Applying for a new home should feel clear and straightforward, not stressful. At Alta, we’ve designed our application process to be as transparent and predictable as possible, so you always know what to expect and can move forward with confidence. Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of everything from your first tour to receiving your keys.
Step 1: Tour the Apartment
Before submitting an application, we ask that all prospective residents tour the apartment first, whether in person or virtually through a video call. We want to make sure the home feels right for you before you invest time or money in the application process.
If you’re located outside the area, we’re happy to coordinate a live video tour or provide access to a 3D virtual walkthrough. Either way, all renters will meet with an Alta representative before lease signing so we can walk through important details together and answer any questions you have.
You’re welcome to browse our current available listings here.
Step 2: Review the Screening Requirements
Before applying, it’s a good idea to take a moment to review our qualification standards so you feel prepared going in.
A few basics to know:
- The application fee is $35 per applicant
- Every adult occupant age 18 or older must submit a separate application
- Guarantors are also required to complete their own application
Our applications are evaluated using consistent, objective screening standards applied equally to all applicants, in full compliance with applicable federal, state, and local fair housing laws.
General requirements include:
- Credit history evaluated using consistent, objective criteria applied equally to all applicants
- Combined gross monthly household income of at least three times the monthly rent
- All lawful and verifiable sources of income are accepted, including employment, self-employment, housing assistance, vouchers, and other lawful income sources
- Rental history evaluated using documented and consistently applied criteria
- Screening reports are evaluated in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local housing laws
All applicants are evaluated on the same criteria regardless of any characteristic protected under federal, state, or local fair housing law.
If you have any questions about the screening process before applying, our team is happy to walk through the details with you.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications are submitted through our secure online platform. Please note that we are not able to accept applications through Zillow.
All applications are reviewed in the order they’re received using consistent screening criteria. When qualified applications are received, approval may be based on objective business factors such as earliest completed application or move-in timing that matches the available possession date. Apartments can generally be reserved no more than thirty days before the approved move-in date. Any dates beyond that are open for discussion with your leasing representative.
If you need any help completing your application, our team is here to assist.
Step 4: Screening and Verification
Most application reviews are completed within 12 to 24 hours once all required documentation has been received. To help keep things moving smoothly, we recommend having the following ready in advance:
- Recent pay statements or documentation of your lawful income source, up to a month’s worth
- Employer or income source contact information, in case verification is requested
- Contact information for prior housing references, where applicable
It’s also a good idea to give your references a heads-up that they may receive a verification request during the process. Delays in hearing back from references can sometimes slow things down, and a quick note from you can make a real difference.
Step 5: Lease Preparation and Signing
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your lease agreement electronically for review and signature.
Because the apartment remains available to other qualified applicants until a lease is fully signed, lease documents typically include a signing deadline of 24 hours. This keeps the process fair and efficient for everyone involved.
Step 6: Review Your Lease Carefully
Your lease agreement covers everything you need to know about your residency, including rent, deposits, policies, and building guidelines. We encourage you to read through it carefully before signing.
If anything is unclear or you’d like to talk through a specific section, an Alta representative is happy to walk through the agreement with you before the signing deadline. We want you to feel completely comfortable with what you’re signing.
Step 7: Complete Your Move-In Setup
After your lease is signed, you’ll receive instructions to set up your resident portal and work through your move-in checklist. The following items are typically required within 24 hours of lease signing:
- First month’s rent payment
- Security deposit payment
- Resident portal setup
- Utility setup, including PG&E where applicable
- Proof of renters insurance
These steps need to be completed before keys can be released, so getting started on them promptly helps keep your move-in timeline on track.
Step 8: Schedule Your Move-In Appointment
Once your pre-move-in steps are complete, you’ll schedule a move-in appointment with your Alta leasing representative. On move-in day, your representative will meet you at the property, hand over your keys, walk through the apartment with you, and review the move-in inspection process.
Within three days of move-in, you’ll complete your move-in inspection through our inspection portal. This gives you the opportunity to document the apartment’s condition and upload any photos or notes you’d like on record. It’s an important step that helps ensure the move-out process is accurate and transparent when the time comes.
Before scheduling movers or bringing in large furniture, please take a moment to review the move-in policies outlined in your lease.
Step 9: Settling In and Getting Support
Once you’re home, most of your communication with our team will take place through your resident portal. From there, you can submit maintenance requests, ask questions, and track updates on any service requests.
Your move-in instructions will also include emergency contact information in case urgent assistance is ever needed.
Our goal is to make your entire experience, from that very first tour through your first weeks at home, feel smooth, supported, and genuinely welcoming. We’re so glad you chose Alta, and we look forward to having you as part of our community.
Alta is an equal opportunity housing provider. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local fair housing laws.
You may view available properties here.
