Apartment Move-In Specials Guide

What counts as a strong move-in special

• Weeks free: typically front-loaded on the first full month or spread across the term.

• Reduced deposits or admin fees: lowers cash due at signing; ask about refunds on breakage.

• Preferred employer discounts: check if your company is on the list for extra savings.

• Parking bundles: garage or reserved surface spots can be folded into concessions.

• Waived pet fees or pet rent: common in pet-friendly buildings competing for renters.

Compare specials apples-to-apples: ask for effective rent with incentives applied and confirm any strings (lease length, look-and-lease deadlines, or specific floor plans).

Move-in prep checklist

• Confirm your target move-in window (most properties quote 45–60 days out).

• Set a realistic budget range that includes rent, parking, pets, and utilities.

• Gather employment verification and income docs so approvals do not stall.

• Decide your must-haves: neighborhood, parking, pets, in-unit laundry, elevator access.

• Identify deal-breakers such as upper floors, long commutes, or short-term lease fees.

When you are ready to apply, having documents ready helps lock specials before they expire. Locators on Apartment Access can verify requirements and submit packets on your behalf.

Timing tips to keep specials valid

• Begin touring 30–45 days before your target date so pricing stays valid through approval.

• Off-peak move-ins (mid-month, winter) often unlock better specials and more inventory.

• Ask how long the quoted special is held—some expire in 24–72 hours or on unit hold.

• Have a backup floor plan or property identified in case your first choice fills.

Go straight to live specials