Move-In Costs Explained: First, Last, Security Deposit & Application Fees
By Zach Curtis, licensed agent, Realty Hub, SL3664129. Updated October 18, 2026. General information, not legal advice.
The rent is only part of what you need on move-in day. In South Florida, landlords commonly ask for the first month's rent plus a security deposit, and often the last month too, before you get keys. Here is each piece, and how to plan for it.
The usual pieces
- First month's rent. Almost always due before move-in.
- Last month's rent. Many landlords collect it up front. It is advance rent for your final month, not a damage deposit.
- Security deposit. Often equal to one month's rent; it can be higher depending on the landlord and your application.
- Application fee per adult, set by the landlord or listing agent.
- Condo association fees if the building requires approval (application fee, and sometimes an association deposit). See how condo approval works.
- Pet deposit or fee, if the building and landlord allow pets. Assistance animals are not charged pet fees under fair housing rules.
- Utility setup. Electric and internet are usually in your name; some providers ask for a deposit depending on your credit.
- Renter's insurance, which many leases require.
- Agent fee: when you rent through RentedFirst, you pay no renter fee. Our compensation comes from the listing side.
A worked example
For a unit at $1,500 a month (the lowest asking rent in our feed today, 1042 Foster Road #1-2, Hallandale Beach), if the landlord asks for first, last and a one-month security deposit:
| First month | $1,500 |
| Last month | $1,500 |
| Security deposit (1 month) | $1,500 |
| Before fees | $4,500 |
|---|
Then add application, association and any pet fees listed for that unit. Every listing is different: ask for the exact move-in amount in writing before you apply.
How Florida handles your deposit
Florida's landlord-tenant law (section 83.49, Florida Statutes) controls how deposits and advance rent are held. Landlords covered by the notice rule (it does not apply to those renting fewer than five units) must tell you in writing, in the lease or within 30 days of receiving your deposit, where it is held. After the lease ends, a landlord who makes no claim must return the deposit within 15 days; a landlord who intends to claim part of it must send written notice within 30 days, and you have 15 days to object in writing. Keep your move-in photos and a copy of the lease.
Protect your money
- Pay only after you have seen the unit (in person or a live video tour with the agent) and have a lease or written approval.
- Pay the landlord, the landlord's broker escrow account, or the closing attorney named in the lease. Never pay a stranger by gift card, crypto, or a cash app request.
- Confirm wire instructions by calling a phone number you looked up yourself. Wire fraud is common in real estate.
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