How To Package a Renter File

a Renter file is made up of 3 KEY Parts: Application, Tenant screening & supporting documentation.

Once your MyHouseKeys.com account is setup you will upload your renter file to your File Cabinet which is accessible from the user menu. View this 2-Page Guide (Versión en Español) to see an Illustration of the Process.

Note: HouseKeys is providing this standard renter application packet as a guide. Make sure to check out each program page to see if there are any additional documents that are required for a specific program, rental project, and/or apartment complex.

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Program application Packet

Part 1: Initial Action Items

Basic Information about HouseKeys, how to apply, and where to send and find info.

Part 2: Household Info

Members, Income Sources, Employment History Assets, Liabilities etc.

part 3: intent to follow the rules (abide)

This is a quick breakdown of the rules involved with applying for an income-restricted rental home. The main thing here is the understanding that your income will be reviewed annually.

Tenant screening

The Property Management Company reviews your file to make sure you meet the tenant criteria (click HERE to view sample criteria). They perform a Tenant Screening* to review your financial and rental background and determine your risk level. Tenant Screening is something you should get familiar with, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) offers this Resource Page to explain what’s involved. Be prepared to pay a fee for this screening that could range from $20 to $75, depending on the service that the Property Manager uses.

*In some instances the property management will review for tenant screening and program eligibility.

*The Tenant Screening needs to be completed BEFORE HouseKeys reviews your file for program eligibility.

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Minimum Documents Checklist

  • HouseKeys Program Application

    1. The application helps determine your household size, income, and any special circumstances that may affect your eligibility for affordable housing programs.

    2. It provides important information for assessing your financial stability and determining if you meet the program requirements.

  • Income Documents

    1. Three months paystubs

    2. Financial Statements

      1. Savings & Checking, cash apps (Venmo, PayPal), etc Award Letters (If applicable)

      2. If self-employed, submit an updated year-to-date (P&L) Profit & Loss statement alongside your schedule C forms. (One for each business)

  • Tax Returns

    1. Must be from the LAST TWO YEARS

  • Exhibit Preference completed with supporting documents.

    1. Should they apply to you, you may need to provide exhibit documentation found on our Reference Documents & Standard forms page.

checklist for supporting documentation

The Renter Checklist breaks down the supporting documentation needed from an applicant in order to determine their eligibility. This is primarily focused on household members, income, and assets. There are also documents required to verify identity, any major family changes (divorce, death, birth), and confirm your household size.

Required Documents:

  1. HouseKeys Program application

  2. Income Documentation

  3. Tax Returns

  4. Exhibit Preferences completed with supporting documents.

Supporting Documents

Click on any of the Municipality Links below to go directly to the Program Website. Some sites are restricted as they are still under construction.