Rental Application Acceptance
Qualification & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Equal Opportunity Housing Provider
Thank you for your interest
in submitting a rental application for a MoveZen-managed rental home! This page is provided to help answer general questions regarding the rental application process and expected qualifications to lease one of our great homes and apartments. The following pages cover the background consideration & acceptance issues well. Visit this link to view our general application and pre-move in frequently asked questions (FAQ).
To begin, bear in mind that we manage a very wide range of homes, for an equally wide range of individual owners. We do not own the home you’re applying for and are not the final say on whether an application is accepted so long as the owner honors fair housing laws. We are very much a middle man whose job is to bring tenants and owners together in mutual satisfaction. For these reasons, our rental qualifications will vary dramatically depending mostly on the type of property and somewhat according to owner expectations. This page is meant to give some guidelines and general ideas on how we advise our rental homeowners
Rental Homes In A Digital Age
Our showing and rental application processes are both relatively simple, but highly digital. If technology is not your thing, we will accommodate as best we can but please be aware that this process is naturally slow compared to the streamlined speed of digital scheduling and rental applications, and this will put you at an unavoidable disadvantage
We rarely hold a home that’s currently vacant for more than 30 days past its first available move-in date. If a rental home is not currently available and is being enjoyed by another tenant, the home will be held for 30 days after the first available move-in date. To hold a MoveZen home, you must first submit your rental application, be approved by the owner of the home, and submit your deposit funds within 48 hours of application acceptance
Sight Unseen Rental Homes
We strongly discourage but do not prohibit renting a home without first viewing. We will include a disclaimer in the lease that waives nearly all rights to hold MoveZen accountable for minor aesthetic issues. Almost no landlord keeps their home in excellent condition, especially as rents decrease, and minor cosmetic blemishes should be expected. We will, in most cases, prioritize applications that have viewed the home, unfortunately. While not as bad of an idea, we prefer not to receive rental applications prior to viewing as well. If you do, please hold payment until requested
View a Sample MoveZen Property Management Lease Agreement
Our relatively standard and common lease is written by the Bar Association and does a good job of protecting both tenants and rental owners given the laws in our area
Appfolio is Our Credit, Criminal, Income and Payment Processing Provider
You can read more about the technical aspects of this process with their help page. Our staff cannot speak to Appfolio policies
Appfolio FAQ
We have an extensive knowledge base covering all topics in exceptional detail
Who is Victory Property Management?
We are (MoveZen), we’ve rebranded to represent a much more dynamic and customer-focused company
Qualification
Due to an explosion in application fraud, we are no longer able to accept credit reports with less than 3 items on it, very little activity despite being years old, or less than 2 years old. Because it’s usually fraud, we can’t even accept cosigners. Someone living in the home will have to have an active credit profile we can definitively verify every time. The latest fraud almost always involves one or two minor good-standing credit items with small or no balances. They have little activity overall, but decent scores. Because we estimate 85% of these applications are fraud from the beginning, we can no longer accept them.
One formal exception will be if one of the applicants is an active and publicly listed student with a local college or university
We’ve also dramatically increased our income verification requirements and that means if we cannot directly verify your income with an established 3rd party, we will require an additional $20 payment and you will have to sync your online bank logins with the same major public credit processing agency being used for the background check. Find the latest on them at the bottom of the page here. for fraud-proof income verification. It’s getting to be common and performed by a major public company.
Most of the largest companies in the country do not directly verify income and this added requirement will still be required.
All applicants must make a minimum of 3X’s the monthly rent. Meaning if the home available is currently renting for $1500 a month, the total income for all applicants for that home must be $4500 or greater per month.
We begin our assessment with the credit score but consider other factors- many of which are noted here. A credit score over 750 will warrant acceptance in most cases. Unpaid utilities are heavily weighted and will typically result in being declined, especially for higher-end homes. Habitual late payments for utilities are also considered to be a sign of higher risk.
We advise owners that medical collections or education loans rarely indicate a high risk of non-payment for rent. We encourage owners to apply minimal to no weight when these issues arise. Largely due to their strict repayment requirements, education loans must be considered, however, we encourage owners to weigh these issues lightly when considering the risk of acceptance. Having a high level of additional debt increases the risk.
One common method we use to motivate owners to accept someone with less than stellar credit is to collect the last month’s rent. This is not always available but has been helpful for many owners and tenants. Doing this dramatically lowers the risk for the owner and is also a great approach when someone has the ability since you may get a prized home, and your next move will be much easier since you won’t have to pay the last month.
Past evictions are almost a guarantee of non-acceptance. Our records only go back 10 years though so if you were evicted long ago it won’t apply. If there is some legal documentation you feel may warrant reconsideration we’ll take a look.
How Long Does It Take to Process My Rental Application?
The rental application process usually moves more quickly for those with great credit and income. Processing is fundamentally simpler in those instances. When risks and red flags appear we are required to inspect every aspect of the application more carefully.
The faster you move in plays a large role. If we have two applications of equal quality, we will take the faster move. A much faster move can even elevate a slightly riskier application over another. When applying you should list your preferred start date, but note if you could move sooner. Owners are often more strict on requirements in the early weeks but sometimes loosen their requirements with time. We strongly discourage this but it does occur as the pain of a vacant home sets in.
We do not use a timed priority. So an application received today will not receive priority over one received tomorrow. For very competitive homes this may be unavoidable to some degree. If we receive more than 5 applications on a home we will typically stop processing new ones for a time. If we have accepted an application, we will give at least 24 hours to pay before processing new applications. If you know your application is a backup, you should avoid paying until contacted.
During hot markets and with competitive homes the rental market can seem like the wild west. Customers often fly into a rage with us when a home they just viewed goes under contract, however, this is a function of the market, not our policies. It’s not unusual for us to receive 4 applications in a few hours, often right after the home hits the market, and scheduled viewings never get a chance to go inside. This inevitably leaves many unhappy, but please bear with us as there is no alternative. Competition is often frustrating, but it is inevitable. Many accuse us of being lax with communication, but that is rarely the case. More often we are processing so many requests, showings, applications, and payments that there is simply no reasonable way to stay in close contact with all potential leads. We feel it’s unfair to blame us when these issues occur with very competitive rentals and very much appreciate those who are understanding
Sometimes owners intentionally delay a decision in hopes of receiving a better application. We strongly discourage this however being their home we are limited in our options. If you need a particularly quick response please note this in your application and we’ll set a 24-hour time limit for the owner to either accept or we’ll decline and move on. Not ideal, but it is our only option against that strategy. This is also common if you aren’t moving quickly.
We hope these ideas help to simplify what is an extremely complex issue given the wide range of homes and owners we have to deal with while processing a rental application. As noted these points are guidelines, but will vary. Thank you for your interest in renting with MoveZen!
MoveZen is committed to compliance with all federal, state, and local fair housing laws. MoveZen will not discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, disability, or any other specific classes protected by applicable laws.
Pre-Application, Application, & Pre-Move In
We have an entire page dedicated to that, which you can find here. https://movezen360.com/schedule-a-self-showing/#showing-faq
Of course we do. https://movezen360.com/hometown-hero-discounts/
This article covers the following topics
Detailed FAQ
Portal / Input Problems
Rules of the Road: Primary Application Required Information
Common Security Deposit Charges on Move Out
Qualification Questions
Self-Employed Extra Screening Steps
Move Tips
Background Check National Provider to Request Copy of Credit Report
Detailed FAQ, Current Charges, Disclaimers etc
Portal / Input Problems
I was filling out the application and got kicked out, can I pick up where I left off?
Unfortunately at this time, Appfolio does not save any application information in the event of a sudden disconnection. You will need to start from the beginning.
Can I fill out a paper application: You sure can. Download this copy and return it to our office, dropbox, shipping, and USPS:
Paper Rental Application Rev 03.2025.pdf
Qualification Questions
Due to an explosion in application fraud we are no longer able to accept credit reports with less than 3 items on it, very little activity despite being years old, or less than 2 years old. Because it’s usually fraud, we can’t even accept cosigners. Someone living in the home will have to have an active credit profile we can definitively verify every time. The latest fraud almost always involves one or two minor good standing credit items with small or no balances. They have little activity overall, but decent scores. Because we estimate 85% of these applications are fraud from the beginning, we can no longer accept them.
One formal exception will be if one of the applicants is an active and publicly listed student with a local college or university
We’ve also dramatically increased our income verification requirements and that means if we cannot directly verify your income with an established 3rd party, we will require an additional $20 payment and you will have to sync your online bank logins with the same major public credit processing agency being used for the background check. Find the latest on them at the bottom of the page here. for fraud proof income verification. It’s getting to be common and performed by a major public company
Most of the largest companies in the country do not directly verify income and this added requirement will still be required.
Our showing and rental application processes are both relatively simple, but highly digital. If technology is not your thing, we will accommodate as best we can but please be aware that this process is naturally slow compared to the streamlined speed of digital scheduling and rental application, and this will put you at an unavoidable disadvantage
We rarely hold a home that’s currently vacant for more than 30 days past its first available move-in date. If a rental home is not currently available and is being enjoyed by another tenant, the home will be held for 30 days post the first available move-in date. To hold a MoveZen home, you much first submit your rental application, be approved by the owner of the home, and submit your deposit funds within 48 hours of application acceptance
We strongly discourage but do not prohibit renting a home without first viewing. We will include a disclaimer in the lease that waives nearly all rights to hold MoveZen accountable for minor aesthetic issues. Almost no landlord keeps their home in excellent condition, especially as rents decrease, and minor cosmetic blemishes should be expected. We will, in most cases, prioritize applications that have viewed the home, unfortunately. While not as bad of an idea, we prefer not to receive rental applications prior to viewing as well. If you do, please hold payment until requested
All applicants must make a minimum of 3X’s the monthly rent. Meaning if the home available is currently renting for $1500 a month, the total income for all applicants for that home must be $4500 or greater per month.
We begin our assessment with the credit score but consider other factors- many of which are noted here. A credit score over 750 will warrant acceptance in most cases. Unpaid utilities are heavily weighted and will typically result in being declined, especially for higher-end homes. Habitual late payments for utilities are also considered to be a sign of higher risk.
We advise owners that medical collections or education loans rarely indicate a high risk of non-payment for rent. We encourage owners to apply minimal to no weight when these issues arise. Largely due to their strict repayment requirements, education loans must be considered, however, we encourage owners to weigh these issues lightly when considering the risk of acceptance. Having a high level of additional debt increases the risk.
One common method we use to motivate owners to accept someone with less than stellar credit is to collect the last month’s rent. This is not always available but has been helpful for many owners and tenants. Doing this dramatically lowers the risk for the owner and is also a great approach when someone has the ability since you may get a prized home, and your next move will be much easier since you won’t have to pay the last month.
Past evictions are almost a guarantee of non-acceptance. Our records only go back 10 years though so if you were evicted long ago it won’t apply. If there is some legal documentation you feel may warrant reconsideration we’ll take a look.
The rental application process usually moves more quickly for those with great credit and income. Processing is fundamentally simpler in those instances. When risks and red flags appear we are required to inspect every aspect of the application more carefully.
The faster you move in plays a large role. If we have two applications of equal quality, we will take the faster move. A much faster move can even elevate a slightly riskier application over another. When applying you should list your preferred start date, but note if you could move sooner. Owners are often more strict on requirements in the early weeks, but sometimes loosen their requirements with time. We strongly discourage this but it does occur as the pain of a vacant home sets in.
We do not use a timed priority. So an application received today will not receive priority over one received tomorrow. For very competitive homes this may be unavoidable to some degree. If we receive more than 5 applications on a home we will typically stop processing new ones for a time. If we have accepted an application, we will give at least 24 hours to pay before processing new applications. If you know your application is a backup, you should avoid paying until contacted.
During hot markets and with competitive homes the rental market can seem like the wild west. Customers often fly into a rage with us when a home they just viewed goes under contract, however, this is a function of the market, not our policies. It’s not unusual for us to receive 4 applications in a few hours, often right after the home hits the market, and scheduled viewings never get a chance to go inside. This inevitably leaves many unhappy, but please bear with us as there is no alternative. Competition is often frustrating, but it is inevitable. Many accuse us of being lax with communication, but that is rarely the case. More often we are processing so many requests, showings, applications, and payments that there is simply no reasonable way to stay in close contact with all potential leads. We feel it’s unfair to blame us when these issues occur with very competitive rentals and very much appreciate those who are understanding
Sometimes owners intentionally delay a decision in hopes of receiving a better application. We strongly discourage this however being their home we are limited in our options. If you need a particularly quick response please note this in your application and we’ll set a 24-hour time limit for the owner to either accept or we’ll decline and move on. Not ideal, but it is our only option against that strategy. This is also common if you aren’t moving quickly.
We hope these ideas help to simplify what is an extremely complex issue given the wide range of homes and owners we have to deal with while processing a rental application. As noted these points are guidelines, but will vary. Thank you for your interest in renting with MoveZen!
MoveZen is committed to compliance with all federal, state, and local fair housing laws. MoveZen will not discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, disability, or any other specific classes protected by applicable laws.
Self-Employed Extra Screening Steps
Background Check Processing
Our background processing company is a publicly traded national leader. They aren’t perfect but are safe, secure, and follow all necessary laws in all states. As of January 2024 they are working in partnership with Experian
You can find more information on their role in the process here: https://www.appfolio.com/consumer
Request a Copy of your Screening Report or Dispute an Error
To request a copy of your report or dispute information on your report, please contact us. We will ask to verify your identity to protect the privacy of your personal information and ensure that we are not sharing your data with anyone else.
You can also contact us in the following ways:
Toll-free phone: (866) 359-3630
Secure fax: (866) 496-8077
Mail your request and details to:
Screening Consumer Relations
70 Castilian Drive
Goleta, CA 93117
Email: consumer.relations@appfolio.com
NOTE: Do not send personally identifiable information or sensitive documents, such as your Background Report or Social Security Number, via email as this is not secure.
Full Details: https://movezen360.com/apply-for-a-movezen-property-management-rental-home/
Appfolio is a national property management software company. They provide the background check service and collect the payment for your application. When you click the link below you will be routed to our portal on their site to finalize your application. https://victoryre.appfolio.com/listings
We are not the kind of company that creates policies to encourage applications that won’t be accepted, and that’s partly why we’ve included this helpful faq. However we also can’t make random refunds either so if you pay the fee you are consenting to having us process it as soon as possible. Once we begin processing the application the fee will not be refunded and any credit card chargeback attempts will be sent to collections where they pursue them in local court. We are strict about fraud. If you don’t want to pay then don’t, but once you do the funds are non-refundable. The single exception is if we never get around to processing the application. The primary reason why that might happen is that we often accept an application, or have a ton of them, and we will cut off additional processing while we either give the approved application time to pay, or process the ones we have. That is specifically meant to avoid collecting fees when you have little serious chance of getting the home. In those cases we refund all applications that came in after the cut off. This is an internal process, there are not notices or “proof” so once your payment is submitted it is non-refundable unless otherwise notified. We do not cater to demands for refunds. We try to set a fair up front policy and stick to it. After that it’s out of our hands. You can inquire if a property has applications. If not then there will not be a refund. If so we will tell you if we are in a cut off period.
To ensure you are well-prepared and organized for the next phases of the rental process, it’s essential to understand what lies ahead. From comprehending the lease agreement to settling comfortably into your new abode, this comprehensive article outlines the key aspects to anticipate after your rental application has received the green light.
Lease Review and Signing
What kind of lease do you use?
Standard Lease written by the North Carolina Bar Association to protect both tenants and landowners. We also include in our leases – proprietary provisions such as no smoking, and homes can’t be listed for sale.
Security Deposit and Rent Payment
Pay first month’s rent/ Hold payment – Must be paid within 24 hours of application acceptance to secure property
Move In Inspection
Before moving your belongings into the rental unit, it’s advisable to conduct a thorough move-in inspection. Document the existing condition of the property, including any pre-existing damage, and take photos as evidence. This will protect you from being held responsible for damage that was there before you moved in. Submit a list of upgrades and repair requests and keep a copy.
Utilities and Services Setup
Arrange for the transfer of utilities, such as electricity, water, gas, and internet, to your name. Notify the respective service providers about your move-in date and set up appointments if necessary. Make sure all services are functional before your official move-in day to ensure a smooth transition.
Renter’s Insurance
While the landlord’s insurance covers the building’s structure, it’s a good idea to consider getting renters’ insurance to protect your personal belongings and liability. Research and select an insurance policy that aligns with your needs and budget.
Settling In
After you’ve completed the necessary paperwork and moved in, take some time to settle into your new space. Familiarize yourself with the property’s amenities and nearby services. Introduce yourself to neighbors and begin establishing a positive relationship within the community.
Ongoing Communication
If you encounter any maintenance issues, repairs, or concerns, report them promptly. Addressing issues early can prevent them from becoming more significant problems down the line.
For new residents, your non-refundable hold payment (first months rent) is due within 48 hours of your application approval. Your security deposit can be paid up to the day of move-in.
Please note though that any payments of remaining funds paid 7 or less days before move-in must be in certified form. No move ins ever occur without full certified payment.
Yes! Residents can pay online via their tenant portal account.
However, if your move-in date is 7 or less days away, residents will be required to pay their security deposit, first months rent, or any additional funds via certified funds.No move ins ever occur without full certified payment.
Yes. Renters insurance is required and must be submitted to MoveZen before keys can be released for move-in.
Renters insurance is there to protect you and your belongings. In the event of a flood/fire and more, renters insurance will cover things like your belongings, lodging, and more.
In often times, renters insurance will even cover residents in a break-in were to happen. Please check with your renters insurance company for exact details.
Resident Benefits Package
Smart offerings rooted in 20 years of experience keeping residents happy
Did You Know? HVAC issues are the most common maintenance reports we get, and they can quickly become a recurring headache for residents. Not only do these problems inconvenience residents, but they are also a leading frustration for owners given the high costs and frequency of HVAC work orders that occur naturally. They complicate renewal offers and move-outs if any HVAC issues crop up at that crucial time.
More Than Just Air Filter Shipping
That’s why our proactive approach to HVAC maintenance is a real win-win-win.
We don’t just send a list to a shipping company and call it a day—we hand deliver these reminders. This personal touch supports the extra field work we put in that other companies don’t. It also gives owners peace of mind knowing we’re frequently seeing their home. When owners know we’re going by, even just to drop filters by the door, they’re less inclined to push for more in-depth interior inspections because they know we’re on top of things, and they know the filters are most likely getting replaced regularly.
In short, our HVAC maintenance program is a practical solution that benefits residents, our team, and owners alike. We’re reducing the risk of recurring issues, helping to maintain smooth lease renewals, and protecting the value of the properties. It’s a straightforward strategy that keeps everyone happy and ensures our homes stay in tip-top shape.
We’re excited to offer a couple additional valuable perks for our residents:
Payment Credit Reporting:
We report your rent payment history to a major credit bureau, which helps build your credit profile—a major benefit if you’re looking to secure loans down the road, especially if you’re looking to buy a home.
Move-In Convenience Kit
We’ve got another little perk that makes moving in a breeze. Every new resident gets a move-in convenience kit loaded with handy items like Hercules Hooks—designed to make hanging stuff easy and reduce the risk of damage. It also includes bumper pads, cable ties, and other essentials most residents buy at move-in for steep prices.
This gift bag is our way of saying “welcome home” and ensuring you’re set up for success from day one. It helps you avoid those extra trips to the store for small items that really add up, saving you both time and money. Plus, it’s just a thoughtful way to kickstart your move-in experience on a positive note.
These benefits not only protect your financial future but also help keep your home in great shape, ensuring a smoother, worry-free living experience.
1 Free Annual Exterior Pest Spray or Simple Service Request:
Once a year, you get a free exterior pest spray (or another simple service request). We can’t guarantee every outcome, but with 20 years of proven methods, we can usually tell by email or phone if we can tackle the issue effectively. It’s also a useful way to check on potential problems without incurring unavoidable trip charges from outside contractors.
1 Free Annual Delivery of 2 Commercial Space Heaters if Heat is Out
It’s rare that the heat would be completely out for more than a day without your approval but sometimes our space heaters would be sufficient to avoid having to find temporary housing and file a renters insurance claim. Other common situations would be limited heat when one of several units fail. Delivery within 24 business hours (usually less) of request for up to 5 days.
Thank you for partnering with MoveZen
To ensure you are well-prepared and organized for the next phases of the rental process, it’s essential to understand what lies ahead. From comprehending the lease agreement to settling comfortably into your new abode, this comprehensive article outlines the key aspects to anticipate after your rental application has received the green light.
Lease Review and Signing
What kind of lease do you use?
Standard Lease written by the North Carolina Bar Association to protect both tenants and landowners. We also include in our leases – proprietary provisions such as no smoking, and homes can’t be listed for sale.
Security Deposit and Rent Payment
Pay first month’s rent/ Hold payment – Must be paid within 24 hours of application acceptance to secure property
Move In Inspection
Before moving your belongings into the rental unit, it’s advisable to conduct a thorough move-in inspection. Document the existing condition of the property, including any pre-existing damage, and take photos as evidence. This will protect you from being held responsible for damage that was there before you moved in. Submit a list of upgrades and repair requests and keep a copy.
Utilities and Services Setup
Arrange for the transfer of utilities, such as electricity, water, gas, and internet, to your name. Notify the respective service providers about your move-in date and set up appointments if necessary. Make sure all services are functional before your official move-in day to ensure a smooth transition.
Walkthrough with the Landlord
On your move-in day, it’s common to schedule a walkthrough with the landlord or property manager. This is an opportunity to address any questions you might have about the property and its features. During the walkthrough, take note of key information such as emergency contacts, garbage disposal procedures, and any specific rules or regulations for the property.
Tenant’s Insurance
While the landlord’s insurance covers the building’s structure, it’s a good idea to consider getting renters’ insurance to protect your personal belongings and liability. Research and select an insurance policy that aligns with your needs and budget.
Settling In
After you’ve completed the necessary paperwork and moved in, take some time to settle into your new space. Familiarize yourself with the property’s amenities and nearby services. Introduce yourself to neighbors and begin establishing a positive relationship within the community.
Ongoing Communication
If you encounter any maintenance issues, repairs, or concerns, report them promptly. Addressing issues early can prevent them from becoming more significant problems down the line.
When you move out, the deposit must be refunded to you after 30 days, if you have kept up with your share of the agreement.
In situations with significant or costly repairs there could be a notice by 30 days, that we will need an additional 30 days. Funds can never be held more than 60 days and those are in obviously bad situations most of the time. If your landlord keeps any of the money, they must provide an explanation of why they kept the money.
The landlord can only keep the deposit money for: any rent that is owed, damage to the property (more than normal wear and tear), costs of finding a new tenant if you leave before your lease ends, and any court costs if you were evicted.
It should be completed within 7 days of moving in to document pre-existing damage at the property to avoid being charged for pre-existing damage at move out.
That information must be included as part of your application acceptance process. If for example you require the owner to paint the entire home, the rent would be a hundred or more dollars higher per month so that demand would be a crucial condition to decide on before lease signing.
Most importantly, if it was not agreed upon in writing before you sign the lease, it may not get done unless required by law.
Why? Not because our company doesn’t want to, but because it’s 100% the owners decision and once they have you locked into a lease, their motivation to invest in the home instantly plummets.
If you’re up front with us at the early stages, we can start this process with the lease negotiation, when the owner is highly motivated to get someone in long term. That’s the proper time to nail down those issues. After that, they probably will not be resolved to your satisfaction.
Those issues are covered well at the top of this page. Application fees are non-refundable for any reason (unless we don’t process it for any reason) so be sure that you get as much information as possible in advance of paying.
Unless your lease states this then no. It’s very very rare. HOA dues are the homeowners responsibility to pay.
Residents, have you found the perfect apartment? Do you need to move like yesterday and this is the place? Here are some tips on what you can do to win over the heart of the landlord or their property management agent. This is what you can do to get your rental application approved.
https://movezen360.com/3-tips-get-rental-application-approved/
We are (MoveZen), we’ve rebranded to represent a much more dynamic and customer focused company
Rules to Know Before Applying
