[eloisant]

Even though, when I was living in US and rent from an appartment complex, it took them 5 minutes to clear my credit check on their computer.

Even if the author did in fact miss a payment, why should they be able to keep $250 from an tenant they rejected?

[kodt]

Non refundable application fees are normal. Usually to pay for the credit check. $250 is high though.

[kevinoconnor7]

Usually application fees are separate. Non-refundable deposits are fairly common for taking an apartment off the market while the application and lease are processed.