Welcome to SLPM! Before you apply, please read these instructions carefully. This guide explains our rental requirements and how the application process works.
1. Pick a Property First
We do not accept applications just to “see if you qualify.”
You must choose a property you are truly interested in renting from our list of available homes:
2. Who Must Apply
- Every adult (18 or older) who will live in the home must complete a separate application.
- Each person must also pay the application fee.
3. Application Fee
- The fee is $35 per applicant.
- This covers the real cost of screening (credit check, rental history, and staff time).
- California law sets limits on these fees, and we follow those rules.
4. How We Handle Your Application Fee
At SLPM, we use the Refund Process required by California law:
- We may review more than one application for the same property.
- If your application is not chosen, we will refund your application fee.
- Refunds will be sent within 7 days after we select a tenant or within 30 days of your application, whichever is sooner.
This means your fee is not automatically lost if you are not selected.
5. Credit Report
If we check your credit, we will automatically provide you with a free copy of the report within 7 days. You do not need to ask for it.
6. Accuracy
Please make sure all information on your application is true and complete. False or missing information can lead to denial.
7. Approval Process
- Applications are reviewed based on our rental qualifications (see below).
- If you meet the requirements and the property is available, you may be approved.
- If multiple qualified applicants apply, the property owner will make the final choice.
8. Holding Deposit
If you are approved:
- You will have 3 business days to bring in a holding deposit.
- You must see the inside of the home before paying this deposit.
Minimum Qualifications
To rent with SLPM, you must meet the following requirements. If you don’t, you may still qualify with a guarantor (co-signer).
Income
- Household income must be at least 3 times the rent.
- For multi-unit buildings in Oakland, the requirement is 2.5 times the rent.
- Income must be steady and verifiable (pay stubs, job offer letter, bank statements, or benefit letters).
- Temporary income (child support, worker’s comp, temporary housing help) cannot be counted. A guarantor will be required if this is your only income.
Employment
- At least 2 years of steady work in the same field or company.
- List all jobs if you have more than one.
- If you don’t meet this, you may qualify with a guarantor.
Rental History
- 3 years of positive rental history that we can verify.
- If you don’t have this, a guarantor is required.
Credit Score
- Minimum combined score: 670 or higher.
- For multi-unit buildings in Oakland, minimum is 630 or higher.
Evictions and Collections
- No evictions or unlawful detainers.
- Applications may be denied if unpaid collections are more than $1,000.
Housing Vouchers (Section 8 and Others)
- We accept all housing vouchers.
- Voucher must match the number of bedrooms in the property.
- You may provide extra proof of financial responsibility (pay stubs, benefit letters) for us to consider.
Guarantor (Co-Signer)
- If you don’t meet one of the requirements, you may use a guarantor.
- The guarantor must meet all requirements and earn at least 4 times the rent.
Quick Summary
- Pick a property before you apply.
- Each adult applies separately and pays a $35 fee.
- Fees are refunded if you are not chosen.
- Credit report is provided automatically.
- Be honest on your application.
- Must meet income, work, rental history, and credit standards (or use a guarantor).
- Housing vouchers accepted.
- Holding deposit due within 3 days if approved.
👉 Ready to apply? Start here: View Available Rentals