Why I Was Approved for an Apartment, Then Waited Six Weeks

Why I Was Approved for an Apartment, Then Waited Six Weeks

Many times in life, we receive news that seems too good to be true—such as approval for an apartment. But then, the reality can be quite different.

When I applied for an apartment and received an email saying I was approved, I was thrilled. However, when I called to confirm, they told me they were still working on it. Should you be concerned in a similar situation? Here's what you need to know.

Mistakes and Communication

Mistakes happen, and it's possible that someone may have jumped the gun when sending the approval email. Or maybe someone overstepped their authority. Worrying about it won’t help. If you’re not approved, try again somewhere else.

It depends on how many times you’ve called them only to hear they’re still working on it. Once, it's probably fine. However, if this situation persists over six weeks, it could indicate a problem. If someone just moved out, it's standard for landlords to repair or replace items that might be worn down, such as carpet or flooring.

Clarifying with the Landlord

Why not call to clarify? My company often requires a deposit with signing the lease, which typically happens 2–3 weeks before move-in.

Not all landlords require a deposit, but it’s always a good idea to check if they need anything else before you can officially move in. If the listing or any other written communication from the company states that a deposit is required, ensure you have it ready once they request it. Additionally, read through any documentation to ensure you're not missing anything and call to confirm for a final check.

Lastly, don’t wait for the internet or random advice; talk directly to the manager. I would usually take the deposit along with the first and last month's rent when signing the lease. So, just call and ask when they want the deposit. Remember, the manager might be busy with other tasks and simply hasn’t had the time to call you.

Final Thoughts

Proper communication and understanding of the process can often alleviate concerns. Take the initiative to clarify and ensure everything is in order. Waiting for a response or dealing with unclear instructions can understandably be frustrating, but taking the initiative can help you move forward smoothly.

Stay positive and proactive. If you encounter delays, check if there's a specific reason behind the waiting period and communicate effectively to move forward.