Moving to Southwest Florida often happens fast. One minute you're job hunting or planning a transfer, and the next you need a place in Fort Myers by Monday. The demand for immediate housing here is higher than ever, especially during our busy winter season when snowbirds and new residents compete for space.
In Florida, "move-in ready" usually means the unit is vacant, cleaned, and has utilities capable of being turned on within 24 hours. While some options include furniture, most local apartment rentals focus on immediate availability with functional AC and appliances. Expect to pay a pro-rated first month's rent and a security deposit ranging from $200 to one full month's rent.
When you see this term, don't assume it includes everything down to the forks and spoons. Fully furnished corporate housing is a specific (and more expensive) category. For standard apartments for rent Ft Myers Florida, "move-in ready" simply means you can sign the lease and sleep there tonight. The water and power are the big hurdles. In Lee County, getting Florida Power & Light (FPL) to switch service usually happens the same day if you call before noon, but you need to check this before signing.
The I-75 corridor near Daniels Parkway and the revitalized Downtown River District offer the highest inventory of immediate units. Areas like Gateway and the Forum typically have newer complexes with efficient application processes. If you need speed, look for communities built after 2015, as they often use digital leasing systems that approve applications in under 48 hours.
We often tell renters to look near the Treeline Avenue area if they need fast access to the airport and the interstate. These communities are built for working professionals who move frequently. Conversely, older neighborhoods off McGregor Boulevard might have charm, but the private landlords there often take 5-7 days to process manual background checks. If time is your enemy, stick to the larger, professionally managed communities in South Fort Myers.
With digital applications, you can often get keys within 24 to 48 hours at professionally managed communities. Private landlords may take 5-7 days for background checks. To speed this up, have your proof of income (pay stubs or bank statements) and ID ready before you tour apartments for rent Ft Myers Florida.
We've seen dozens of applicants lose their dream unit because they had to go home to find a W-2. In our experience, the fastest move-ins happen when the renter brings a cashier's check for the deposit to the tour. This proves you're serious and allows the leasing team to take the unit off the market immediately. Also, keep in mind that applying on a Friday afternoon might push your approval to Monday, so try to submit applications early in the week.
Expect to pay between $1,800 and $2,600 monthly for a move-in ready two-bedroom unit in Fort Myers. Application fees usually run $50-$100 per adult, and administrative fees average $200-$300. You'll likely need to pay these upfront to secure the unit immediately, so having $3,000-$5,000 available in liquid funds is smart.
Renters are often surprised by the upfront costs. In addition to the first month's rent, many communities require a security deposit. If your credit score is under 650, that deposit might jump from a standard $500 to a full month's rent. Also, factor in utility connection fees. FPL and Lee County Utilities may charge setup fees ranging from $25 to $100 on your first bill. Knowing these numbers helps you budget correctly and avoid shock at the leasing desk.
Choosing a ready unit eliminates the 30-day wait typical of traditional leases. This helps during Florida's hurricane season (June-November) or when relocating for a specific job start date. You avoid double-paying for temporary housing like hotels, which can cost $150+ per night in Lee County during peak season.
Beyond the money, it saves you from the stress of living out of a suitcase. We recently helped a family who relocated from the Midwest; they calculated that renting a move-in-ready apartment saved them $2,000 compared to staying in an extended-stay hotel for three weeks while waiting for a house closing. Immediate occupancy gives you a home base to settle into your new job or explore the beaches without a checkout time hanging over your head.
Landlords in December 2025 strictly require 3 months of pay stubs showing 3x the rent, a government ID, and often a rental history verification. With the current market tightness, having these printed or saved as PDFs on your phone speeds up the approval. Missing a document can delay your move-in by 2-3 days.
Your Quick-Move Checklist:
Having this folder ready puts you ahead of 90% of other applicants searching for apartments for rent Ft Myers Florida.
Finding a place doesn't have to be a month-long struggle. If you're ready to make a move, we have options that fit your timeline. Call Millennium Apartments at (239) 312-5461 to discuss our current availability and specials. We’re here to help you get settled in your new home fast.