Searching to rent in Austin, Dallas, Ft Worth, Houston, San Antonio, or College Station Texas?

Do you feel overwhelmed and don't know where to start?

Finding your dream place can be daunting given how many wonderful properties there are in Texas, but it doesn't have to be!

Discover what makes your perfect place, and let this guide help you get preparing for the rental application process while making it as stress-free as possible!

Let's talk about the different areas

Austin Area

The city is famously quirky, embracing its unofficial slogan, "Keep Austin Weird," which highlights its support for local businesses, creative expression, and unique traditions. Austin is known as the "Live Music Capital of the World." It is the capital of Texas and the fourth-largest city in the state, blending a rich cultural history with a modern, innovative spirit.

The Austin market has seen a surge in rental property supply, leading to increased options for renters and some moderation in rent prices.  The median rent for all property types is around $1,502 per month. 

Home of events such as Austin City Limits Festival, South by Southwest, and Circuit of The Americas which draws an global visitors to the city. Major employers include Tesla, Samsung, Apple, Indeed, Amazon, Google, and Meta to name a few.

Bryan/College Station

Often referred to as "Aggieland" or "BCS", located in Brazos Valley. It is also home to Texas A&M University, one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the United States, located in College Station.  This twin-city area combines the charm of a small town with cultural and economic benefits of a larger city.

While the inventory of homes for sale has increased significantly (up 53%), demand remains strong due to the region's economic and educational opportunities, particularly around Texas A&M University. Homes are spending an average of 59 days on the market, slightly longer than last year. Rentals remain competitive, with a single family homes start around $1,400 per month. This reflects the high demand for housing, particularly among students and professionals 

While it may not be the big city, there are still year around activities to enjoy, Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival, Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Santa's Wonderland, and the college sports from Texas A&M.

Dallas/Forth Worth Area

One of the most prominent metro regions in the country, combines the best of city life with southern charm. Dallas offers lots of variety, whether it's fascinating museums, a thriving nightlife in Deep Ellum, or a lively cuisine environment in Uptown.

In keeping with its diversity, it offers a wide variety of renting possibilities. This is among the most affordable major cities in the nation, with decent apartments and homes for rent under $1,000 and different price points spread out over the city.

Dallas offers access to exhilarating activities and recreation locations, from the theaters and galleries in the Dallas Arts District to the Dallas Cowboys' AT&T Stadium, George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, and the Dallas World Aquarium.  The city also boasts fantastic nightlife hotspots. Above all, Dallas is among the nation's most affordable metro regions.

Start Searching 60 days before
Schedule time with a Texas Real Estate Agent to start the process of locating your new home.  Properties sometimes may rent out quickly due to the time of the year, so it's crucial to begin looking 60 days before move-in.  At 60 days, research and finalize the neighbhorhood, and start touring properties at 30 days before your move-in date. Typically most properties will only hold a property up to 2 weeks once application has been approved.

Understanding Rental Criteria

Most landlords are looking for 2.5 to 3 x rent to income. For example, if a property requires 3x rent to income - $1,000 a month, each applicant will need to make $3,000 month to qualify.

Understanding Required Fees & Move-In Fees

Application Fee(s)

Admin Fee(s)

Pet Deposit(s)

Pet Fee(s)

Utilities for property (Electric, Water, Gas, Pest Control, Valet Trash, etc)

Security Deposit (Typically 1 Month Rent)

First Month Rent (Full Month - Not-Prorated)

Get All the Paperwork You Need Ready

You must get ready with all of the required paperwork before moving in. This information consists of your birth certificate, driver's license, and other forms of identification. As well as providing evidence of monthly income, you must also disclose your rent history.

Drivers License

Social Security Card/Passport

Pay Stubs - At least 2 most current to reflect required income.

*If Self-Employed - Ask regarding documents

Pet Vaccine Record - Current year shot record with rabbies vaccine

*If ESA or Service Animal - Letter from medical professional

Complete the Rental Application
This step in the process is to contact the property manager and complete a rental application.

If you have a co-signer or want to live with roommates - EVERYONE must submit an application with a fee. 

Expect Credit and Background Checks
A property management agency and most landlords will run credit and background checks to ensure you're a suitable applicant.

Finally, they'll check to see if you have any criminal history.

Move-In
Once Approved - You can finally sign the lease, pay the necessary move-in fees and coordinate move-in!