Most move-in costs fall into four buckets: an application fee when you apply, a security deposit to hold the apartment, your first month's rent before you get the keys, and any pet or optional fees that apply to you. Knowing which one is due when is what keeps lease signing free of surprises.
Budgeting for a move is stressful enough without guessing at the total. The good news is that move-in costs are predictable once someone lays them out for you, line by line.
At Millennium Apartments, we would rather you know the full number before you apply. If you want the current amounts for a specific home, contact our leasing team at (239) 312-5461 and we will walk you through it.
Usually an application fee, paid when you submit your application. It covers the cost of processing it, which typically includes checking your background, credit, and rental history.
The application fee is generally non-refundable, even if you change your mind. That is why it helps to tour first and apply once you are confident about the home. If two people will be on the lease, ask whether each adult applies separately, since that can double the fee.
Have your paperwork ready before you start. Recent pay stubs or an offer letter, a photo ID, and contact information for past landlords make the process move faster. If you are new to Ft Myers and starting a job here, a signed offer letter often helps show income before your first paycheck arrives.
Some communities also charge an administrative fee at approval. Ask about it up front so it does not show up as a surprise later.
The security deposit is money held to cover damage or unpaid rent after you move out. It is usually due once you are approved, and paying it often holds the apartment for you until move-in day.
Florida has clear rules for how deposits are handled. Under Section 83.49 of the Florida Statutes, your landlord must tell you in writing, within 30 days, where your deposit is being held. After you move out, it must be returned within 15 days if there is no claim against it.
If the landlord does plan to keep part of it, they have 30 days to send written notice explaining why, and you get time to respond. Knowing that ahead of time makes the deposit feel a lot less like money you are giving away.
Take photos of every room on move-in day. That record is the best way to make sure your deposit comes back to you later.
First month's rent is usually due before you get your keys. If you move in partway through the month, it may be prorated, so ask how that works for your date.
Pet fees come next if you have a furry roommate. Millennium is a pet-friendly community with a dog park, and pets typically come with their own deposit, fee, or monthly rent. Ask about the policy for your pet's breed and size before you apply.
Then there are the optional costs. Garages and storage units are available to rent here, and some renters add one for a car, a kayak, or holiday decor. Ask whether any services, such as valet trash, carry a monthly charge, and whether renters insurance is required.
Remember the costs that are not ours, too. Depending on the address, electric service in Lee County comes from either FPL or LCEC, and some providers ask for a deposit to open a new account. Call before your move date, because nobody wants to start a Southwest Florida summer without air conditioning.
Ask for an itemized list before you sign, then add your moving and setup costs on top. A full picture lets you plan instead of hoping it works out.
We once worked with a first-time renter fresh out of college. She was budgeting her move carefully because she wanted to buy some new furniture once she moved in. She asked great questions, and we worked with her to itemize every expense moving in would involve. We are happy to say she could still afford the new couch.
That is the goal for every move. Our community at 9505 Blackwood Circle sits near Gulf Coast Town Center, so furniture shopping after move-in is close by, too. Ask us about current specials, since those can change your total at signing.
When you are ready, start your application online. Have questions first? Reach out to Millennium Apartments or call our leasing office at (239) 312-5461, and we will help you plan every dollar.