The GCAAR 1204 form is a comprehensive rental application used in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, DC. It collects extensive information from potential tenants, including personal details, rental and employment history, assets and liabilities, and consent for a credit and background check, aimed at landlords and property managers to vet applicants thoroughly. If you are looking to lease property in these areas, ensure you fill out the GCAAR 1204 form carefully to increase your chances of approval.
Ready to move forward in your rental application process? Click the button below to begin filling out the GCAAR 1204 form.
In the world of real estate, accurately and thoroughly vetting potential tenants is a critical step for property managers and landlords to protect their investment while ensuring a fair and transparent-application process. The GCAAR 1204 form is a comprehensive document designed to serve this exact purpose in the regions of Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, DC. From gathering basic applicant information, employment and income verification, to details about potential occupants and pets, this form stands as a beacon of thorough due diligence. It goes a step further to include the applicant’s rental history, assets, and liabilities, providing a detailed financial snapshot. The importance of the GCAAR 1204 form cannot be overstated, as it follows a structured process that not only adheres to legal requirements, including fair housing laws but also sets clear expectations about the deposit handling and the earnest money deposit. Additionally, the form ensures all parties are on the same page regarding special lease requirements, which could include clauses relevant to military or diplomatic personnel and contingencies relating to special equipment. This document encapsulates the essence of a well-organized application process, fostering transparency and trust between applicants and property owners/agents, thereby creating a foundation for successful tenancies.
RENTAL APPLICATION
(For Use in Montgomery County, Maryland and Washington, DC)
Applicant’s Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________
Application is made to lease property located at _______________________________________________________________
for monthly rental of $________________________________ Security Deposit: $ __________________________________
Lease Term: __________________ Move-in Date:Move-out Date: _______________________
A deposit in the amount of $ ____________________________ (“Earnest Money Deposit”) is to be held by Listing Broker with the
clear understanding that this Application, including each prospective occupant, is subject to approval and acceptance by owner or his duly authorized property manager. The Applicant has no leasehold interests in the rental property until there is a fully ratified lease. In the case of payment by check, the words “Earnest Money Deposit” shall be placed on the check.
Additionally, a non-refundable fee of $is to be used in full by the Listing Broker for the credit/consumer
check and processing the application with the understanding that this application, including each prospective occupant is subject to Landlord's approval and acceptance. Should the cost of processing exceed the amount of the non-refundable fee, a portion of the Deposit shall be applied to pay such excess cost. When so approved and accepted, the applicant agrees to execute a lease and to pay any balance due on the security deposit and/or the first month's rent (as required by Landlord) within three (3) days after being notified of acceptance and before possession is given.
SPECIAL LEASE REQUIREMENTS: Military/Diplomatic Clause: Yes No
Contingencies/Special Equipment:
OCCUPANTS: The premises are to be occupied only by the following # of occupants:
Total Number of Occupants: __________
Name: ______________________________________________________________ Age:
Pets:
Dog: Breed:
Weight:
Cat
Other: _________________________________
How many pets total? ___________
AUTOMOBILES, MOTOR CYCLES, TRUCKS, BOATS, AND TRAILERS:
Total Number of Vehicles: ____________
Type/Make: ____________________________ Year:
Tag #:
State:
Are any of the above commercial vehicles? If so, which ones? ___________________________________________
All motor vehicles or trailers shall have current licenses and may be parked ONLY in garages, driveways, if provided, on the street (not in fire lanes or on the lawn), OR AS REQUIRED BY THE CONDOMINIUM OR HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION.
In compliance with federal fair housing regulations, the Property shall be made available to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, physical or mental handicaps, familial status or any additional protected classes specified by State of Maryland, District of Columbia or local jurisdiction law.
For Office Use Only
Date Application Received by Agent/Broker: _________________________________________________
©2008, The Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS®, Inc.
This Recommended Form is property of the Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS®, Inc. and is for use by REALTOR® members only.
Previous editions of this Form should be destroyed.
GCAAR # 1204 - Rental Application –MC & DC
Page 1 of 4
2/2008
(Previously form # 1204)
Downloaded from http://www.tidyforms.com
Applicant's Name:
Birth Date:
SS#: ______________________________________
Driver's License # or Government-Issued ID #:
State: _______________________
Home Phone:________________________________ Temporary Local # (if applicable): _____________________________
Office Phone:
Mobile Phone: _____________________________________________
Current Address:
Street
City
State
Zip
Own
Rent Years:
Rent/Mortgage Payments: $
Present Landlord/Agent:
Phone: _____________________________
Reason for moving: ____________________________________________________________________________________
List all previous addresses for the last five years including period of stay in each and the name and telephone number of Landlord/ Agent from whom you rented. (Use additional sheet if needed).
Previous Address:
Landlord/Agent's Name:
Phone:
__________________________
From (Date): ___________________To:
Monthly Rent: $ _____________________________________
Phone: ______________________________
Current Employer: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Position:How Long ___________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Supervisor:
Supervisor’s Phone: ___________________________
If employed less than one year with current employer, give previous employment information:
Previous Employer:
Position:
How Long:
Gross Income: $
Address:
Supervisor’s Phone: _________________________
IF EMPLOYER REFUSES to verify applicant’s employment by phone, it shall become the responsibility of the applicant to provide immediate written confirmation of such information. If applicant is self-employed, attach copies for past two years of individual US tax form 1040 and self- employment US tax schedule C.
CURRENT GROSS ANNUAL INCOME:
Base Pay: $
Overtime: $
Bonuses: $
Commissions: $
Dividends: $
Other: $
TOTAL: $
Page 2 of 4
ASSETS:
Checking Account: $
Bank:
Acct. #:
Savings Account: $
Credit Union:
$
Name:
Other Assets:
(Specify)
LIABILITIES : (Auto Loans, Mortgages, Credit Cards, Bank Loans, Installment Loans, Student Loans, etc.)
Creditor
Total Due
Monthly Terms
_________________________________________________$
TOTAL:
Have you ever filed for bankruptcy?
Yes
No
Date: ____________________________________
Do you have suite for judgments against you?
Citizen of (Country):
Passport #: __________________________
Emergency Contact:
Relationship: _________________________
Address
LOCAL REFERENCES.
Relationship: ________________________
The applicant hereby authorizes Listing Broker/Landlord to order and obtain a credit/consumer report. I hereby authorize the owner or owner’s agent to whom this Application is made and any credit bureau or other investigative agency used by such owner or owner’s agent to investigate and to report and disclose to the owner and the owner’s agent the results of the references herein listed, statements and other data obtained from me or from any other person pertaining to my credit, employment, rent history and financial responsibility. In the event the Listing Broker is acting on behalf of the Landlord, another broker or other party directly or indirectly affected by said transaction, the applicant hereby authorizes the Listing Broker to forward and disclose all or any portion of the information contained in the credit/consumer report to the Landlord, another Broker or other party directly or indirectly involved. The applicant hereby releases Listing Broker/Landlord from any liability whatever for rejection of this application due to credit information or any other reason.”
Upon demand made by Listing Broker/Landlord, at any time during the applicant’s tenancy or thereafter, Listing Broker/Landlord is hereby authorized to release any information contained in this application to any consumer reporting agency, credit bureau, or other investigative agencies.
The truth of the information contained herein is essential, and if the Landlord/Agent determines that any answer or statement contained herein is false or misleading, any lease granted by virtue of this application may be canceled at the option of the Landlord/Agent. This application shall become part of any lease agreement executed between the Landlord and/or Agent and the
This Recommended Form is property of the Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS®, Inc. and is for use by
REALTOR® members only.
GCAAR # 1204 - Rental Application
Page 3 of 4
applicant, and ANY FALSE OR MISLEADING statement shall be considered a SUBSTANTIAL breach of said lease. After this application has been processed, the Landlord/Owner may be contacted for final approval. Applicant will be contacted when approval is received or denied.
THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPHS APPLY TO MARYLAND PROPERTIES ONLY.
1.In the event the application is approved, but the applicant FAILS FOR ANY REASON TO SIGN A LEASE WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED HEREIN, then the Landlord/Agent SHALL RETAIN A PORTION OF THE DEPOSIT as specified herein. The balance of the Deposit, if any, shall be returned to applicant within fifteen (15) days of receipt of written communication, by either party to the other, of a decision that no tenancy shall occur. In the event the application is not approved and accepted by Landlord, the Deposit shall be returned in full to the applicant within fifteen (15) days of such action.
2.The provisions of the foregoing Paragraph 1 do not apply to any Landlord/Agent who offers four or less dwelling units for rent on one parcel of property, or at one location, or to seasonal or condominium rentals.
3.I certify that I have received and carefully examined a copy of the lease and any addenda. I agree that I shall apply for all utilities services before taking occupancy of the leased premises and agree to pay all utilities: GAS, OIL, ELECTRICITY, WATER, SEWER, REFUSE, where applicable, and will pay deposits therefore, if required. The applicant hereby waives any claim for damages for reason of non-acceptance of this application.
4.Should I sign a lease for the above-referenced property managed by Listing Broker/Landlord, I am prepared to deposit with the Listing Broker/Landlord a security deposit in an amount not to exceed the maximum security deposit permitted by law and in accordance with the risks to the property involved. I understand that the rate of interest on the security deposit is 3% simple interest per annum. If a security deposit is required, I understand that I may make a written request to the Landlord/Agent within fifteen (15) days of the date of occupancy for a list of all existing damages.
I understand that this APPLICATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A COMMITMENT to lease or rent and that a WRITTEN LEASE WILL BE PREPARED if my application is approved. I further understand that the lease MUST BE SIGNED BY BOTH THE LANDLORD AND/OR ITS AGENT AND MYSELF TO BE VALID.
The undersigned applicant affirms under the penalties of perjury that I have read and understand pages 1 through 4 of this application and that my answers to the questions on this application are true and correct to the best of my personal knowledge, information and belief and that I have not knowingly withheld any fact or circumstance which would, if disclosed, affect my application unfavorably.
APPLICANT SIGNATURE
Date:
Check: $
Cash: $
Leasing Broker:
Broker Code:
Leasing Agent:
GCAAR #:
Page 4 of 4
Filling out the GCAAR 1204 rental application form is a crucial step in the leasing process for properties located in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, DC. This application gathers comprehensive information about the applicant, including personal, employment, and financial details. It's designed to help landlords and property managers assess whether an applicant is a suitable candidate for tenancy. By carefully completing this form, applicants demonstrate their seriousness and readiness for the responsibilities that come with renting a property. To ensure a smooth process, follow the step-by-step instructions below.
After completing the form, submit it alongside any required documents and the application fee to the listing broker or property manager. The processing of your application includes a review of your credit and rental history, employment verification, and possibly a background check. You will be informed of the decision once your application has been fully reviewed. Approval of your application is one step closer to securing your new rental home, but remember, it’s not final until a lease agreement is signed by both parties.
What is the purpose of the GCAAR Form 1204?
The GCAAR Form 1204 serves as a comprehensive rental application intended for use in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, DC. Its primary function is to collect detailed information from prospective tenants looking to lease a property. This includes personal data, employment history, financial information, rental history, and permission for the listing broker or landlord to conduct a credit and consumer check. The form ensures that applicants are thoroughly vetted before being considered for approval by the property owner or their designated property manager.
Is the "Earnest Money Deposit" mentioned in the GCAAR Form 1204 refundable?
The "Earnest Money Deposit" mentioned in the form acts as a preliminary deposit indicating the applicant's serious intent to lease the property subject to approval. Whether this deposit is refundable or not typically depends on the outcome of the application process. If the application is not approved by the landlord or the property manager, this deposit is usually returned to the applicant. However, if the applicant is approved but decides not to proceed with the lease without a valid reason, the landlord or agent may retain a portion or all of this deposit as specified in the terms of the agreement detailed on the form.
What happens if the cost of processing the application exceeds the non-refundable fee mentioned in the GCAAR Form 1204?
If the cost of processing the rental application exceeds the non-refundable fee that is collected for the credit and consumer check, the form stipulates that a portion of the "Earnest Money Deposit" may be applied to cover the excess cost. This ensures that the listing broker or property manager can fully cover the expenses associated with vetting the applicant, such as conducting necessary background and credit checks.
How does the GCAAR Form 1204 protect applicants' information?
The GCAAR Form 1204 includes specific provisions that govern the handling of applicants' personal information. Applicants authorize the listing broker or landlord to obtain a credit/consumer report as part of the application process. Furthermore, the applicant consents to the sharing of this information with involved parties for the purposes of the application. The form also specifies that the listing broker or landlord may disclose information contained in the application to consumer reporting agencies, credit bureaus, or other investigative agencies as needed. It emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in the information provided, noting that false or misleading statements may result in the cancellation of a granted lease at the landlord/agent's discretion. This structured approach ensures a balance between thorough vetting and confidentiality, minimizing the risk of unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information.
Filling out the GCAAR 1204 form, a crucial step for rental applicants in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, DC, is a process where accuracy cannot be overstated. Unfortunately, this task is easier said than done, and many applicants fall into common traps that can hinder their chances of securing their desired property. Here, we dissect these pitfalls in the hope of helping future applicants navigate this critical process more smoothly.
One of the most common errors is not providing complete information about the occupants who will be living in the property. This section requires the names and ages of all occupants, a detail crucial not just for occupancy limits but also for compliance with local housing laws. Skimming over this part or leaving blanks can raise red flags for property managers and owners.
Equally problematic is the oversight of accurately detailing the pets that will reside in the property. This part of the application, asking for the type, breed, weight, and total number of pets, is often underestimated. Given the various policies buildings and homeowners associations have concerning pets, this information can be decisive in the approval process.
A crucial area often mishandled is the financial information section. Here, applicants must disclose their current gross annual income, assets, and liabilities. Misrepresenting or underreporting income, accidentally or otherwise, can lead to complications or outright rejection, especially since this data is easily verifiable through credit checks and employment verification processes.
Another frequent mistake lies in the failure to detail previous addresses comprehensively, including the time span spent at each and contact information for previous landlords or agents. This oversight can significantly delay the application process, as it hampers the ability to conduct thorough background checks—a key component in assessing applicant reliability.
Ignoring the specifics about vehicles is another common slip-up. Applicants are asked to list the total number of vehicles, along with the make, year, tag number, and state of registration for each. This information, often seen as trivial by applicants, is important for parking arrangements and compliance with community rules regarding vehicles.
Incomplete or inaccurate emergency contact information can also be a stumbling block. This section, requiring the name, relationship, address, and phone number of an emergency contact, is crucial for landlords in cases of emergencies. Failure to fill this out properly can be viewed negatively.
A subtle yet impactful error is not fully acknowledging and understanding the special lease requirements, such as the military/diplomatic clause or contingencies/special equipment needs. Applicants must read and comprehend these components to ensure their specific needs are met and to avoid future disputes.
The inaccurate representation of the earnest money deposit and other fees is yet another pitfall. This financial commitment, indicating the seriousness of the application, must be accurately reported. Misunderstandings or misrepresentations in this area can lead to financial discrepancies that could jeopardize the application.
Last but not least, applicants often neglect to thoroughly check their application for errors before submission. This final review step is critical to catching any of the previously mentioned mistakes. Ensuring that all information is accurate, complete, and truthfully represented is paramount to a successful application process.
By acknowledging and avoiding these common mistakes on the GCAAR 1204 form, applicants can significantly improve their chances of approval. Remember, the key lies in attention to detail and the willingness to provide comprehensive and accurate information, reflecting reliability and seriousness as a potential tenant.
The process of renting a property involves several steps and requires various documents in addition to the GCAAR 1204 form, which is a rental application for use in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, DC. This form is crucial as it gathers comprehensive information from the applicant, ensuring a seamless transaction for all parties involved. To further facilitate this process, here are five other forms and documents often used in conjunction with the GCAAR 1204 form. Each plays a vital role in protecting the interests of both the landlord and the tenant, ensuring clarity and legal compliance throughout the tenancy.
These documents, along with the GCAAR 1204 form, ensure a clear and enforceable agreement between landlords and tenants. They serve to clarify expectations, responsibilities, and legal obligations, thereby preventing misunderstandings and legal issues down the line. For both parties, understanding and properly utilizing these forms can lead to a stable and mutually beneficial tenancy.
The GCAAR 1204 form, focusing on rental applications in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., shares similarities with other essential real estate documents, though each serves unique purposes within the leasing and rental process. One such document is the Residential Lease Agreement. This legal form outlines the terms and conditions between a landlord and tenant for the rental of property, detailing rent payments, duration of the lease, and property use guidelines. Both the GCAAR 1204 form and a Residential Lease Agreement are foundational to establishing a legally binding relationship between the landlord and tenant, with the key difference being that the GCAAR 1204 is used for application purposes, while the lease agreement solidifies the agreed terms post-application approval.
Another related document is the Rental Application Standard Form, commonly used across various states beyond Maryland and D.C. This form collects prospective tenant information for landlord review, similar to the GCAAR 1204, but may vary in specifics required by different jurisdictions or property management practices. Both forms are initial steps in the leasing process, designed to screen applicants before moving forward with a lease agreement. The main distinction lies in their regional adaptation and specific elements mandated by local law or association guidelines.
The Tenant Background Check Authorization form parallels the GCAAR 1204 in its aim to vet potential tenants. This authorization form allows landlords to legally obtain a tenant's criminal, credit, and rental history as part of the application process. While the GCAAR 1204 incorporates permission for such checks within its template, the background check authorization is more focused, serving solely to gain applicant consent for this investigative phase. Both are critical in assessing applicant suitability but target different stages of the application review.
The Condition Report Form, often used at the start and conclusion of a tenancy, documents the rental property's state to protect both tenant and landlord interests. Although it differs in content and purpose from the GCAAR 1204 form, which does not detail property condition, both are vital for rental transactions. The GCAAR 1204 facilitates entry into a lease, while the Condition Report ensures clarity on property condition, aiding in security deposit determinations and maintenance obligations.
The Cosigner Agreement becomes relevant when a rental applicant might not meet the necessary leasing criteria on their own. This document secures another party's commitment to fulfill lease obligations if the primary tenant fails to do so. While the GCAAR 1204 form collects applicant data to lease property, a Cosigner Agreement provides a solution for potentially risky or unqualified applicants by involving a guarantor, addressing risks from a different angle but with the lease agreement's eventual execution in mind.
The Pet Agreement Addendum to a lease or rental application, like the GCAAR 1204, addresses specific conditions—this time, regarding pets on the property. Where the GCAAR 1204 might note the presence of pets within an application, the Pet Agreement Addendum details the terms, such as pet type, size, and any restrictions or requirements, formalizing the pet policy in the leasing arrangement. This specialized form complements applications by delineating the guidelines for pet ownership during the tenancy.
A Notice to Vacate, significantly different in purpose from the GCAAR 1204, is nevertheless a critical component of the landlord-tenant relationship. This document is used when a tenant plans to leave the rental property or a landlord necessitates the property's vacation. Unlike the GCAAR 1204, which facilitates starting a lease, a Notice to Vacate deals with lease termination, signifying a different phase in the occupancy lifecycle.
The Rent Increase Notice, another distinct form within landlord-tenant communications, informs tenants of upcoming rent adjustments. Unlike the GCAAR 1204 form, which is used initially to apply for rental space, the Rent Increase Notice is a subsequent document, likely introduced mid-tenancy or at renewal periods to adjust the rental agreement terms based on market conditions or lease provisions. Both forms are integral to property management and tenant interaction yet operate at contrasting stages.
Finally, the Security Deposit Receipt acknowledges a tenant's deposit as a safeguard against damage or contractual breach. This financial document, usually provided after the leasing agreement is signed and distinct from the GCAAR 1204 application process, ensures transparency about the deposit's handling and terms. While the GCAAR form signals the beginning of the rental application process, the Security Deposit Receipt secures a financial commitment post-approval, marking a further step in tenant-landlord engagements.
Filling out the GCAAR Form 1204, a rental application for Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, DC, is a critical step toward securing your desired rental property. As such, it's important to approach this process with careful attention to detail. Below are five dos and don'ts to consider when completing this form.
Dos:
Read through the entire form before starting: Ensure you understand what information is required. This will save time and help you gather all the necessary details beforehand.
Provide complete and accurate information: From your personal information to employment details and references, accuracy is key. Inaccurate information can delay the process or lead to application rejection.
Include all required documents: The application might need supporting documents such as proof of income, past rental history, or identification. Make sure to attach everything that's requested.
Review the lease terms and conditions carefully: Understanding the special lease requirements and any contingencies is crucial before submitting the application. It ensures you are aware of what you're agreeing to.
Sign and date the application: An unsigned application is often considered incomplete. Ensure that you sign and date it as required to verify the information provided.
Don'ts:
Don't leave sections blank: If a section does not apply to you, write 'N/A' instead of leaving it empty. This shows you did not accidentally skip the question.
Don't guess on dates or amounts: If you're unsure of specific details, take the time to look them up. Estimates can lead to discrepancies that might raise concerns about your credibility.
Don't ignore the fine print: Be it the agreement to a credit check or the handling of the earnest money deposit, understanding the fine print is vital to know your rights and obligations.
Don't forget to check for errors: Before submitting the application, review it for any mistakes or typos. Errors can adversely affect your application's perception.
Don't submit without making a copy: Always keep a copy of the completed application and any documents you submit. This will be useful for your records or in case the application is lost.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your rental application for the GCAAR Form 1204 is completed thoroughly and accurately, increasing your chances of approval.
One common misconception is that completing the GCAAR 1204 form guarantees the rental property. However, this form is merely an application, not an agreement. The applicant has no leasehold interests in the rental property until there is a fully ratified lease.
Many assume the “Earnest Money Deposit” is refundable under all circumstances. This deposit is often subject to certain conditions, and if those conditions are not met, it may not be fully refunded.
There's a belief that the non-refundable fee covers all application processing costs. In reality, this fee covers initial checks, but should those checks exceed the fee amount, the applicant might be responsible for the difference.
Applicants often think that approval is based solely on financial standing. While finance is a significant factor, landlords and agents consider a comprehensive range of information, including rental history and background checks.
Another misconception is that applicants will be immediately informed about the application outcome. The review process can take time, during which various checks and verifications are performed.
Some people misunderstand the security deposit, thinking it can be used as the last month's rent. Security deposits are intended for potential damages and may not be applied towards the rent unless the landlord specifically agrees.
There's a belief that submitting multiple applications will increase the chances of approval. However, submitting numerous applications, especially with fees, can be costly and may not affect the landlord’s decision.
Many think that providing minimal information might speed up the process. In contrast, omitting details can lead to delays or denial as landlords require comprehensive information to make an informed decision.
It's commonly believed that the GCAAR 1204 form only requires the applicant's financial information. While financial status is important, the form also requests details on employment, rental history, and personal references to create a full profile of the applicant.
Lastly, there's a misconception that the listed lease term is negotiable after approval. While there may be some room for negotiation before the lease is signed, the terms provided in the application are generally expected to be adhered to.
Filling out and using the GCAAR 1204 form, a rental application used specifically in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., is an essential step for prospective tenants looking to rent a property in these areas. Being meticulous and honest while completing this form can greatly influence the outcome of your application. Here are four key takeaways to consider:
Ultimately, the GCAAR 1204 form is a comprehensive application that serves as a foundational document in the leasing process. Applicants are encouraged to approach the form with the seriousness and attention to detail it requires. Understanding and adhering to its stipulations can significantly boost the chances of securing a lease agreement that is favorable to both the tenant and the landlord.
Pool Service Agreement Template - Signatory sections for both Alison Pools, LLC and the customer are included, formalizing the agreement with room for all relevant contact details.
Vcu1 Form - By signing the VCU-1 form, applicants affirm the truthfulness of their responses, underscoring the importance of honesty in the visa application process.