Income and credit
Many landlords ask for income of a stated multiple of the monthly rent, a credit check and a background check. Requirements vary by building and landlord, so ask for the criteria before you pay an application fee.
If you lack U.S. credit, offer proof of income, bank statements, employer letters or a co-signer.
Upfront money
Typical upfront payments include the first month, a security deposit, sometimes the last month and application or administrative fees. Florida has rules on how security deposits are held and returned, so keep your lease and receipts.
Compare total move-in cost, not only the monthly rent.
Documents to prepare
ID or passport, proof of income, recent bank statements, employer letter, references and, for foreign tenants, visa or immigration documents. Having them ready helps you win a good unit.
Translations may be needed for foreign documents.
Lease terms to read
Check the lease length, renewal and rent increase terms, pet and guest rules, who pays utilities, early termination and maintenance duties. Ask about parking and amenities.
Never sign a lease you have not read in full; ask for a translation if needed.
Condo approvals
Many condo buildings require an association approval of the tenant, with an application, background check and fees. This can take days or weeks and may add a move-in deposit.
Ask the landlord's agent whether approval is required and how long it takes.
Avoid rental scams
Do not send money before viewing a property, and verify that the person offering the unit has the right to rent it. Be careful with prices that look too low and with requests to pay by gift cards or unusual transfers.
Your agent can confirm ownership and listing status.
Common mistakes
Paying deposits before reading the lease, skipping the move-in inspection, ignoring approval timelines and not photographing the condition of the unit.
Another mistake is not asking about renewal rent increases.
Practical tip
Take dated photos and video of the unit on move-in and send a short email listing existing damage. This record helps you recover your deposit when you leave.
Budgeting the move
Add up first month, deposit, fees, moving costs, furniture and utility set-up. Many tenants forget parking fees, pet deposits and renter's insurance, which some buildings require. A realistic total helps you choose between units.
Next step
Tell us your budget and move date, and we will shortlist rentals and explain the process. Lidiya Tretyak is a licensed Florida real estate agent with Douglas Elliman and speaks English, Russian and Ukrainian; the first consultation is free.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Laws and programs change — confirm details with a Florida attorney and a US tax professional.
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