Your first apartment
checklist.

Before you tour

Set your all-in budget first (rent plus parking, pet rent, fees and utilities), then make a short, consistent list of must-haves — commute, bedrooms, pet policy, in-unit laundry. Bringing the same questions to every tour keeps communities easy to compare.

Documents you'll likely need

Most applications ask for a photo ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or an offer letter), and sometimes bank statements or a guarantor if you're new to renting. Having these ready speeds up approval and helps you move on a home before someone else does.

Run a smart tour

Tour the exact unit type you'd lease. Check natural light, cell signal, water pressure and noise, and walk the parking, mail, gym and trash areas at the time of day you'd really use them. Photos and notes keep everything straight when you're seeing several places.

Before you sign

Confirm the lease term and renewal policy, what's included versus billed back, guest and subletting rules, and the move-out and deposit-return process. If you have pets, confirm breed/weight limits and pet rent. Get any move-in special in writing.

Set up for move-in day

Document the unit's condition with photos at move-in, set up utilities and renters insurance before your start date, and confirm key/fob pickup and any elevator or loading-dock reservations. A little planning here protects your deposit and makes day one painless.

Make your rent work for you

Once you're in, see whether your community rewards you for paying rent. Luxia communities participate in Bilt Rewards, so your very first rent payment can start earning points — details on the Bilt Rewards page.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to apply for my first apartment?

Usually a photo ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or an offer letter), and sometimes bank statements or a guarantor if you have limited rental history. Having these ready speeds up approval.

What should I check on an apartment tour?

Tour the exact unit type you'd lease and check natural light, cell signal, water pressure and noise, plus the condition of parking, mail, gym and trash areas at the time of day you'd actually use them.

What should I do on move-in day?

Photograph the unit's condition, set up utilities and renters insurance before your start date, and confirm key/fob pickup and any elevator or loading-dock reservations.

How can my rent earn rewards?

At communities that participate in Bilt Rewards, like Luxia, paying rent through your resident portal earns points you can redeem for travel, future rent and more.