Tenant FAQs
Answers to your frequently asked questions
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What are your rental qualifications?
To apply for one of our rental properties, complete the Rental Application promptly by clicking “Apply Now” next to the available property. Here’s what you need to know:- Submit the application fee with a major credit card or in person with cash, check, or money order. Applications won’t be processed until the fee is paid.
- All adults aged 18 and older must submit their own application and fee. Anyone moving in who is 18 or older must complete the application process.
- Verify your income by uploading, faxing (941-296-8580), or emailing (relaxbilling@gmail.com) your 2 most recent pay stubs. If this is not possible, provide accurate contact information for income verification.
- Provide accurate rental history, including contact information for landlords from the past 3 years. Notify your current landlord of your intent to vacate.
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What are your screening policies?
Our screening policies include:- Occupancy Guidelines: Two persons per bedroom plus one per home. For example, 1 Bedroom = 2 Persons, 2 Bedroom = 4 Persons, etc. These standards do not apply to individuals protected under Federal Fair Housing Guidelines relating to familial status.
- Credit Check: We request a credit report from Equifax. No minimum credit score is required, but no prior evictions, landlord debt, or open bankruptcies are allowed. A score of 600 or above means no additional deposits; below 600 or no credit may require additional deposits.
- Criminal Background Check: A background check will be conducted. Felony convictions for illegal drug manufacture or distribution in the last 2 years disqualify you. Convictions for violent crimes, dishonesty, or similar matters in the last 5 years may lead to denial. Misdemeanors are not grounds for denial.
- Income: Proof of income is required. Rent should not exceed 33% of the combined gross monthly income. Conditional approval may be granted if rent is between 34% and 45% of income, possibly requiring additional deposits.
- Rental History: Good rental history is required with contact information for your last 2 landlords. Proof of rental payments is not required if you owned a home for the last 6 months.
- Pets/Animals: Maximum of 2 pets allowed, with specific breeds prohibited. A pet deposit is required, except for service animals. No more than one 30-gallon or larger aquarium is allowed.
- Smoking Policy: Smoking is strictly prohibited inside any unit and outside any multi-dwelling unit.
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What are the automatic declines?
Applicants will be automatically declined for:- Prior evictions within the last 5 years
- Unable to verify identity
- Unable to verify income
- Open bankruptcies
- Insufficient income (rent exceeds 46% of combined gross monthly income)
- Landlord collections in the past 5 years
- Overdue debt of $10,000 or more (excluding student loans or medical bills)
- A felony conviction for illegal drug manufacture or distribution in the last 2 years
- Misrepresentation or falsification of the application
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How do I apply for a property?
To apply:- Go to our Rental Search page to browse available properties.
- Find the property you are interested in renting.
- Click apply and complete the steps provided.
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Do you have a move-in checklist?
Yes, here’s your move-in checklist:- First Month's Rent & Security Deposit: Pay these to secure your lease. Confirm amounts in advance.
- Move-in Date & Inspection: Scheduled at lease signing.
- Utilities: Place all utilities in your name immediately following lease signing to avoid losing access. You’ll be responsible for fees to reconnect utilities.
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Do you have a move-out checklist?
Yes, here’s your move-out checklist:- Notice of Intent to Vacate: Provide written notice according to lease terms.
- Property Condition: Return home to rent-ready condition, including:
- Cleaning: Declutter, clean surfaces, vacuum and mop floors, clean bathrooms, and wipe windows and mirrors.
- Landscaping & Outdoor Areas: Remove trash and debris from outdoor spaces.
- Repairs: Fix any damage, patch holes, repaint stained walls, and replace broken glass.
- Security Deposit: A final inspection will be conducted. Any issues will be repaired using your deposit. We’ll send a link to provide your new address for deposit return. Remember, the deposit cannot be used to cover the final month's rent.
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Can you hold a place before I apply?
No, we cannot hold a property without a nonrefundable security deposit. Properties will continue to be shown until your application is processed. If your application is approved but another applicant is chosen, you can apply for other properties. Your approval is valid for 90 days. -
Do I pay the first month’s rent and last month’s rent with my security deposit?
You need to pay the deposit to hold the home and the full first month's rent to receive the keys. Last month’s rent can be spread out over 3 months if you qualify. If you move in mid-month, the second month’s rent will be prorated. Rent is due on the 1st of each month. -
How old do you have to be to apply?
All tenants must be at least 18 years old. -
Is the deposit refundable?
The deposit to hold the property is nonrefundable if you change your mind. The security deposit is refundable after you move out, provided the home is left in good condition. Minor wear and tear is expected. -
Who needs a cosigner?
We do not accept co-signers. All individuals responsible for rent must be on the lease. Parents or others who are not living at the residence but are responsible for the lease will also be held accountable. -
How do I pay rent?
Rent can be paid through your online portal via check or credit card. For cash payments, a barcode will be provided for use at various retail stores, including Walmart, 7-11, CVS, and Ace Hardware. -
I want to get a pet. What should I do?
Contact your property manager before getting any pets. You need to apply and pay a deposit for any pets. Many rentals do not allow pets, and prohibited breeds due to insurance restrictions cannot be accommodated. -
I want to move out, but my roommate wants to stay. What should I do?
Contact your property manager. There is a form to release you from the lease, allowing your roommate to stay. You will forfeit the security deposit and last month’s rent. -
What if I want to get a roommate?
Any new occupant must complete our application and be approved before moving in. We screen roommates to ensure they are responsible, but we cannot assist with removing a roommate if issues arise. -
My lease expiration is coming and I want to move out. What should I do?
Contact your property manager. Submit your notice through the portal and follow the instructions provided via email for the next steps. -
Who is responsible for paying for repairs & maintenance requests?
The owner covers normal wear and tear and maintenance. Tenants are responsible for damages resulting from negligence. Common issues include plumbing problems caused by flushing non-flushable items like wipes.