what kind of references for rental applications? (Portland: apartment, renter) - Oregon (OR) - City-Data Forum

christiner81 · 10-13-2011, 10:02 PM

We are possibly relocating to Portland for my husband's job and I've been lurking here a bunch to learn what I can about the area.

From what I can tell, the rental market is pretty tight and prospective tenants do best in person. I've seen it recommended here to have references ready for action, but I'm not really sure what all that means.

We have owned a home in Arizona for the last 6 years, so we don't have anything for a landlord's reference. If it makes a difference, we're probably going to end up in a single family home in the far west area of portland or the burbs between there and beaverton.

Minervah · 10-14-2011, 05:43 PM

I have been a renter for years and have never been asked for a reference but having said that if you are trying to rent from out of town it might be a good idea.

If you don't have a previous landlord reference, how about a statement from your bank saying that your mortgage payments were always on time? Or maybe a good word from your employer. I think anyone who can vouch for your stability will be helpful.

You are correct in saying that it's better to be here and go in search of "For Rent" signs. But another way is to find an apartment management company and ask as to whether or not they have any openings. I don't know of any on the side of town in which you are looking but some here might and you can google it.

Also, if you have a job lined up, it may be helpful to contact your husband's new employer and see if he or she has any ideas as to where you may be able to find something.

puerco · 10-16-2011, 08:46 AM

I manage an apartment building in SF. I run all my applications through a service called National Tenants Network. They will find out about past rentals or homes and whether or not the applicant has paid rent on time, been evicted, etc... They also look at the financial history but I'm more interested in how they were as tenants. Your having owned your home in AZ would look good to NTN. Hopefully the managers in Portland use a similar service.