Credit Card Payments for Rent Growth Rate Estimates

• Steady Year-over-Year Increases
  Various property management software companies and real estate analysts have reported an increase in digital rent payments (including credit card usage) in the range of 10% to 20% year-over-year over the past several years. This figure largely reflects a migration away from paper checks and cash toward online platforms, spurred by convenience and flexible payment schedules.
  
• Acceleration During the Pandemic
  Between 2020 and 2021, online rent payments, including credit card transactions, experienced significantly higher adoption rates due to social distancing measures. Some platforms recorded adoption growth as high as 30% during this period.
  
• Long-Term Trend
  Current projections suggest that the number of renters paying by credit card or digital methods could rise by 5-10 percentage points within the next two to three years, aligning with the overall consumer shift toward digital financial solutions.

Sources: Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia Consumer Finance Institute

Should You Pay Rent with a Credit Card?

Paying rent with a credit card is an appealing option for many tenants, especially as credit cards become standard for everyday expenses. This trend is gaining momentum among tenants who value convenience, potential rewards, and the option of a temporary financial buffer for monthly obligations.

Many landlords are flexible with the payment methods they accept for rent, recognizing that accommodating tenant preferences can foster higher satisfaction with their tenants and reduce turnover.

For many renters, the prospect of earning airline miles or cash-back points on what is typically their largest monthly expense is compelling. Others appreciate the assurance that a delayed paycheck will not automatically result in missed payments. At the same time, concerns arise regarding additional fees, the risk of accumulating debt, and whether approaching rent as a credit card purchase is advisable in the long run.

Trending Payments by Credit Card

Rent Payment Trends

Rent payments made via credit card have become increasingly common, reflecting broader shifts in consumer habits. While many property managers once found credit card usage to be a niche preference, recent data shows steady growth in adoption rates across various rental markets. This indicates a gradual move away from traditional payment methods, like paper checks and money orders, toward more streamlined, digital solutions.

Several factors contribute to this upward trajectory. First, online payment portals have simplified the transaction process, allowing tenants to manage rent from their smartphones or computers. Second, many renters view credit cards as a convenient financial tool, especially for large, recurring bills. Finally, ongoing changes in consumer behavior, such as favoring speed and ease of use, reinforce the popularity of credit cards for monthly rent.

Demographics

Demographics also play a critical role in shaping payment preferences. Younger renters, particularly those who grew up in the digital age, are often drawn to the convenience of credit cards and online transactions.

They may also appreciate the added benefits, such as earning rewards or building credit history. Meanwhile, older renters, who might be more accustomed to checks or bank transfers, are increasingly adopting digital solutions, although they may still weigh factors like processing fees and security concerns before making the switch.

Reasons for Choosing Credit Card Payments Over Other Methods

1. Convenience and Speed
   Credit card rent payments eliminate the need for paper checks, postage, or in-person drop-offs. Many platforms support autopay, ensuring tenants never miss a due date.
   
2. Potential Rewards
   Cash back, travel miles, or loyalty points can be compelling incentives for tenants who already rely on credit cards for everyday spending. These perks effectively reduce the cost of rent, especially if balances are paid off monthly.
   
3. Financial Flexibility
   Using a credit card can provide a short-term cushion for tenants facing income variability. If timed properly, it can help bridge the gap until their next paycheck.
   
4. Digital Record-Keeping
   Credit card statements provide a clear, consolidated record of rent payments, which can be beneficial for personal budgeting and end-of-year tax documentation (if applicable).

Should Tenants Pay Rent with a Credit Card?

Evaluating Personal Financial Situations

• Understand Your Monthly Budget
  • If you track expenses and pay off your statement balance before interest accrues, credit-based rent payments can be advantageous.
  • If you struggle to clear your balance each month, adding rent could exacerbate financial strain.
• Assess Income Stability
  • Individuals with irregular paychecks might value the flexibility of a credit card, as it can bridge temporary cash flow gaps.
  • For those with consistent pay, be cautious of interest charges if you do not pay off the full statement balance.
• Consider Credit Score Implications
  • Paying rent with a credit card can contribute positively to your credit history if payments are made on time.
  • High balances increase your credit utilization ratio, potentially harming your score if not managed carefully.
• Long-Term Goals
  • Using a credit card strategically could align with goals like building credit or earning rewards.
  • On the other hand, unforeseen expenses can lead to rising interest costs if rent charges carry over multiple billing cycles.

Weighing the Convenience vs. Potential Costs

• Convenience Factors
  • Automated payments can eliminate missed due dates and the need for paper checks or in-person drop-offs.
  • Some cards offer rewarding benefits such as cash back or travel miles, which may partially offset rent expenses.
• Transaction Fees
  • Many payment portals pass processing fees to tenants, reducing the net benefit of any rewards earned.
  • Compare these fees against the value of potential perks or the cost of alternative payment methods.
• Risk of High-Interest Debt
  • Carrying a large rent balance can accumulate significant interest charges, especially if other expenses also land on the card.
  • If you anticipate difficulty paying off your monthly statements, consider a less costly payment method.
• Striking a Balance
  • Weigh the pros (convenience and possible rewards) against the cons (fees and interest charges) in the context of your personal finances.
  • Ultimately, whether credit card rent payments are right for you depends on your ability to manage the associated costs responsibly.

Pros of Paying Rent with a Credit Card

Potential for Credit Card Rewards

Choosing to pay rent with a credit card can open the door to attractive reward programs. Some cards offer cash back, others grant travel points or airline miles, and a select few even provide exclusive perks like lounge access or concierge services. By funneling a major expense, like paying monthly rent through a rewards card, tenants may effectively lower their overall cost of living, provided they pay off the balance in full. However, it’s crucial to verify that the potential rewards outweigh any processing fees.

Building Credit History

For renters who consistently make on-time payments, using a credit card can strengthen their credit profile over the long run. Timely rent transactions add another layer of positive payment history, illustrating financial responsibility to lenders and credit bureaus. As credit scores improve, individuals may qualify for favorable loan terms, better interest rates on mortgages, or even premium credit cards with more generous perks. The key lies in maintaining disciplined spending habits and ensuring each monthly statement is managed responsibly.

Easier Tracking of Expenses

Paying rent through a credit card creates a clear paper trail, simplifying budgets and financial record keeping. Credit card statements can be accessed online at any time, often organized by category. This can be extremely useful for tenants who are trying to keep a closer watch on where their money goes each month, especially when juggling multiple financial obligations. Having all expenses in one place can help simplify a tenant’s tax preparation, particularly if any portion of the rent is deducted for work-from-home or business-related use.

Cons of Paying Rent with a Credit Card

Transaction or Processing Fees

Paying rent with a credit card often comes with additional transaction or processing fees. These charges can be a percentage of the total rent, sometimes ranging from 2% to 3% or more, which quickly adds up when monthly rent runs into the thousands. Even the most appealing cash back or airline mile programs may not fully offset these extra costs, especially if your rent is already a significant portion of your budget.

For tenants who are focused on maximizing rewards, the key question becomes whether the perks gained are worth the fees incurred. In certain scenarios, card benefits, like a generous signup bonus, might justify the added expense. However, if the monthly processing fee outstrips potential rewards, you may find yourself paying more than you had anticipated.

Risk of Accumulating Debt and Interest

One of the most pressing concerns with credit card rent payments is the risk of falling into debt. Because rent is typically a tenant’s largest expense each month, placing it on a credit card can lead to high balances that become difficult to pay off. Carrying forward these balances incurs interest but can also inflate your credit utilization ratio, potentially harming your credit score over time.

Even disciplined spenders can encounter unexpected financial hurdles such as medical bills, car repairs, or job changes that make it challenging to clear a large credit card balance before interest accrues. Once revolving debt kicks in, the original convenience of credit-based rent payments may feel overshadowed by interest charges. Having a realistic plan to pay the balance in full is crucial for keeping these risks under control.

Landlord/Property Management Restrictions

Although credit card payments are becoming more common, not all landlords or property management companies welcome this option. Some businesses choose to avoid the administrative headaches or fees associated with processing credit card transactions. Others may allow it but impose strict policies or surcharges to cover additional costs they incur.

This inconsistency can create confusion for tenants who prefer a uniform payment experience. Before signing a lease or committing to credit card payments, it’s important to clarify whether they’re accepted and understand any limitations or extra fees involved.

Will You Earn Points for Paying Rent with a Credit Card?

Reward Programs and Eligibility

One of the most alluring aspects of paying rent with a credit card is the prospect of earning points or cash back on an otherwise routine expense.

Whether you’re aiming to rack up airline miles, hotel rewards, or a simple cashback bonus, these programs can appear to offer an attractive incentive. However, not all reward programs view rent payments equally. Some issuers will credit points for a rent transaction just like any other purchase, while others may exclude rent altogether or classify it in a non-reward category.

• Check Your Card Terms
  • Before adding your landlord or property management company as a payee, review your card’s rewards structure. You’ll want to confirm whether rent qualifies as an eligible purchase, and if so, at what rate (e.g., 1 point per dollar, 2 points, etc.).
    
• Third-Party Platforms
  • Certain platforms designed for rent payments specifically partner with credit card issuers to ensure smooth processing. These services might have unique agreements or promotional offers that let you earn points more seamlessly.
    
• Promotional Bonuses
  • From time to time, credit card companies may run promotions that offer elevated rewards on specific categories. While rent seldom appears as a standalone category, you never know when a limited-time bonus might pop up.

Bonus Category Considerations

Not all spending categories are created equal in the eyes of credit card issuers, and that rings especially true for rent payments. Most credit cards have clearly defined bonus categories such as dining, grocery, gas, and travel. Rent, however, generally falls under a broad category of “miscellaneous” or “personal services,” which rarely earns bonus rates.

Other Factors to Consider

Credit Utilization

Credit utilization, the percentage of your available credit that you’re currently using, plays an essential role in determining your credit score. When you charge a large recurring expense like rent to a credit card, it can quickly drive up your utilization ratio, especially if you keep your credit limit relatively low or you’re juggling multiple bills on the same card.

• Short-Term vs. Long-Term Effects
  • A one-time spike in utilization might be manageable if you pay it down immediately, but consistently high balances can erode your credit health over time.
• Credit Limit Adjustments
  • Some card issuers allow periodic limit increases; requesting one may help keep your utilization ratio in check, even if you regularly pay rent on your card.
• Monitoring is Key
  • Regularly tracking your balance ensures you’re aware of how close you are to your limit and whether it’s time to explore alternative payment methods to avoid a ding in your score.

Payment Platforms and Security

As credit card rent payments gain popularity, countless online platforms have emerged to facilitate the process. While these digital solutions can offer valuable convenience, it’s important to understand their security measures and fee structures:

• Encryption and Data Protection
  • Look for platforms that use robust encryption methods (like SSL or TLS) to safeguard your personal and financial information. Reputable providers often display security certifications, which can be a helpful indicator of their commitment to data protection.
• Fraud Prevention
  • A reliable payment platform should have additional layers of fraud detection and identity verification. Multi-factor authentication, transaction monitoring, and proactive alerts can all help protect your account from unauthorized activity.
• Platform Fees
  • Some platforms will absorb part of the transaction fee or split it with the tenant, while others may pass on the full cost. Understanding how fees are assessed and whether your landlord passes them directly to you can influence whether paying rent by credit card remains cost effective.

Alternatives to Credit Card Payments

Before you commit to monthly credit card rent payments, it’s worth examining other methods that might align better with your financial goals and monthly budget:

1. ACH or Direct Debit
   • Automatic bank transfers often come with minimal or no fees, making them a solid choice for those who want a “set it and forget it” approach without the added cost of credit card processing.
2. Checks
   • Though less convenient, paper checks remain a traditional fallback. They can be especially useful if your landlord or management company charges high credit card fees or if you’re striving to keep your utilization ratio low.
3. Money Orders or Cashier’s Checks
   • For tenants who may not have checking accounts or prefer guaranteed funds, these options provide a secure means of payment. However, they do require additional effort to purchase and present in person or via mail.
4. Rent Payment Apps (Non-Credit Card)
   • Several mobile apps allow direct transfers from your bank account at minimal cost. While they may not offer rewards, they can save you money on transaction fees and still deliver digital convenience.

Paying rent with a credit card is an option that resonates differently with each tenant. Some may find it invaluable for managing fluctuating income or building their credit history; others may regard it as an unnecessary expense once fees and potential interest charges come into play.

In the end, whether you decide to pay rent with a credit card depends on a careful balance of convenience, cost, and long-term financial strategy. By staying informed and evaluating your personal situation, you can determine the payment method that best serves your goals, both now and in the future.

For prospective tenants, the current hyper-competitive rental market can make finding a place to call home feel near impossible. With low vacancy rates and skyrocketing rents, the pressure is on to secure a place fast. These conditions evoke desperation, cloud judgments, and make even the most cautious renters more open to taking risks. When emotions run high, logic often takes a backseat.

Scammers know this all too well. They prey on the emotional rollercoaster of the housing search. A recent Dwellsy survey found that 60 percent of renters have encountered fraudulent or suspicious activity online, with 44 percent experiencing or knowing someone who’s lost money to rental scams. The losses are significant. 85 percent of victims lost over $400, and 19 percent lost upwards of $5,000. The total potential losses are estimated at a staggering $16.1 billion annually.

As the founder and CEO of Ziprent, I’ve witnessed the financial and emotional toll these scams inflict on unsuspecting renters. My team and I have had to console heartbroken renters who thought they’d found their perfect home, only to discover it was a cruel fabrication. We’ve seen the stress and financial ruin scammers cause, and it’s simply unacceptable, not to mention preventable.

While unsuspecting renters lose their hard-earned savings to fake listings and unscrupulous “landlords” and, in extreme cases, face homelessness, online marketplaces and social media platforms continue to profit. The problem is exacerbated by major listing platforms’ lack of accountability, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace being the worst offenders. Due to their sheer size and lax verification processes, they’ve become hotbeds for fraudulent activity.

Anyone can post a listing, real or fake, with little to no oversight. It leaves renters vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated schemes involving stolen photos, misleading descriptions, and demands for upfront “rental payments” and “safety deposits.”

Yes, there are efforts made to remove fake listings. However, the sheer volume of posts and lack of identity verification make it difficult to curb the problem effectively. By the time a fraudulent listing is identified and removed, countless unsuspecting users may have already fallen victim, losing money and facing the stress of finding legitimate housing during a period of significant financial loss.

At Ziprent, we’re committed to fighting back. Our platform leverages cutting-edge AI technology to analyze listings for red flags, helping us identify and remove potential scams before they harm our users. We also use smart lockboxes for secure showings and monitor access to deter unauthorized entry.

Ziprent cannot combat this issue alone, though. It’s time for the entire industry to unite and make renter safety a top priority. We need stronger regulations that hold listing platforms accountable for verifying properties and removing fraudulent content. And most importantly, we need collaboration between property management companies, law enforcement, and technology providers.

However, change takes time. Until then, renters can take proactive steps to protect themselves:

• Never send money or personal information until you’ve seen the property in person and confirmed the landlord’s identity. If you’re dealing with a property management company, verify their legitimacy through online reviews and their official website.
• Look for red flags like prices that seem too good to be true, vague descriptions, or grammatical errors. If the listing is on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, be extra cautious, as these platforms lack identity verification processes.
• Google the property address and landlord’s name. Check for inconsistencies in the listing and look for reviews of the landlord or property management company. And use Google’s image search functions to check that the property images aren’t copies of a legitimate listing.
• Avoid paying with cash, wire transfers, or gift cards. These methods of payment are commonly used by scammers. Instead, opt for traceable methods like checks or credit cards, and always get a receipt.
• Don’t be afraid to walk away from a suspicious listing, even if it seems perfect. Continuing the hunt for a new home is a far better option than losing hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Ziprent is committed to leading the charge. Our track record of 150,000 incident-free showings proves we take renter safety seriously. I call on other industry leaders to join us in this fight. Together, we can make the dream of finding a safe and affordable home a reality for all.

We get it—finding a rental is brutal right now. Scammers exploit the stress, preying on unsuspecting victims and counting on tight deadlines and housing desperation to cloud decision-making.

Enough is enough. It’s time to arm you with the knowledge to empower you to spot the red flags, protect yourself, and safely find a place to call home.

How do Rental Scams Work?

Rental scams prey on renters who need to act quickly. Scammers create fake listings for desirable properties with one goal: getting your money or identity before you realize the truth.

Here are the most common types of scams targeted at the rental market:

• Phantom rentals are entirely fabricated listings showcasing dream apartments or houses that aren’t for rent or don’t exist at all—a tactic that will scale as AI image and video generators become more sophisticated.
• Virtual rental tour scams exploit pre-recorded videos or stolen footage. Scammers create the illusion of legitimacy and convince you to move forward before seeing the place in person.
• Ad hijacking involves copying and modifying legitimate rental ads, replacing the landlord’s contact information with their own.
• Identity theft occurs when scammers use fabricated or legitimate rental applications to collect sensitive information such as your Social Security number, birth date, and bank details.
• Self-guided/self-showing scams involve scammers posing as prospective renters, obtaining lockbox or electronic keypad codes, and using these to convince renters that they’re dealing with the real landlord.

Rental Fraud Red Flags

Think you can spot a fake listing? Scammers count on you to overlook the warning signs. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Prices that are Too Good to Be True

Found your dream rental at half the market rate? Before you celebrate, ask yourself why. Do your due diligence—a quick Google search on the “average rental price in (location)” will soon reveal if the asking price is too good to be true.

2. Typos, Poor Grammar, and Excessive Punctuation

Typos, grammar mistakes, and poor punctuation aren’t always signs of a scam, but they are a sign the person is either:

1. hurriedly pushing out fresh listings to stay ahead of automated flagging systems used on platforms like Craigslist and/or
2. someone unintentionally creating listings that are poorly written (this might be due to language barriers, indicating the listing has been created from an overseas location.)

3. MLS Watermarks

The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a database that realtors use to list properties and photos, and it often has watermarks for copyright protection. Without permission, scammers use photos from the MLS, watermarks and all, to make their fake rentals look more believable. They’re banking on you not knowing the MLS, and assuming those marks are a sign it’s legitimate.

If you see an MLS watermark on a rental listing that isn’t on a realtor’s site, it’s almost certainly a scam.

4. No Tenant Screening Processes

Any landlord claiming they don’t need applications or credit checks is either shockingly naive or up to no good. Tenant screening protects both parties. No process means they’re likely hiding something.

5. Requests for Personal Information or Money Before Viewings

Your Social Security number to “start the application’? Rent deposit to “hold your spot”? Don’t fall for their urgency tactics. Scammers want your cash or sensitive information before you realize it’s fake. They might even pressure you into acting fast to avoid “losing” your new home.

Sure, legitimate landlords and rental companies DO require personal information for background and credit checks, BUT only after you’ve viewed the property, spoken directly with the landlord or property manager, and formally applied.

6. Untraceable Payment Methods

Cryptocurrency, wire transfers, gift cards… Oh lordy, no! Legitimate landlords use traceable methods like bank transfers or rental-specific payment platforms. Scammers demand ways to get your money with no paper trail, using platforms like Zelle, Venmo and Cash App.

7. Unverifiable Property Rental Statuses

Does the rental even exist? Any real rental will have a footprint. Scammers list fake addresses, nonexistent units, or properties they have zero rights to. Here’s how to find the truth:

• Most rentals operate through a management company. No website, office, or contact person is a huge red flag.
• Counties often list property ownership online. If the “landlord’s” name isn’t on the deed, run!
• Be wary of listings with no online presence at all. Even recent listings should have some trace.

8. Unconventional Requests

After a self-tour, have you been asked to leave the keys under the doormat? Is the “landlord” telling you some story about how the keys are lost and the only way in right now is through the front window? Legitimate landlords follow safety procedures and have access to their own properties. Any request that makes you go, “Wait, that’s weird…” should be a major red flag.

Platform-Specific Dangers

Unfortunately, rental scams on all sorts of platforms are rife. But the two most commonly used are Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Why? Because neither platform requires a user to verify their identity, making posting fraudulent listings risk-free for scammers.

So you won’t be a victim of the next scam on Craigslist or Facebook, here are some telltale signs to look out for.

Craigslist Rental Scams

In the image below, you can see that the image we searched for using Google Lens returned an exact match result. This is one of a few giveaways that this was a potential scam.

Here are seven red flags we found in this listing:

1. 🚩 The scam was posted after the original listing, indicating that this wasn’t an unintentional duplicate listing by either Craigslist or the user. You’ll notice the scam listing was posted 8 hours ago, while the legitimate listing was posted a day ago.
2. 🚩An apartment in Napa County for $999? We don’t think so. A quick Google search reveals that the average apartment in Napa goes for between $2,500-3,000. Even at 465ft^2^, a thousand bucks is well below the average price range.
3. 🚩The listing included no address, no Google Map link, and the property is seemingly located in the middle of nowhere.
4. 🚩Only three photos? That isn’t a great sign, either.
5. 🚩 The property description also contains typos, grammar mistakes, and bad punctuation.
6. 🚩 And lastly, the worst offending giveaway on this listing is the request for a “one-month security deposit of $1,000.” That’s a huge red flag!

And the legitimate listing, how can we tell this is the real deal?

1. ✅ The price lands almost smack-bang in the middle of our Napa County average rental price. The listing’s title is also more descriptive than the scam listing.
2. ✅ The address is mentioned. Nothing to hide here.
3. ✅ There is a Google Maps link. Whenever you’re considering a rental from Craigslist, it’s always a good idea to browse the Street View images and try to match them with one of the listing’s images.
4. ✅ There is a date for when this property is available to move into.
5. ✅ Lots of property photos are always a good sign.
6. ✅ The description is well-written and free of mistakes.
7. ✅ Lastly, there are detailed specifics surrounding utility bills, garbage collection, and even additional rent to be paid for roommates.

Facebook Marketplace Rental Scams

It didn’t take long to find a second example of a rental scam, this time on Facebook Marketplace. Another Google Lens search turned up several exact-match images.

Here are the red flags spotted on this Facebook listing:

1. 🚩 The price is tantalizing good. Too good. The average rental price is $2,300 in Woodland, CA. $918 is far below that.
2. 🚩 The listing was posted 4 hours ago. You’ll notice the legitimate listing was created 67 days ago.
3. 🚩 Trulia and other listing sites mention the unit has two bedrooms and one to two bathrooms.
4. 🚩 The description is super short.

Below the fold is mentioned the user’s profile. Naturally, we took a look. The profile is plagued with random TikTok videos, AI images are used, and the user has only a handful of friends. Worse, they had posted a second property on Marketplace, which was also a fraudulent listing copied from a legitimate listing.

And to the legitimate listing:

1. ✅ Price is in the right range.
2. ✅ The number of beds and baths matches the photos.
3. ✅ The landlord’s number is listed (we blurred it, of course).
4. ✅ The description is comprehensive and well-written.
5. ✅ 67 days ago. That’s when the property was listed.
6. ✅ We cut it short so the image wouldn’t take up your entire screen, but you can see a sample of the level of detail that’s included in this listing (there’s more further down).

Ziprent’s Safeguards

The last thing we want is for you to be the next victim of the scammer tactics we’ve described above. For this reason, Ziprent has dedicated systems to protect both renters and landlords. Here’s how we go above and beyond to ensure your safety:

1. Only prospective tenants whose information is verified through multiple sources with identity verification get unique access codes for specific time slots, preventing unauthorized showings many scammers rely on.
2. If keys go missing or other irregularities occur, we act immediately. Our response includes on-site inspections, rekeying, and collaboration with law enforcement.
3. We collect data at every step, allowing us to quickly spot unusual activity, even if it mimics legitimate renter behavior.
4. Our platform analyzes listings, renter behavior, and external data to flag suspicious activity in real-time. With this process in place, we catch scams that renters might miss.
5. We act fast when things go wrong. Our dedicated team is committed to restoring access to legitimate renters and minimizing the impact on those targeted by scams.
6. We believe knowledge is power. This guide is an example of the lengths Ziprent goes to to combat scams.

Our track record of over 150,000 incident-free self-guided tours proves our commitment to your safety while still offering the convenience you need.

Conclusion

We fight hard to protect you, but with rental scams such as the ones we’ve detailed above, it’s important that you remain alert to the signs of a fraudulent listing. Prevention is key, so remember that using verified platforms like Ziprent and others like Zillow drastically reduces your risk.

And keep in mind, always be suspicious of Ziprent listings found on sites like Craigslist and Facebook. Ziprent does not, and will not in the future, ever publish our listings on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.

We actively discourage landlords from advertising on platforms that lack a verification process, so there’s a high likelihood they’re scams. By staying informed, reporting scams, and choosing platforms committed to renter protection, together, we can make the housing search safer for everyone.

Nobody enjoys moving. Even if you’re excited about the new home you’re moving into, it can do nothing to overcome the dread of packing everything you own into boxes and moving everything from your home to a truck and into your new home. It’s so miserable that people will stay in the same place even if they are unhappy with it to avoid the process of moving. While nothing can eliminate the misery, there are steps that can be taken in order to make your move easier. Here are a seven tips for moving: 

Did you prorate rent?

If you’re moving in or moving out of a prorated rent. It’ll save you some money so you can pay for those extra odds and ends like tipping your movers or replacing old furniture easier to do.

Does it spark joy?

There’s no better time to get rid of what you don’t need than when you’re moving. It’ll lighten your load and shorten the entire process. Let’s be honest, most of what you have stuffed away and even some of what you have out in the open are things you don’t need and almost never use. Take this opportunity to toss it all in the dumpster or even donate what you can to a local homeless shelter. 

Don’t procrastinate 

This is the most obvious advice to give and the most difficult one to follow. You already dread moving so naturally you’ll put off packing until the very last minute. Unfortunately, if you wait until the last minute this could make your life even more difficult. You won’t be as organized and you may run out of boxes without enough time to get more. 

Plan ahead

Don’t wait until the last minute to book movers or reserve a truck. You don’t want to have everything boxed up with no way to move it. You also may end up paying a higher price if you wait to book movers or reserve a truck. Once you have your moving date, book everything you need. You’ll also want to schedule all of your utilities to be turned on and transferred into your name prior to moving in. 

Boxes and boxes

Get your boxes well ahead of time and make sure you have plenty of extra boxes just in case. You never know what will happen and you may accidentally ruin some boxes rendering them useless. If you need extra boxes in a pinch, try going to the closest grocery store and asking them if you can purchase some of their banana boxes. They are a perfect size and incredibly sturdy. Also, make sure you have plenty of packing tape along with newspaper and garbage bags. 

Pack with strategy

You don’t want to put your heavy items in the big boxes because they will become too heavy and difficult to carry due to their awkward size and weight. Keep the heavy items in a smaller box and make sure you pack the heavier items and keep the lighter items on the top. Try not to leave any empty spaces in the boxes. This will ensure you use as few boxes as possible and the items don’t rattle and shift during your move. 

Kitchen essentials

When it comes to your food, you can toss most of it. Definitely toss all of your perishables and if you have any snacks and dry goods you can take those with you. You’ll need something to snack on when your kitchen isn’t all set up at the new place. 

When it comes to boxing up fragile items from the kitchen like your dishes, make sure you wrap each dish up individually with packing paper. Bunch them together in bundles of 5 or put them on their side. Never lay them flat. After that, stuff any empty spaces in the box with packing paper to give it cushion and make sure they don’t shift in the box. 

Label maker

This may sound unnecessary and something only somebody with a type-A personality would do, but make sure you label all of your boxes. This will save you time when it comes to unpacking allowing you to quickly place things in their proper room before rummaging through them. It’ll also help you identify which boxes are filled with fragile or heavy items so you know how to handle them.

Every home requires different procedures when it comes to cleaning. This is because every home uses different building materials. These building materials will dictate how you clean as well as what cleaning supplies you use. For renters, this means every new home you move into requires you to consider how you will clean your home and what you will clean with. For example, laminate and wood floors may look the same, but they require different cleaning supplies. If you have any questions about the materials in your rental unit, you can contact your property manager or landlord. Here are some tips for cleaning wood floors. 

Regular cleaning

• There are two options when it comes to regular cleaning of your wood floors. One is to use a broom or a microfiber dust mop on a regular basis. The dust mop is probably the best option as the broom may leave bristles on the floor that could scratch the floor down the road. 
• You can also use a vacuum cleaner. When using the vacuum, turn off the brush roll if that’s an option since the bristles may scratch the hardwood floors. Some vacuum cleaners come with rubber bristles on the brush roll that likely won’t cause any damage to the floors. It’s important to vacuum and/or dust mop on a regular basis to keep a nice shine on your floors and to help prevent any damage from dust and dirt. 

Mopping tips

• While it may not be as important to mop every corner of your home, you do want to mop the heavy traffic areas on a weekly basis. If you’re using a mop, be sure to wring out as much of the water as possible so that it’s damp and not leaving large droplets of water on the floor. Rinse only when necessary. 
• Avoid leaving any standing water on the wood floors. Water left on the floor for too long can create water spots and long-term damage. To make cleaning easier, you can use special spray mops like swiffers that have cleaning solutions specifically made for wood floors. 
• There are steam mops that are designed specifically for wood floors, but it’s best to avoid any steam cleaners as they can dull the floors and do long-term damage. Avoid any homemade cleaning solutions that include any vinegar as they can damage the floors as well. Do not use any vinyl floor cleaner on the hardwood floors. 

Give it a shine 

• After you have removed all the dust and mopped the floors, you will want to finish with a cleaning solution that will give the floors a nice shine and help increase their longevity of the floors. You can use a liquid scratch concealer that will put a finish over scratches that won’t come off during cleaning. 
• You can also use a wood floor polish that can help to restore the shine as well as prevent any damage in the future. This can also help fill any small scratches on the floor. 
• Floor wax is another option. This will revitalize and give a deep cleaning to worn hardwood floors. 

Not many people are happy whenever cleaning day comes around. This is especially true when dealing with the bathroom. There are tight spaces, nooks and crannies, and a wide variety of different surface materials. This means you may need more than one cleaning solution to clean your bathroom or your shower. Keeping up with a regular cleaning schedule will make your regular cleanings quicker and easier. Here are a few cleaning and maintenance tips for your shower: 

Tip: If you’re leasing a home, ask the landlord what the surface materials are in your rental unit. 

Prep work

Before you do anything, remove everything from your shower. This includes all your soap, shampoo, conditioner, loofas, and anything else that isn’t permanently fixed to the wall. Be sure to remove any baskets since that is often where you’ll have the most build-up. Open all the doors, window and turn on your fan to make sure the bathroom is well ventilated 

Unclog the drain

There are plenty of products available that make this easy to do on your own. You can find them at your local hardware store or grocery store. If for some reason you can’t find anything nearby or you’re not in the mood to go to the store, you can straighten out a wire coathanger and that will do the trick. 

You can also use chemicals to unclog your drain, but before you do that you’ll need to make sure it is safe to use with your plumbing. There are also some less harsh chemicals you can use that won’t risk causing any damage to your plumbing. 

Rinse

Cover the tub and the walls with a cleaner from the store, or a homemade cleaning solution. Before using it, you’ll want to test it on a small portion of the shower to make sure it won’t do any damage to the surface. Let the cleaner sit on the walls and the tub for about 10-15 minutes to make sure it has a chance to break down all the soap scum and bacteria. If you don’t have any cleaner, you can make some with a simple solution of equal parts warm water and white vinegar. After about 10 minutes, rinse the cleaning solution with warm water. 

Don’t ignore the grout

Grout can take some time to become discolored and if you ignore it long enough, it makes it more difficult to clean down the road. Be sure to use a soft-bristle brush or a sponge on the grout with the cleaning solution, then rinse with warm water. 

Scrub the tub

Repeat this process for the bathtub or the shower floor. If you need a little extra cleaning power, add some baking soda to the bathtub and use a sponge to scrub. After that is all done, rinse all the cleaning solution with warm water. 

Don’t forget the shower door

The best way to keep a clean shower door is to use a squeegee after every shower. You can also use the same cleaning solution as the rest of the shower, depending on what you use, and you can then rinse it with water after you’re done. 

It’s difficult to find landlords who are willing to allow pets. When you do find one, you’ll want to stay in their good graces and maintain a high level of cleanliness. This is also a great way to protect your security deposit as landlords often charge extra for pets. Here are some tips for regular cleaning for those with pets: 

Use a handheld vacuum or lint roller

A lint roller is a must-have if you have pets. They’re quick and easy if you want to give a quick one-over to pick up any loose hairs from your pets (or even yourself). You can use lint rollers on almost any surface and they are the simplest way to handle any quick clean-ups. Using them regularly also has the added benefit of removing most of the hair that might do damage to your vacuum cleaner. 

You can also get a handheld vacuum cleaner that will be easier to maneuver than the big bulky ones. Using these daily can prevent any big hair build-ups. Another option is to get a rubber broom specifically designed to comb through carpets and pick up pet hair. If you have all three options, you’ll be ready for anything. 

Keep the first outside 

Unlike your houseguests, you can’t exactly ask your dogs or cats to wipe their feet off on the doormat before coming in. One option is to keep a bucket with some shallow water by the door along with a towel. This way you can soak and whip your dog’s paws every time you come home from a walk. And don’t forget to wipe your shoes off as well. 

Clean all toys and collars

Keeping your home clean isn’t just about removing all the hair and dirt. You still have to deal with all the odors as well. Collars and toys can store a lot of odor and are often overlooked when it comes to regular cleaning. The easiest way to keep them clean is to soak them for about 30 minutes in some warm water and dog shampoo. After their soak, rinse them in cold water and let them dry. 

You can also use a dishwasher if you have one. This is the most effective way to clean all of your pet’s toys and collars at the same time. This is the least labor-intensive and delivers the best results. Be sure to see what materials everything is made of before sticking it in the dishwasher. You wouldn’t want to disappoint your dog by ruining his favorite toy. 

Deodorize 

Deodorize regularly instead of waiting until something smells a little off or a houseguest mentions something. One way to quickly deodorize is to spray white vinegar over stains. Spray just enough to leave it a little wet, but don’t soak the area. 

There are also carpet deodorizers you can use regularly when you vacuum. This will help keep odors away in between your annual deep cleanings.

Finding a rental unit can be stressful. In a tight rental market, it can be increasingly discouraging when you keep getting turned down for rental units you’re more than qualified for. When demand is high and supply is low, you’ll need to do everything you can in order to set yourself apart from others who are competing for the same rentals as you. Here are some tips for getting approved for an apartment: 

Include a cover letter

A cover letter may seem to be a little over the top, but it’s that little extra effort that could set you apart in a competitive rental market. In many parts of the country, especially urban and metropolitan centers, landlords are seeing dozens of applications come in for every rental unit. It’s likely that many of those applicants will be equally if not more qualified than you are, so you’ll want to find a way to stand out. 

Include in your cover letter the reason why you want to move into the rental unit. Talk about the kind of tenant you will be. Go over your rental history as briefly as possible. Be sure to include information about your current employment situation and notify the landlord that you have references if it is necessary. This doesn’t need to be long. It only needs to be a few paragraphs but it can make a difference in a competitive market. 

Package all required documents

When it comes to finding a place to rent, timing can be one of the most important factors. If 15 qualified people apply for one unit, the landlord has no reason to wait for you to submit all of your documents before renting it out. Getting all your documents in at the same time can be the difference between getting an apartment or being passed over. 

It’s not just getting the documents in on time that matters, You should go over each document a few times to make sure there are zero errors. Just one or two errors on the paperwork mean a landlord could potentially pass you over and go with another qualified tenant with complete paperwork

Check credit score

Before applying for an apartment, you should run a credit check on yourself. You can do this through your bank or a number of websites that provide credit checks from all three of the major credit history organizations. If your credit history is a little low, this could put you at a disadvantage so you may want to hold off on applying until your credit score improves. Each credit check for an apartment can damage your credit history even more so you’ll want to make sure you can get approved first. 

Improve credit score

It can never hurt to have a high credit score. If you feel it is a little lower than you like, you can make an extra effort to increase your score. There are a number of ways to keep track of all your bills and make sure you have autopayment for those that can damage your credit score. You’ll also want to keep track of your checking account to make sure you don’t overdraft. With a little extra effort, you can improve your score enough to give you a leg up on the competition. 

Use  references

Asking for references can be a pain. Nobody wants to answer their phone and talk to strangers about you. It almost seems pointless because it’s obvious people only give their good references, but at the same time, really bad tenants may not have very many references who will vouch for them. Just having the references alone means you’ve built up enough goodwill with prior landlords, colleagues, and friends that some are willing to vouch for you. 

Pro-tip: In an extremely tight rental market, you may need to forgo touring a rental unit prior to moving in. You can get a leg up by applying immediately when a listing goes up. The risk is you may not like the home, but sometimes it is the only option available.