01
Set your budget
Most California landlords look for gross income around three times the monthly rent. Know your ceiling before you tour anything.
Rental Resources
The Mashney renter guide
Six steps from budget to keys — written for Los Angeles, Orange County, Temecula, and San Diego renters.
02
Gather your documents
Photo ID, two most recent pay stubs or an offer letter, two months of bank statements, and past landlord references. Strong files get approved first.
03
Tour with a strategy
Compare parking, utilities, pet policy, and commute — not just the rent. Your Mashney advisor lines up tours in efficient blocks.
04
Apply the same day
Competitive units go in 24–72 hours. Submit a complete application with your documents attached the moment you find the right home.
05
Read the lease carefully
Check the term, rent increase language, repairs, subletting, and early-termination clauses. Being attorney-owned, we read leases with a different eye.
06
Protect your deposit
California caps most security deposits at one month's rent. Document condition with photos at move-in and request a pre-move-out inspection later.
Renter questions we hear most
- How much is a security deposit in California?
- For most residential rentals the deposit is capped at one month's rent. Small landlords may be allowed slightly more in limited cases.
- Can my landlord raise the rent whenever they want?
- No. Many California rentals fall under statewide rent-cap and just-cause rules, which limit annual increases and require proper notice.
- Do I need renters insurance?
- Most leases require it. It is inexpensive and covers your belongings plus liability — your landlord's policy does not.
- Does Mashney charge renters a fee?
- Our rental concierge terms are explained upfront before you tour. No surprise fees, ever.