SmartMove and Multiple applicants

[Daniel Alegre]

So we are using SmartMove for the application process. We have several people who have requested the application but i am struggling with the fact that despite paying the application fee they may not be choosen. 

How do you let the applicant know that despite paying for the credit and background check them may not be choosen without making it seem like it is a personal thing?

[Kelly N.]

I don't use SmartMove, but do let the prospective tenant know that applying does not guarantee they get the apartment, and that the application fee is nonrefundable.  If I get multiple apps I will start with the ones that appear to be the best qualified on paper (based on income, length of lease desired, past rental and employment history) and I'll run those first.  If they qualify and submit a holding deposit and/or sign a lease within a certain amount of time (a week usually) and I haven't run the checks on the other applicants, I return their money.   

It's not personal, you will say the same thing to all applicants.