Screening Criteria and Disclosure
Screening FAQs
What is Real Property Management Affinity’s stance on equal housing?
Real Property Management Affinity pledges to uphold the letter and spirit of the U.S. Policy for the Achievement of Equal Housing Opportunity. We provide housing without barriers to anyone based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), familial status, disability, age, or marital status, as required by federal and Tennessee law. We also comply with any additional protections under local Memphis ordinances or state law. If the law offers greater protections, we always follow the strictest standard.
How can I preview and apply for properties managed by Real Property Management Affinity?
Our leasing consultants are happy to show you available rental homes in person. You can also preview our properties online 24/7 at https://www.rpmaffinity.com/houses-rent
Who must submit an application and pay the fee?
Every adult 18 and older must submit a completed, signed application and pay the application fee before we start processing. APPLY HERE!
How long does it take to process a rental application?
Application processing usually takes 2–3 business days. Sometimes approval may take longer due to HOA/association approval or other circumstances, we’ll keep you updated!
How long are properties held vacant before renting?
No property is held vacant for more than 10 days unless otherwise approved by Real Property Management Affinity.
How does communication work after I submit my application, and what happens if I am denied?
You’ll hear from us by email, text, or phone within 3 business days after your application is complete. If denied, you’ll get a written notice. If you’re not approved for this property but are otherwise qualified, you can transfer your application and fee, minus a $5 processing fee, to another RPM Affinity property.
Is PetScreening required as part of the application process?
Completion of a PetScreening profile is required for every applicant as part of the application process, whether you have pets, service animals, or no animals.
Why does RPM Affinity use a third-party PetScreening service?
We use this third-party screening service to:
- Clearly communicate our pet and animal-related policies.
- Ensure proper documentation for all animals.
- Maintain accurate records and policy acknowledgments.
- Promote accountability and fairness across all households.
What are the pet fees and monthly pet rent requirements?
A one-time nonrefundable pet fee of $350 applies to the first approved pet. An additional nonrefundable pet fee of $150 applies to each additional pet. Monthly pet rent is based on your pet’s FIDO Score, determined through PetScreening.
How Approval is Determined
Approval is based on eight objective screening factors. Each adult 18 years or older must submit a separate application. All criteria are applied consistently in compliance with Fair Housing laws.
Identification Verification
Each applicant is required to provide a copy of a legible government-issued photo identification card. We may request additional identification documentation as needed to verify. This can include, but is not limited to:
- Valid Driver’s License
- Valid Identification Card
- Social Security Card
- Passport
Credit Score
Minimum credit score requirement: 620.
Applicants between 580–619 may be considered with additional conditions. Applicants below 580 will generally not qualify.
Credit History
We review credit history for the past 7 years including payment history, collections, charge-offs, judgments, and prior landlord debt. Evictions within 7 years may result in denial.
Employment Verification and History
Applicants must provide two most recent consecutive pay stubs (covering at least 30 days of income). Weekly pay may require four pay stubs. Self-employed applicants must provide two recent bank statements and the most recent tax return.
If you are self-employed, retired, or not employed, we can accept such documents as signed tax returns from the previous two (2) years, bank statements, etc., that provide proof of the applicant’s ability to pay the rent.
If military, we need a current copy of your leave and earnings statement. If you are active-duty military, you must be on an assignment that, to the best of your knowledge, will allow you to complete an initial twelve (12) month lease.
Income Verification
Gross household income must be at least three times the monthly rent. Guarantors must earn at least five times the monthly rent and meet credit requirements.
Resident Verification and History
We review rental history for the past 5–7 years. Prior evictions, outstanding landlord balances, or repeated lease violations may result in denial.
Criminal History
Criminal background screening is conducted in compliance with Tennessee law. Violent felonies, drug manufacturing, arson, burglary, or registered sex offender status within the past 7 years may result in denial.
Animal Criteria
All applicants must complete a PetScreening profile. Up to two pets permitted unless otherwise restricted. Pet fees apply. Service and assistance animals are processed in accordance with the law.
Complete Application Package
Applications are not complete until all forms, government-issued ID, income documentation, rental verification, $75 application fee per adult, and $200 application deposit are received.
Application Fees & Costs
Our Fees
| Application Fee | $75 per adult | Non-refundable once processed |
| Application Deposit | $200 | Applied toward security deposit upon lease signing; forfeited if applicant withdraws after approval |
| Lease Closing Fee | $200 | One-time administrative fee |
| Pet Fee (First Pet) | $350 | Nonrefundable |
| Pet Fee (Additional Pet) | $150 Each | Nonrefundable |
| Resident Benefits Package | $51.95 / month | Required |
**All charges and fees are subject to change without notice. Please read your lease before signing.
Viewing & Property Condition
- All applicants must visit the property or sign a waiver to apply.
- Properties are rented “AS IS” unless specific repairs are agreed to in writing.
- Verbal promises are not binding. All agreements must be in writing.
- No property is held vacant for more than 10 days unless otherwise approved by Real Property Management Affinity.
General Policies
- Rent is due by the 1st of each month by 3:00 PM. Late fees apply after the 5th of each month.
- Keys/Access codes are released on the first day of your lease term. Early access requires written approval and pro-rated rent.
- A self-guided move-in inspection must be completed within the first three days of occupancy.
- Report any maintenance issues within your first 3 days in the home.
- Leasing consultants can show you homes, answer questions, and take your application, but only the property manager can approve applications and finalize lease terms. All agreements must be in writing.
Lease Approval and Next Steps
- If your application is approved, you have 24 hours to sign the lease. If not, the application deposit is forfeited as liquidated damages.
- If you withdraw your application after approval, your deposit is also forfeited.
- Your application is only “complete” when you’ve submitted all forms, government-issued photo ID, income and rental verification, and the application deposit.
Resident Application Disclosure (Required RBP)
The Real Property Management – Affinity Resident Benefits Package (RBP) delivers savings and convenient, professional services that make taking care of your home second nature. By applying, the applicant agrees to be automatically enrolled in the required program and pay the applicable cost of $51.95/month, payable with rent.
Your RBP shall include all services listed below, subject to property mechanicals or other limitations:
- HVAC air filter delivery directly to your door approximately every 90 days
- A resident rewards program that helps you earn rewards for paying your rent on time
- Credit building to help boost your credit score with timely rent payments
- $1M Identity Fraud Protection for all adult leaseholders
- On-Demand Pest Control that provides an effective, reactive, and targeted approach to pest control
Liability Insurance that meets all lease requirements from an A-rated carrier
Liability Insurance Requirements & Options
The Landlord requires Residents to obtain liability coverage of at least $100,000 in property damage and personal liability from an A-rated carrier and maintain coverage throughout the lease term. Residents must provide evidence of insurance prior to occupancy, at each lease renewal, and upon request.
To satisfy the insurance requirement, Residents may choose one of two options:
Option 1: Master Policy (Automatic Enrollment)
- If proof of coverage is not provided by lease commencement, the Resident will be automatically enrolled in an insurance policy as part of the RBP.
- Coverage begins on the lease start date and continues throughout the lease term.
- Monthly premium: $11.95. Refer to the insurance carrier for coverage details.
Option 2: Resident Policy (Policy Verification Required)
- Residents may purchase and maintain their own policy, meeting Landlord requirements.
- Evidence of coverage must be submitted by lease commencement.
- RBP Fee will be adjusted accordingly.
- Submit proof here: http://insurance.residentforms.com/
Required Policy Criteria
- Policy purchased from an A-rated carrier
- Coverage meets or exceeds $100,000 in property damage and personal liability
- Real Property Management – Affinity listed as additional interest
- Affinity address: PO Box 660121 Dallas, TX 75266
Resident Responsibility
- Timely pay premiums directly to your insurer to avoid cancellation.
- If coverage lapses, a $25 lease violation fee applies, and automatic enrollment into the Option 1 policy will occur.
Consent to Receive SMS Messages
- Residents consent to receive SMS and phone messages (including prerecorded or autodialed) for service, account, or marketing purposes.
- Standard message/data rates may apply. Services may be modified or terminated at any time without notice.
Note:
- Providing your own insurance policy reduces the RBP cost by the insurance premium billed by Second Nature Insurance Services (NPN No. 20224621).
- Total RBP cost is all-inclusive; no discounts are given if any service is unavailable due to property limitations, unless otherwise stated in the RBP Lease Addendum.
