What do I need to bring to a lease signing?

You should always confirm what to bring to a lease signing with the management company / landlord or your real estate agent before showing up, but generally the following is required:

• U.S. driver’s license or passport and visa (for international individuals)
• Certified / cashier’s check for the first month’s rent
  • Payable to the mgmt co / landlord
  • Must be separate than the security deposit check
  • The last month’s rent may be required as well (check with the mgmt co / landlord)
• Certified / cashier’s check for the security deposit
  • Payable to the mgmt co / landlord
  • Must be separate than the rent check

Other documents / checks that you may need to have at lease signing include:

• Certified / cashier’s check for the broker fee (commission)
  • Payable to the brokerage firm (NOT to the individual real estate agent)
  • Some firms may accept money orders, cash, a personal check or even a credit card
• Any outstanding documents required for the application process

It is always a good idea to make photocopies of any checks and paperwork submitted to a real estate agent or mgmt co / landlord to maintain for your records.

Note: Management companies / landlords and brokerage firms have different policies (forms of payment accepted) regarding rent, the security deposit and commissions (broker fees), so check with each prior to issuing payment.