Moving to a new city
How do I apply for an apartment from out of state?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
The same way locals do, just online. Most landlords accept an out-of-state ID, run the same credit and background checks, take the application fee through a portal and send the lease for electronic signature. Help them trust you with a short call, a clear reason for the move and your documents ready.
Landlords are wary of remote applicants too, because scammers use fake applications. A quick phone or video call where you explain your move date and reason puts you ahead of silent applicants.
- Ask what the landlord needs from out-of-state applicants and how soon after approval the lease must start. Many will not hold a unit empty for more than a few weeks.
- Send everything at once: ID, proof of income, a reference from your current landlord and a one-paragraph note about your move.
- Pay the application fee through the official portal or a traceable method, only after you have toured the place live or had someone see it.
- Review the lease line by line before signing electronically, and ask for a copy signed by both sides.
- Arrange key pickup and a move-in inspection time before you travel.
If you are moving for a new job and have no pay stubs yet, see rent and applications for how landlords treat offer letters.
Keep your current landlord on good terms while you apply elsewhere. Their reference is often the first call your new landlord makes.
Want the whole picture? Read How to Find Housing Before You Move to a New City.