First-time renter's guide: How to rent an apartment in Texas

How much rent can I afford?

The 30% rule suggests keeping your rent at or below about one-third of your gross monthly income, before taxes, to help maintain a balanced budget.¹ Using this rule as a benchmark can help you get a clear picture of how much rent you can afford before signing a lease by considering your income, upfront costs and monthly expenses.

Renters insurance is not legally required in Texas

However, even if you think you don't need it, many first-time renters look into renters insurance since replacing items can add up, and some leasing offices may require it anyway.⁴Start with these 3 steps.

1. Explore renters insurance and gather recommendations

2. Ask about bundle discounts for your home and car(s)

3. Compare quotes and coverage for the lowest price

What does a security deposit usually cover?

Your security deposit may be used for unpaid rent or damage beyond everyday wear, such as heavy carpet stains, broken blinds, wall damage, pet damage or missing keys.

How do I improve my chances of getting the place I want?

Before applying, it helps to know what most landlords look for — typically income, credit, rental history and any supporting documents — so you can easily apply and secure your new home. If you need a co-signer to help you rent your first apartment with no existing rental history, make sure that person is prepared and understands what they may be responsible for before you apply.

5 questions to ask a landlord or property management before submitting a rental application

1. What income and credit requirements do you typically look for?

Get a better idea of what they’re looking for in an applicant to see if it’s a match.

2. What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Have your documents ready to go, so you can apply as soon as you're ready.

3. How quickly do units usually get filled once applications start coming in?

Can help give you a better sense of how quickly you may need to act.

4. If I have credit or income concerns, what could help strengthen my application?

Can help you figure out what may make your application stronger.

5. Will you need any explanation or additional information about gaps in my rental history?

Helps you clear up questions before they come up later.

Must-haves and nice-to-haves: What matters most in a rental?

Before touring apartments, make a list of your must-have and nice‑to‑have features to compare options more clearly and stay within budget.

Must-haves	Nice-to-haves
Shorter commute to work or school	Pool or outdoor lounge
In-unit washer and dryer	Fitness center or yoga studio
Reserved parking	Updated finishes like granite or wood flooring
Pet-friendly policy with clear fees	Dog park or pet washing station
Central A/C	Smart home features like a smart thermostat

House with a For Rent sign in front of it

Timing can shape both your choices and your budget.

Spring and summer often bring more rental listings and more competition, while slower seasons may offer fewer options and potentially better pricing.

Tour with confidence: How do I find an apartment that best fits what I need?

Looking in more than one place and touring with a plan can help you compare apartments more confidently and avoid surprises later.

Where to look for apartments in Texas

Browse national rental sites to view a wide range of apartments across cities and price points

Check individual apartment community websites for up‑to‑date availability, pricing and move‑in specials

Visit property management company pages to see listings that may not appear on larger platforms

How to research neighborhoods before touring

Join neighborhood groups or local community boards to find listings shared by residents or smaller landlords

Look for subleases or short‑term options that may not be widely advertised

Ask coworkers, friends or local contacts about available units in your desired area

10-point apartment inspection checklist

1. Location

Take time to consider where you want to live during your apartment search. Living close to places you frequent can save money on gasoline and time in traffic.

2. Safety features

Ask if the locks on the doors and sliding doors will be changed prior to move-in and ensure the smoke detectors, as well as carbon monoxide detectors, are operational.

3. Evidence of pests

Look inside cabinets and drawers for any evidence of pests. Droppings or small holes can indicate a problem.

4. First floor compared to the upper floor

Living on the first floor may be convenient, but it may put you at a greater risk for break-ins.

5. Unit location

If the apartment is right by the pool, elevator or party room, ask about the noise levels and their posted hours.

6. Working appliances

Turn on the oven and stove. Use the ice maker and start the dishwasher.

7. Water pressure and temperature

Turn on the faucets to ensure there is enough pressure. Start up a hot shower to see how long it takes to heat up.

8. Leaks

Check around the sinks and toilet area for signs of water leaks. Look for discoloration or puckering on the floors.

9. Utilities

A rental unit's features may influence your utility bills. For example, a top-floor apartment or an apartment with large windows that face the east or west will get more sun, boosting your electricity in the summer but possibly reducing it in the winter.

10. Pet-friendly

If you have a four-legged companion, make sure the rental property you're looking at is pet-friendly, and find out how much they ask for a pet deposit.

Rental scam red flags

As you search for a new place to rent, it’s okay to pause if something feels off. Verify the listing and walk away if a potential deal doesn’t seem legitimate.

Watch for listings with rent that seems far lower than similar apartments nearby

Be cautious if someone pressures you to act fast or refuses to show the unit in person or through a verified live video tour

Verify the landlord or property manager before paying anything by checking county tax records, the management company or other public details

Don’t wire money, send cash or pay before you review and sign a verified lease

How to set up your electricity in Texas as a renter

If your apartment is in a deregulated area, setting up service early can help you avoid move-in delays, compare plans and coordinate with roommates more easily to find a plan that fits your needs.

What deregulated electricity means for Texas renters

Woman preparing food with a food processor and man looking inside refrigerator

In many parts of Texas, electricity is deregulated, which means renters may be able to choose their retail electricity provider instead of being assigned one automatically.

What renters in Texas should know before setting up electricity

Start by checking which utilities are included in rent and which ones you need to set up yourself
If you can choose your electricity provider, compare plans before move-in day
Set up service early so your apartment has electricity ready for move-in day

What an Electricity Facts Label can tell you

An Electricity Facts Label (EFL) can tell you:

How pricing changes at different usage levels
The contract length and any cancellation or minimum usage fees
How your apartment’s size, layout and A/C usage habits may affect your bill

You did it

You’re a first-time renter with a new lease locked in

Now you can move your focus to packing, buying the essentials and scheduling your utilities early to have power ready at your new place on move-in day.

Our renter moving checklist can help you stay organized so you know what to do first and what can wait until later.

Frequently asked questions

Show all answers

What documents do I need to rent an apartment?

Most landlords require proof of income, a government-issued photo ID and a rental application. You may also need bank information, a credit check authorization or recent tax returns if you’re self-employed. Requirements vary by property, so ask up front to avoid delays.

What should I ask during an apartment tour?

Ask about total monthly costs including rent, utilities and fees, lease length and renewal terms, maintenance response times, parking, pet policies and what utilities you choose yourself (like electricity in Texas). Also ask to see the exact unit you’d be renting, not just a model.

Can I negotiate rent?

You're more likely so successfully negotiate during off-peak seasons, if the unit has been vacant, if you’re willing to sign a longer lease or move in quickly. Instead of lower rent, ask about waived fees, upgrades or free parking.

What credit score do I need to rent?

Many landlords require a credit score of at least 600, but a score of 650 or higher can make you a more competitive candidate⁸. Some properties may still approve renters with lower scores if they have strong income, a co-signer or a higher deposit.

Is renters insurance required in Texas?

Texas law doesn’t require renters insurance, but many landlords do. Even when optional, renters insurance is one way to protect your belongings and provide liability coverage at a low monthly cost.

How do I set up electricity in Texas?

In most of Texas, you can choose your electricity provider. Once you know your move-in date and address, compare plans, enroll online and schedule service to start before you move in. This helps ensure the lights are on when you arrive.

What is the 30% rule for rent?

The 30% rule suggests spending no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on rent. It’s a guideline — not a requirement — but it can help you leave room in your budget for utilities, groceries, transportation and savings.

Can I rent with no rental history?

Yes. If you don’t have rental history, landlords may look at income, credit and employment stability, or ask for a co-signer or higher deposit. Providing references from employers or previous roommates can also help.

What are the signs of a rental scam?

Common red flags include rent that seems too good to be true, requests for cash, wire transfers or gift cards, refusal to show the unit in person or pressure to pay before signing a lease. Always verify the listing and never send money without a signed agreement.

What can I do to help get my security deposit back?

To improve your chances of getting your security deposit back, document the apartment’s condition at move-in, keep it clean, take care of small issues early and follow the move-out instructions in your lease. Before you leave, give proper notice and provide a forwarding address so your landlord knows where to send your deposit or any itemized deductions.

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