How to Secure Apartments in Red-Hot Rental Markets (Before They’re Gone)

Finding the perfect apartment — the ideal blend of location, price, and amenities — can feel like winning the lottery. But in today’s competitive rental market, simply finding that gem isn’t enough. You need to act fast. With vacant apartments renting in just over a month on average and multiple renters vying for each unit, hesitation can mean losing out on your dream space. In a competitive rental market, speed and preparedness are your greatest allies. The goal is to move from “I love it!” to “It’s mine!” as quickly as possible, ensuring you turn that promising apartment into your new happy place.

The reality is, the competition for rental apartments is high all over the country, and supply struggles to keep pace. Even with lots of new apartments entering the market in recent years, securing one in a competitive rental market requires a strategic approach.

Simply put, if you’ve found an apartment that checks all your boxes, you can’t afford to wait. This guide will equip you with the tools and knowledge to navigate a red-hot rental market and secure your desired apartment before someone else does.

1. Get your documents ready in advance

A common mistake renters make is waiting until they find an apartment before gathering their paperwork. This can cause unnecessary delays and put them at a disadvantage, especially in a competitive rental market where speed is crucial. Since landlords often process rental applications as soon as they receive them, hesitation or missing documents can result in losing the apartment to another renter who was better prepared.

To improve your chances, you need to have everything ready to submit immediately, ensuring that you can act the moment you find a place that meets your needs. Most landlords require:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or an offer letter)
• Employment verification
• A copy of your ID
• Rental history and references from previous landlords
• A completed rental application

Having all these documents in one place will save valuable time and allow you to submit your application as soon as you find an apartment you love.

2. Check your credit score and finances

Before you start applying, check your credit score to ensure it meets the requirements of most landlords in your area. A strong credit score can make a big difference in securing a rental in a competitive rental market. If your score is low, consider ways to improve it, such as paying off outstanding debts.

Also, be prepared to show proof that you can afford rent. Many landlords require that renters earn a certain multiple of the monthly rent, so having pay stubs or bank statements ready will make the process smoother. It also helps if you know in advance how much rent you can afford.

3. Be ready to apply immediately

In a competitive rental market, hesitation can mean losing the apartment to another renter. If you’ve found a place that checks all your boxes, don’t wait — submit your application as soon as possible.

To speed up the process, make sure you fill out the rental application in advance (ideally, a rental application that stands out) or keep a digital copy with all the required information so you can send it within minutes of viewing the apartment. Some landlords review applications on a first-come, first-served basis, so being ready to submit immediately can put you ahead of the competition. The faster you apply, the better your chances of getting the lease and locking in your ideal rental before it’s gone.

4. Get a strong co-signer if needed

If you don’t meet the financial requirements or have limited rental history, a co-signer can help strengthen your application. A co-signer is someone (usually a parent or close relative) who guarantees to cover rent if you are unable to.

In red-hot rental markets, landlords are more likely to approve applications with a reliable co-signer. If you anticipate needing one, discuss it in advance so they are ready to sign when needed.

5. Have references ready

A glowing recommendation from a previous landlord can significantly boost your chances of securing a rental in a hot rental market. After all, landlords want to rent to reliable renters who pay on time, take care of the property, and follow lease terms. A strong reference can reassure them that you’ll be a responsible renter, setting you apart from the competition — especially when multiple applicants are vying for the same unit.

Before you start applying, reach out to past landlords or property managers to confirm they are willing to vouch for you. If possible, ask them to write a reference letter highlighting your positive rental history, such as timely payments, good communication, and respect for the property. Having their contact information readily available can also speed up the approval process, as some landlords prefer to call references directly. Being proactive with references can make a big difference in securing a rental in a competitive rental market.

6. Be flexible with move-in dates

If possible, be open to adjusting your move-in date to match the landlord’s schedule. Some apartments are available immediately, while others may not be vacant for a few weeks due to the current renter’s lease ending or necessary maintenance work. So, in a competitive rental market, flexibility can give you an edge over other applicants who have rigid move-in timelines.

Landlords prefer renters who can fill a vacancy as soon as possible to minimize lost rental income. If you’re able to move in earlier than planned, go ahead and mention this in your application — it could set you apart from other renters who need more time to relocate. On the other hand, if an apartment isn’t available yet but you’re willing to wait, letting the landlord know you’re happy to align with their schedule can work in your favor.

7. Schedule apartment tours ASAP

When you find a listing that interests you, don’t wait too long to schedule a tour. The longer you delay, the higher the chance that the apartment will be leased before you even get to see it. Desirable units can be taken off the market within days of being listed, especially in a competitive rental market. Acting fast can make all the difference between securing the apartment you love and missing out on it.

If you’re unable to visit in person, many landlords and property managers offer virtual tours. Take advantage of this option to get a clear view of the unit’s layout, condition, and amenities without having to be there physically. Some landlords may even conduct live video tours, allowing you to ask questions in real time. If a virtual tour isn’t listed as an option, don’t hesitate to ask — the more proactive you are, the better your chances of securing a rental in hot rental markets.

8. Be professional and personable

First impressions matter (Yes, even in the rental market!). Whether you’re meeting a landlord in person, speaking on the phone, or communicating via email, it’s important to be professional, courteous, and responsive. Landlords and property managers often receive multiple applications for the same unit, so how you present yourself can influence their decision. A polite, well-prepared renter is more likely to stand out in a competitive rental market.

When reaching out, use clear and respectful communication. If you’re inquiring about an apartment, introduce yourself, express interest, and ask relevant questions without overwhelming the landlord with too many details. If you’re scheduling a tour or submitting an application, respond promptly to emails and phone calls to show that you’re serious about renting the unit. Delayed responses can make it seem like you’re not fully committed, which may lead a landlord to consider another applicant instead.

Additionally, take a moment to craft a brief introduction about yourself when applying. Mention your job, any stable income sources, and what drew you to the apartment. Highlighting your reliability as a renter — such as a history of on-time rent payments or long-term stays at previous rentals — can help reassure the landlord that you’ll be a responsible renter.

Securing a rental in a competitive rental market requires preparation, speed, and strategy. If you’re currently searching for an apartment, don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. Start gathering your paperwork, check your credit score, and be ready to apply as soon as you find the right place. In a hot rental market, timing is everything — so take these steps now to secure your new happy place before someone else does!