Tenant Services

If you are looking to rent or lease property in Sarasota and Manatee counties, you no doubt, have many questions. Here, for your benefit, you'll find many FAQs (frequently asked questions) that our tenants have posed over the years.

How do I apply to rent a home?

The first step is to call our office to set an appointment with a property manager to view the property you are interested in. Upon viewing the property, you can complete an application with the leasing agent, or you can complete the application right here.  An Agent will collect the application fee and a reservation deposit. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-serve basis determined by the date of the deposit, so know that you will be asked to pay a "Rent Reservation Payment" of $200 at the time you apply. If the application is denied, or if you change your mind within 24 hours of the application being approved, the Rent Reservation Payment is refunded, but only with 24 hours.

Who can submit an application, and what are the requirements?

Adults, age 18 and over, must present photo identification to complete and submit the application. The income minimum is usually 3 times the monthly rent payment of he property you are applying for. It's at this point that we check your with your present landlord and employment references to determine your ability to pay the rent on time and care of the property responsibly.

How much is the application fee?

All individuals or married couples completing an application must make a non-refundable payment of $25 with the application.

What do the application and reservation fees cover?

The application fee will cover the processing of credit, employment and residential history. Additionally, we utilized CBI/Equifax and National Tenant Network services to conduct a criminal background check. The reservation fee is applied to the first month's rent charge.

What if my application is denied?

The Rent Reservation Payment will be returned to you in full but the processing of your the background check has already been completed, so the application fee is not refundable at that time.

When will the application and reservation fees be deposited?

The application fee will be deposited as soon as processing starts. The Rent Reservation Payment will be deposited 24-hours after notification of an approved application and becomes non-refundable at that time. At that point, all other parties interested in this property are informed that is now rented and is being held until the scheduled move in date. If, for what ever reason, you need us to hold the property for more than 7 days, an additional deposit will be required.

How much is the security deposit?

Usually the security deposit is equal to one month's rent. From time to time, some owners may offer special promotions to help lease their property more quickly. The security deposit is paid when you move in and must be paid by certified funds (cashier's check or money order).

Is my security deposit refundable?

Yes, your security deposit is refundable as long as all stipulations in the lease are satisfied, so read that carefully. In short, there must be no damaged to the property caused by the tenants to receive a refund on your security deposit.

Are there any pet fees?

The pet addendum, and any related deposit or fee is negotiated on a case by case basis but usually starts at $250 per animal. Our pet addendum requires that the resident have the property professionally treated for fleas and the carpet professionally cleaned once they move out.

What will I owe at move in?

The balance of the one month's rent and the security deposit are due at move-in regardless of the day of the month, and must be submitted in certified funds. The last month's rent is due as per the lease agreement, but it can be divided into 3 payments after you move in if you have a good rental history and so require it.

What are the standard lease periods?

Generally our leases are for a period of 12 months.

When is the rent due?

Rent is due on the first of each month. A $100 late fee is assessed if payment is not  received by the 5th of the month.

What are the penalties for early termination of a lease?

If you decide to move out prior to the end of the lease term, you are required to give written notice 30 days prior to your move-out day. You must continue to pay rent until your last day, and then will be assessed termination fee that is normally equal to one month's rent. You will also need to sign an agreement to vacate with the Property Manager.

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If you would like to submit and application to rent one of our listings, you can submit your application here, and then follow up with a phone call to our offices during business hours, which are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and 9am to noon on Saturdays. All applications are process as quickly as possible and on a first-come, first-served basis.