A Step-by-Step Guide for Tenants
Renting a home or apartment in Broward County, Florida can be a smooth and efficient experience when you understand the process upfront. One of the biggest challenges tenants face is not knowing what to expect—especially when it comes to documentation, approval timelines, and costs. Below is a clear breakdown of how the rental process typically works, along with key differences between leasing office–managed properties and privately owned units governed by associations.
Step 1: Preparing Your Documentation
Having your paperwork ready before applying can significantly speed up the approval process. Most landlords and property managers in Broward County will request the following:
Last two months of pay stubs or two years of tax returns
(If self-employed or between jobs, bank statements may be requested.)
Completed rental application (type-in version; no need to print)
Copy of your credit report
Valid driver’s license or government-issued ID
Background and rental eviction report
(This can be obtained through our office, combined with the credit report, for $40 and emailed separately.)
Providing complete and accurate documents upfront helps avoid delays and unnecessary back-and-forth.
Step 2: Credit, Income, and Background Review
While each landlord has their own criteria, most rentals in Broward County follow similar guidelines:
Credit score: Typically 600–700, depending on the property
Income requirement: Proof of earning 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent
Background considerations:
Recent felonies or evictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis
Transparency is key—disclosing issues early helps determine realistic options
Leasing Offices vs. Private Landlords: Key Differences
Understanding the type of property you’re applying to is critical, as the approval process can vary significantly.
Leasing Offices with On-Site Management
Properties with professional leasing offices and on-site management tend to be:
Less strict with credit score and down payment requirements
Much faster to approve, often within 3 to 7 days
More flexible with income or credit challenges
Commission-friendly, with approximately 85% paying the realtor’s commission
These properties are ideal for tenants who want quicker approvals and a more streamlined process.
Private Landlords with Associations
Condos or townhomes owned by private landlords and governed by homeowners or condo associations involve a more layered approval process:
Two-part approval (landlord approval first, then association approval)
Stricter credit and income requirements
Longer timelines, typically 2 to 4 weeks, due to association review schedules
Additional documentation and interviews may be required by the association
While these properties can be great options, tenants should be prepared for a longer and more detailed approval process.
Costs Associated with Renting in Broward County
Tenants should budget for the following common costs:
Down payment:
First month’s rent
Last month’s rent
Full security deposit
(One month’s deposit is usually due within two days of the landlord signing the contract; the remaining balance is due on move-in day.)
Association application fee:
Typically $100–$150 per adult
Credit, background, and eviction report:
$40
Most if not all real estate brokerages charge a processing fee for the transaction. There are also occasions where some may charge an upfront retainer fee:
$100 - $250, due on the day of closing
$75 - $150, due upfront
Understanding these costs ahead of time helps prevent surprises and ensures a smoother move-in experience.
Final Thoughts
From Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood to Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Weston, and Coral Springs, renting in Broward County requires realistic expectations. The key is preparation, clear communication, and choosing the right type of property based on your timeline and financial profile. Leasing office–managed properties offer speed and flexibility, while private landlord properties may require patience and stronger financial qualifications.
My goal is to guide tenants through every step of the process, set realistic expectations, and help you secure a home as efficiently as possible.
If you’d like help determining which rental options best fit your situation, feel free to reach out—having the right strategy can save you time, money, and stress.
Marlon Beckford
Realtor, SRS, ABR, RENE
United Realty Group
📞 Phone: 954-200-1936
✉️ Email: Marlontheagent@Gmail.com
🌐 Website: www.SellingBrowardCounty.com