Application Information
Filling out our application online is easy and allows you to be quickly attached to a listing and Topher Realty LLC to be notified of the arrival of your application in our system!
Need a paper application? Give us a call: 406-443-3555 or click to Book Appointment
Wonder what our Qualification Criteria is? Click on the button below!
Occupancy Standards
- Occupancy is based on the number of bedrooms in a unit. (A bedroom is defined as a space within the premises that is used primarily for sleeping, with at least one window and a closet for clothing)
- Two persons are allowed per bedroom.
- Exceptions are made for children under age two. Children under age two are allowed as a third occupant when the child resides with the parent or other adult(s) maintaining proper legal custody.
Applicant FAQ's
How Much Does An Application Cost?
Topher Really currently charges $60 for applications. This cost the following checks/reports and the time for our staff to work on each application.
What our background/Check checks include:
Nationwide Credit Check
Rent Payment History
Landlord-Tenant History
Multi-State Criminal History
Sex Offender Registry
OFAC and Watchlist Registry
ID Verification
Income Verification
Statewide Criminal History and Court fee(s)
What is your Income Requirement?
We ask for two times the amount of rent in gross income.
What is your Credit Requirement?
The following FICO score may be the determining approval or denial factor as follows:
a. 700+- approval with completed application and supporting documentation.
b. 600-699 – manual review consideration landlord may require additional criteria.
c. 599 & under- denial with review consideration
Please note that if your credit report indicates collections from utility companies, telecommunication companies, internet/cable providers, and/or previous landlords/property managers, these collections must be paid before approval consideration
How long does it take to process my application?
The average processing time is 72 hours.
Weekends and Holidays will increase that timeline since we are closed.
What might disqualify an application?
Incomplete application, previous evictions, active collections from landlords, credit score below 599 or no credit, insufficient income, unsatisfactory references, active bankruptcies, no aggressive breeds allowed, excessive vehicles. Additionally, criminal records are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may be grounds for denial.
Do I need a Co-Signer?
You may need a co-signer if you are a first time renter or have little/no credit history or rental history.
You may also choose to do a higher security deposit rather than a co-signer
Co-signer requirements:
1) need to have a credit score of 700 or greater and verifiable income.
2) Co-singers income must be at least three times the amount of the rent.
3) Co-signers income cannont come from retirement, pensions, SSI, etc.
How does my Co-Signer Apply?
Your co-signer will be emailed the co-signer application and forms from the Topher office if a co-signer is required.
Co-signer requirements:
1) need to have a credit score of 700 or greater and verifiable income.
2) Co-singers income must be at least three times the amount of the rent.
3) Co-signers income cannont come from retirement, pensions, SSI, etc.
What if I have Pets?
Please look at our pet page under Resident Resources! Please check the listing for if it will accept pets.
Is there a seperate application for LIHTC?
We will start with the same Topher Realty application as our other units then proceed with the other paperwork for LIHTC upon application approval.
Do you have a Waitlist?
You can apply to our General Application to get on the Waitlist for the next avalible unit that fits your criteria/needs
Do you accept housing Vochers?
Topher can accept vouchers but it does depend on the unit, voucher type, and you must have income outside of your voucher.
Low Income Tax Credit Units (LIHTC)
Topher Realty has 36 1-3 bedroom Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) housingunits which are regulated by the federal government. These units are limited avaliblity.
Amenities include a off‐street parking, a playground, and a washer/dryers laundry facility on-site. Snow removal and lawn care services are provided. There is a small storage space for each apartment. There are garages that can be rented as well at limited avaliblility.
Income qualifications apply, but the rent is NOT calculated based on income. Tenant-based Housing Choice Vouchers (or similar) are welcome and encouraged.
Current Gross Income Limits as of 2024*:
ONE PERSON- $43,740
TWO PERSONS- $49,980
THREE PERSONS- $56,220
FOUR PERSONS- $62,460
FIVE PERSONS- $67,500
*These income limits are subject to change every year. Please call the office to find current numbers and check for your household's limits.
Please keep in mind when applying that we must verify all income and assets, collect landlord references, and run credit/criminal background checks before we can approve a move-in.
There are a limited number of subsidized apartments at Shadow Mountain.
In order to be considered for these, you must apply!
Topher Realty does not have a Waitlist these units are first come first serve.
725 Poplar St Helena MT 59601
info@TopherRealty.com | Phone: 406-443-3555 | Fax: 406-449-6181
Hours: By appointment only
