10/14/2026
Renting Your First Apartment? 7 Things to Know BEFORE You Apply!
If you're a young mom looking for your first apartment, there's more to consider than just finding a place with affordable rent.
Before you start spending money on apartment applications, here are 7 things you need to know!
1️⃣ Understand Apartment Income Requirements
Many apartments require you to earn 2.5–3 times the monthly rent in gross income (before taxes).
For example, if rent is $1,200/month:
2.5x rent = $3,000/month
3x rent = $3,600/month
💡 TIP: Ask whether the apartment accepts housing assistance, child support, or other documented sources of income. Every property has different requirements.
2️⃣ Calculate Your TOTAL Move In Costs
Just because rent is $1,200 doesn't mean that's all you need to move in!
Here's an example of what your upfront expenses could look like:
Application fee: $50
Security deposit: $1,200
First month's rent: $1,200
Utility setup/deposits: $150
Total: $2,600 just to move in!
And that doesn't include furniture, moving supplies, renters insurance, or other possible fees.
These are example amounts. Actual costs vary by property.
3️⃣ Check the Apartment Requirements BEFORE Applying
Application fees add up quickly, especially when they're nonrefundable.
Before spending your money, ask:
✔️ What is the minimum credit score?
✔️ Do you accept first time renters with no rental history?
✔️ What documents do I need to prove my income?
✔️ Are there restrictions for applicants with previous evictions?
✔️ Are there additional administrative or move in fees?
✔️ What happens to my application fee if I'm denied?
💡 TIP: Ask for the rental screening criteria in writing before submitting an application. This can help you avoid wasting money applying somewhere you don't qualify.
4️⃣ Getting Approved Doesn't Mean You Can Afford It
Let's say your monthly take home pay is $3,200.
Here's what your monthly expenses could look like:
Rent: $1,200
Utilities: $180
Groceries: $350
Transportation: $250
Childcare: $400
Phone: $80
Total monthly expenses: $2,460
That leaves you with $740 for everything else, including diapers, household supplies, clothes, emergencies, savings, and other expenses.
And remember, these are just examples. Your actual expenses may be higher.
💡 TIP: Create a monthly budget BEFORE signing a lease. You want to make sure you can comfortably afford your apartment, not just qualify for it.
5️⃣ Read Your Lease BEFORE Signing
Your lease is a legal agreement, so make sure you understand what you're agreeing to.
Pay attention to:
✔️ When rent is due and how much late fees cost
✔️ How long your lease lasts
✔️ What happens if you need to move out early
✔️ Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance
✔️ What can be deducted from your security deposit
✔️ Whether utilities, parking, trash, or other services cost extra
💡 TIP: If the landlord makes a promise about repairs, fees, or special arrangements, ask to have it included in writing.
6️⃣ Protect Your Security Deposit
Before moving your furniture into your apartment:
✔️ Take pictures and videos of every room.
✔️ Check for damaged walls, flooring, and appliances.
✔️ Look for leaks, pests, mold, and other maintenance concerns.
✔️ Complete your move in inspection checklist.
✔️ Report existing damage to your landlord in writing.
Keep copies of everything!
💡 TIP: Don't wait until you're moving out to document problems that were already there when you moved in.
7️⃣ Know Your Rights as a Renter
If you're renting in Indiana, here are two things worth knowing:
🏠 Security Deposits: Indiana landlords generally have 45 days after the tenancy ends to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions, subject to legal requirements. Make sure you provide your forwarding address in writing.
🏠 Fair Housing: Under federal fair housing law, landlords generally cannot refuse to rent to you simply because you have children. Families with children are protected against housing discrimination, with certain exceptions.
💡 TIP: Keep copies of your lease, rent receipts, maintenance requests, and communications with your landlord.
💜 BONUS: What If You Don't Qualify for an Apartment?
Don't automatically assume you have no options.
Ask whether the property accepts:
A qualified co signer
Alternative proof of income
Applicants with limited rental history
Housing vouchers or other rental assistance
📍 Indianapolis Housing Resources:
IndianaHousingNow.org – Search for available rental housing, including affordable housing options.
Indianapolis Housing Agency – Learn about housing assistance programs and eligibility.
Keep in mind that assistance availability and waiting lists can change.
📌 SAVE THIS FIRST APARTMENT CHECKLIST!
Whether you're moving into your first apartment, looking for a better place for your family, or preparing to live independently, understanding the rental process can help you avoid costly mistakes.
At Her Way Forward, we're helping young single mothers ages 15–25 in Indianapolis gain the knowledge, resources, and life skills needed to build stable, independent futures.
💬 For those who have rented before, what's ONE thing you wish someone had told you before getting your first apartment?
