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.
Program application
Part A-D: Household Info
Members, Income Sources, Employment History Assets, Liabilities etc.
Part E: intent to follow the rules (abide
This is a quick breakdown of the rules involved with an income-restricted home and making sure that you agree to follow the rules. Note: This doesn’t replace your recorded restriction agreement.
part f: certification and authorization
By signing this form, you authorize HouseKeys to process your application and share your information with the parties involved with the transaction. You also certify that you are providing accurate information.
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.
Selecting your City preferences
Refer to the Program’s Exhibit E document for specific city preference information. Then, via your MyHouseKeys Account, indicate your city preferences. Look for the Deadlines on the Opportunity Drawing Notice and Webpage for the Property you are applying for. Refer to the videos below for more details.
Minimum Documents Checklist
Complete Member, Income and Asset Profiles at http://www.myhousekeys.com
Competed Rental Application for Residents and Occupants
View the ODN for property-specific documents
Income:
Last 30 days Paystub(s) for each job
The most current benefit award letters if applicable (e.g. Social Security, Disability, Unemployment, Pensions, etc.)
If Self-Employed, most current Schedule C and a Year-to-Date Profit and Loss
Statement (signed and dated) - for each business separately.
Most Recent Filed Federal Tax Return (all pages) – 2024
Most recent 2 months’ statements from all asset accounts (Checking, savings, retirement, etc. – All Pages)
Identification Documentation for each of the Household Members (Government-issued photo ID)
Upload City Preferences supporting documents to prove you meet the city’s preferences (if applicable). Please refer to Exhibit E for instructions. To view these drawing’s city preferences and form Exhibit E go to https://www.housekeys.org/reference-documents-standard-forms and find “City of San Luis Obipso”, then, Exhibit E.
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:
HouseKeys Program application
Income Documentation
Tax Returns
Edit your City Preferences and upload supporting documents following the instructions HERE.