Prospective Renter FAQs

 

How do I apply for a home?

When you have found a home that you would like to apply for, click here to apply online. Be sure to select the home you are interested in and fill out the application form completely.

Application Information:

• You will need your credit card when applying online. An application fee of $30 is collected when you apply.
• Application fees are non-refundable.
• All lease offers are presented for approval.
• Once you have applied online and been approved, your application is valid for any of the homes that we lease.

 

What are the fees?

There are no up-front fees to give you information or to show homes to you. Once you decide you would like to lease one of our properties, there is a $30 application fee to run a credit and background check.

 

What is the typical length of a lease?

The majority of our leases are for one year or longer. If you are looking for something shorter than a year, please contact us to discuss your options.

 

Do you allow pets?

Pets are allowed in some of our rental homes. Please check the individual home listing for details. An additional pet deposit and monthly rent fee may apply. 

 

Who is responsible for paying the utilities?

Generally, you are responsible for the utilities in the home you lease. Please see the details in the individual home listing for any utilities or additional amenities that may be provided.

 

How much is the security deposit?

A security deposit equal to one month's rent is required.  An additional deposit for pets may apply. We can only accept a money order or cashier's check for the security deposit.

 

What do I need to pay before I move in?

One month's rent, security deposit, and pet deposit and fee (if applicable) will need to be paid in full before you receive the keys to your new home. The security deposit and first month's rent must be paid on separate checks or money orders.

 

What are your credit score, background, and criminal screening requirements?

Click here for a full list of screening criteria.

 

What if my credit score is low?

Please refer to our screening criteria.

 

Do you accept housing vouchers or Section 8?

Some of our homes qualify for housing vouchers / Section 8. Please refer to the individual listing for details or contact us for more information.

 

Should I have renter's insurance?

Yes. You should definitely have renter's insurance. It is inexpensive, and most car insurance companies can add it to your existing policy. Click here for an article explaining the benefits of having renter’s insurance

 

 

Current Renter FAQs

 

When is rent due and how do you accept payment?

Rent is due on the first day of the month. Rent is late after the 5th. Late fees will apply.

You may pay your rent online through the Resident Portal by bank draft or credit card. Please Note: paying by bank draft is free, but there is a 3% fee to pay rent by credit card.

 

What is the Resident Portal?

The Resident Portal gives you easy access to manage your living experience online.

Welcome to the Resident Center - Buildium

You can make online payments and keep track of your payment history, set up recurring rent payments, and submit maintenance requests from your mobile device or computer.

 

Is there a mobile app for the Resident Portal?

Yes! Residents can make payments, submit maintenance requests, contact their property manager, and more with just a few taps.

Resident Center App - Buildium

The Resident Center mobile app is available through the Apple App Store and Google Play.

     

 

 

Maintenance FAQs

 

How do I submit maintenance requests (work orders)?

Please submit all maintenance requests and work orders through the Resident Portal for fastest resolution.

 

 

Moving Out FAQs

 

Can I use my security deposit to pay my last month's rent?

Per your lease agreement and landlord tenant laws, you may not apply your security deposit to your last month of rent.

 

What do I need to do before final move out?

Click here to download a move out checklist.

 

 

Troubleshooting Problems FAQs

 

What do I do if I have a maintenance or repair request?

To ensure the fastest resolution, please submit all maintenance requests online in the Resident Portal.

 

What if I have an insect or rodent problem?

Minor insect problems should be treated with sprays (such as Raid). This would include ants, spiders, and roaches.

If the pest problem persists, please submit a maintenance request online in the Resident Portal.

 

What if my plumbing is backed up or won't drain?

You are responsible for keeping all sinks and toilets open and free-flowing. After 5 days of occupancy, the renter is responsible for any damage or stoppage unless it was caused by mechanical failure of the plumbing system or roots in the sewer lines.

If you are unable to fix the problem, please submit a maintenance request online in the Resident Portal.

 

What if I have no power in the kitchen, bathroom, or garage electrical outlets?

Most homes are now equipped with GFI switches. These switches are made to interrupt the flow of electricity and are used in areas of the home where electricity and water might come into contact with each other. If you have no power in the outlets in the bath, kitchen or garage, find the reset button that is popped out and push it in. Sometimes several outlets are "hooked" to one switch. It may be that the outlets in the bathroom have no power but the reset button that is popped out is in the kitchen.

Please check all of the reset buttons before submitting a maintenance request.

If you are unable to fix the problem, please submit a maintenance request online in the Resident Portal.

 

What if my garbage disposal stopped working?

Garbage disposals are not for bones, greasy items, meat or large quantities of vegetable peelings. If the motor buzzes, turn off the switch. Clear the disposal by turning the blade backwards with a wooden spoon handle. You might need to push the reset button on the bottom or side of the disposal (this is usually a small red or yellow button). If the unit turns easily but not with the power, submit a maintenance request.

If you are unable to fix the problem, please submit a maintenance request online in the Resident Portal.