When you are ready to apply we will send you the paperwork and instructions for that landlord and unit with DocuSign or an online link. Be prepared to pay the application fee with the paperwork. It is the completed paperwork AND the application fee paid that take the property off the market.

Everyone over the age of 18 is required to fill out an application and necessary documentation.

Thoroughly fill out the application and provide us with all the information required. Be prepared to provide the following: a completed application, two most recent pay stubs or verifiable proof of income. A copy of your photo ID and a photo of any animals that will be at the property. If extra information is required by the landlord, our processing department will let you know as soon as possible.

Expedite the approval process by providing all the information requested on the application, letting your landlord and place of employment know we will be contacting them. The approval process can take anywhere from one to three days, depending on being able to verify your information and the landlord to whom we present your application.

Once we hear from the landlord that you are approved you will be notified promptly and asked to sign your lease and pay the firsts months rent. Failure to sign the lease and pay the first months rent in a timely manner could result in the property being placed back on the market.

Security deposits and move-in fees. Some landlords require a one month security deposit, which you will receive back at the end of your lease term with interest, provided there is no damage to the apartment. Many landlords ask for a non-refundable move-in or admin fee. The showing agent will make you aware of the fees required while showing you the apartment.

Animals residing at the property need to be listed on the "Pet, ESA's, and Service Animals Application". The key difference between a service animal and an emotional support animal is whether the animal has been trained to perform a specific task or job. Service Animals required because of a disability and trained to perform a specific work or task are not considered pets. Emotional Support Animals (ESA) provide support through companionship and can help ease anxiety, depression, and certain phobias directly related to the person's disability, are not considered pets. Landlords may ask for additional documentation if the disability is not easily determined. If any paperwork contradicts any laws or civil codes, the laws and codes will take precedents.

Pet policies vary from landlord to landlord; condo buildings have pet policies that may dictate what pets are allowed. The number of allowed pets, type, size and breed are all factors in pet policies. One-time, yearly, monthly fees or no fees at all differ form one landlord to another, ask the showing agent for details when viewing the property.

If your application is denied, you will be notified with a phone call.

Baird & Warner fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. The Chicago Fair Housing Regulations prohibit housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military status, source of income or immigration status. Anybody using our services must abide by all Fair Housing Laws.