Skip to content
×
Pro Members Get
Full Access!
Get off the sidelines and take action in real estate investing with BiggerPockets Pro. Our comprehensive suite of tools and resources minimize mistakes, support informed decisions, and propel you to success.
Advanced networking features
Market and Deal Finder tools
Property analysis calculators
Landlord Command Center
ANNUAL Save 54%
$32.50 /mo
$390 billed annualy
MONTHLY
$69 /mo
billed monthly
7 day free trial. Cancel anytime
×
Take Your Forum Experience
to the Next Level
Create a free account and join over 3 million investors sharing
their journeys and helping each other succeed.
Use your real name
By signing up, you indicate that you agree to the BiggerPockets Terms & Conditions.
Already a member?  Login here
Tenant Screening
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

Updated almost 2 years ago on . Most recent reply

User Stats

77
Posts
11
Votes
Mattie Covatch
  • New York City, NY
11
Votes |
77
Posts

How long does landlord have to send lease after deposit?

Mattie Covatch
  • New York City, NY
Posted

Hello all, I would appreciate some info here on how long a landlord has to get a tenant a lease prepared after they apply.

I'm a tenant. One month ago, I applied for and was approved for an apartment at a large apartment complex. I immediately paid the security deposit.

A few weeks ago, they said the "only thing left" was for them to send the section 8 form in (request for tenancy). This complex regularly accepts section 8 and is known for section 8. It's a large cheap apartment complex in a rougher area of town. I have spotless rental history- lived in the same house for 10+ years. I recently got approved for section 8 after a lot of personal tragedies so I am looking for a place that accepts section 8 as my current place cannot/will not (too pricey). I have a steady job and clean background record with multiple forms of ID and pay stubs. My credit score is good. My downfall is the section 8 voucher.

I contacted them this week and now they're saying they're waiting for an apartment to open, then they'll send in the section 8 request for tenancy. Their website has shown that they have 20+ apartment units available right now for weeks. 

Is it likely that 20+ apartments showing as available now for weeks on their website really need renos/repairs before a move-in? Is it more likely that this apartment is stalling me?

I want to believe that they really have no units available right now even though their website shows 20+ units available now, and hope that I still have a chance at getting an apartment with them. But, I feel like they're stalling me. I don't want to contact them too often and annoy them, but am also concerned. They said they should have units opening later this week and would contact me after. I'm trying to patiently wait, but am worried that they're stalling me with no intentions of ever letting me move in.

Does an apartment complex landlord have to refund my security deposit paid already if they don't send me a lease after a certain amount of time?  I'm trying to gauge whether I should continue to look for other possible places or not. Thanks for any information anyone is able to share, I appreciate it.

Loading replies...