Renting FAQs

Question # 1. 
What kind of background checks do you do?  Is damaged credit a big issue?

 We will a number of checks including: credit, criminal, utility bill, reverse phone, tax record, landlord history, and employment.  We follow the guidelines provided by Texas landlord/tenant law, and the credit bureaus.  Good rental history is weighted heavily.  Damaged credit alone will not disqualify you.  For more information on screening criteria, please see "How to Lease", or call our office.

Question # 2
How long will you hold a property off the market for me?

After your application is approved, you have 2 days to bring in your deposit and sign your lease.  The lease start date must be within 15 days of lease signing.  For example, if you sign your lease on the 15th of June, your lease would begin no later than the 1st of July.  Your first month's rent is not due until the day the lease starts. 

Question # 3
Can I pay rent online?  What about with a credit card, or cash?

You are able to pay rent online for free.  You can also set up auto-draft payments.  You will automatically be provided the option to do this at move- in.  We do not accept credit cards or cash.

Question # 4
 I have a maintenance problem, but I'm afraid if I report it I'll get charged!

Do not fear retaliatory actions from the landlord!  Report the problem.  If it is something that was directly caused by your or your guests, you are responsible for the repair.  However, not repairing the issue can often cause more damage to the property, which means even more cost to you down the road.  Many times this fear is unjustified.  Homes are built with many, many components that wear down over time and with use.  Property code prohibits tenants being charged for items that wear-out or break during the normal course of use.  You will find that most landlords appreciate your diligence with regards to the care of their home, and will very often make maintenance exceptions for exceptional tenants. 

Question # 5
Can I paint the house, or do other modifications/repairs myself?

In most cases NO, not without prior approval.  If repairs are done improperly, you would be held liable for the cost to correct.  If the owner has to repaint the walls because of a bad paint job, you would be responsible for the cost.  There are some exceptions, so please call our office if you have questions concerning painting/repairs/modifications. 

Question # 6
Can I deduct my security deposit from the last months rent?

NO.  Your security deposit cannot be used as rent.  If you do this, you can be held liable for several other charges in addition to the rent.

Question # 7
How do I get my deposit back?

Please visit the "Move Out Process" page for step by step details.

Question # 8
When is rent late?

Rent is considered late after the 5th of the month.  Mailed in payments will be evaluated by the post-mark, i.e. mail post-marked by the 5th will not be considered late.  Late fees will be detailed in your lease.

Question # 9
I've run into unexpected financial difficulties.  Will the landlord work with me?

We understand that from time to time financial issues may arise.  The owner is under no obligation to make rent concessions.  However, we understand that issues may arise from time to time.  In general, if you have a "curable" issue, the ability to cure, and a close and definite time frame to cure, the owner may be willing to make payment accomodations.  Please call our office to discuss.

Question # 10
What are your hours?  What if I have an after-hours maintenance emergency?

We are open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 6 pm.  When you sign your lease, you will be given an after-hours number in case of an emergency maintenance issue.  Please refer to the Tenant Maintenance Instructions for what issues constitute an emergency.