The Art of Exaggeration (or Outright Lying): Fabricating the Perfect Tenant

Honesty is generally the best policy, but some applicants seem to believe that rewriting reality is the key to unlocking their dream apartment. Let’s explore the creative liberties people take when crafting their tenant persona.

The Employment Enrichment Program

“Currently employed as a Senior Vice President at Goldman Sachs.” This sounds impressive, doesn’t it? Except when the reference check reveals the applicant’s most recent employment was… a part-time dog walker. Inflating job titles and fudging employment history are classics in the rental application hall of shame. One landlord shared a story of an applicant claiming to be a “renowned architect,” only to discover his “renowned” status was limited to designing elaborate Lego structures.

Salary Shenanigans: Bending the Truth About Income

Perhaps even more common than embellished job titles is the income inflation. One landlord recalled an applicant submitting pay stubs that looked suspiciously…homemade. A closer inspection revealed they were crudely Photoshopped, with the income tripled from the original. Another classic: claiming self-employment as a “highly successful freelance consultant” without any supporting documentation (or a website, for that matter).

The Mystical Power of Fake References

“My previous landlord absolutely adored me! Best tenant they ever had!” Said every applicant with a questionable rental history. Landlords are wise to this tactic, and many have learned to be extra diligent in verifying references. Some applicants will go as far as to enlist friends or family to pose as former landlords, but their lack of knowledge about the applicant’s (fake) tenancy often betrays them. One landlord caught a “previous landlord” in a lie when they couldn’t recall the address of the supposedly rented property.

Desperate Measures: Going the Extra Mile (or Mile and a Half)

Sometimes, lying just isn’t enough. Some prospective tenants resort to truly creative, albeit questionable, strategies to secure their lease.

The Bribery Attempt: Sweetening the Deal (Literally)

A box of gourmet chocolates? A gift certificate to a fancy restaurant? Some applicants attempt to win over landlords with lavish gifts, hoping to overshadow any potential shortcomings in their application. While a thoughtful gesture might be appreciated, most landlords prioritize a solid application and a good credit score over a box of truffles. One landlord received a beautifully wrapped gift basket filled with… lottery tickets. While amusing, it didn’t exactly scream “responsible tenant.”

The Sob Story Symphony: Playing on Emotions

“If I don’t get this apartment, I’ll be living on the streets!” While some applicants may genuinely be facing difficult circumstances, using a sob story as leverage is a risky tactic. Landlords, while often empathetic, need to make objective decisions based on qualifications. One landlord shared a story of an applicant claiming they were about to lose their job and their car simultaneously, all while driving a brand-new luxury vehicle to the apartment viewing. The inconsistencies were, shall we say, noticeable.

The Co-Signer Conundrum: Enlisting Unsuspecting Allies

Finding a co-signer with a stellar credit history can be a lifesaver for some renters. However, some applicants attempt to forge signatures or use co-signers without their knowledge. One landlord discovered an applicant had used their grandmother’s name and social security number without her consent. The grandmother, understandably, was not amused.

Red Flags Waving Wildly: Warning Signs Landlords Can’t Ignore

Beyond the outright lies and desperate measures, some applications simply scream “trouble.” Here are a few red flags that send landlords running in the opposite direction.

The Unexplained Gap: Missing Information or Blanks

A rental application with significant gaps in employment history or missing personal information raises immediate suspicion. Are they hiding something? Did they simply forget to fill it out? Either way, it warrants further investigation. One applicant submitted an application that was almost entirely blank, except for their name and phone number. When the landlord called to inquire, the applicant simply said, “You’ll figure it out.”

The Aggressive Application: Demanding and Entitled

An applicant who is overly demanding or entitled from the outset is a major red flag. Demands for immediate repairs before even signing the lease, a condescending attitude, or a refusal to follow application instructions are all signs of a potentially difficult tenant. A landlord shared a story of an applicant who, upon receiving the application, immediately crossed out several clauses and rewrote them to their liking. Unsurprisingly, they were not approved.

The Poor Credit Score Confession: Admitting Defeat (Almost)

While a poor credit score doesn’t automatically disqualify an applicant, it’s a major red flag. Some applicants will attempt to downplay their credit issues with elaborate explanations involving identity theft, unforeseen medical expenses, or unfair reporting practices. While these explanations may be legitimate in some cases, landlords need to verify the information and assess the overall risk.

Conclusion: Lessons Learned from Rental Application Fails

The world of rental applications is a fascinating microcosm of human behavior, showcasing both the best and the worst of us. While the stories above are humorous (in retrospect), they highlight the importance of thorough screening, diligent reference checks, and a healthy dose of skepticism. For landlords, learning to spot these red flags is crucial for protecting their property and ensuring a positive rental experience. For prospective tenants, honesty, transparency, and a genuine commitment to being a good tenant are the keys to unlocking the door to their dream apartment. And remember, sometimes, the truth (even with a few imperfections) is far more appealing than a perfectly fabricated fantasy.