved, be ready to promptly move forward with the next steps, including reviewing and signing the lease agreement. Conversely, if your application is denied, seek feedback from the landlord and use it constructively for future applications.

4. Understand Your Rights:

Familiarize yourself with your rights as a tenant, particularly those outlined in fair housing laws and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Understanding these regulations ensures that the application process adheres to legal standards and protects your rights against discrimination or unfair practices.

5. Follow Up Politely (If Not Responded Over 1 Week):

While patience is crucial, it’s also acceptable to follow up politely if the “Application Pending” status extends beyond a reasonable timeframe (average response time is 5 days to 1 week). A brief and courteous inquiry about the status of your application demonstrates your continued interest and may provide clarity on the timeline for a decision.

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Final Thought

Now that you understand “what does “application pending” mean on a rental property,” you can be prepared for the next step. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the landlord. In some unusual cases, the significance of this term may vary.

For instance, it could mean that the application is still in the envelope, and nobody has taken any action with it yet, or it may not have been read. Additionally, in certain situations, it might signify that you have been granted the property, but construction or restoration work, such as installing a new boiler or completing plumbing tasks, is still in progress. Always remain open to communication, especially when in doubt, and good luck with your next steps!

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