Tenant FAQs

• What are your rental requirements?

  • Age Requirement: All applicants must be at least 18 years old
  • Application Process: Everyone 18 and older who will live in the unit must complete a full application
  • Credit Score: Minimum credit score of 600 required (some specific properties may have different requirements based on location and property type)
  • Background Check: Clean rental history with no prior evictions required
  • Income Verification: Total monthly household income must be approximately 3 times the monthly rent
  • Pet Policy: Varies by property - check individual listing details and speak with property manager before applying

• Can you hold a property before I apply?

  No, we cannot hold a property without a completed application and approval. Once you're approved, we can hold the unit with a $500 holding deposit. This deposit secures the property exclusively for you and prevents it from being shown to other applicants. The holding deposit is applied to your move-in costs and is separate from your security deposit.

• Do I pay first month's rent and last month's rent upfront?

  You pay the first month's rent plus security deposit at move-in. We do not collect last month's rent upfront. The security deposit cannot be used as rent payment at any time during your tenancy and must be maintained throughout your lease term.

• How do I pay rent each month?

  All tenants must set up and use our online Tenant Portal for rent payments. You can pay directly from your checking account either as one-time payments or scheduled automatic payments. Credit and debit card payments are available through the portal for an additional processing fee. Cash payments can be made at any 7-Eleven location for tenants who prefer not to pay online.

• I want to get a pet. What's your pet policy?

  Pet policies vary significantly by property and are determined by individual property owners. Some properties allow pets with additional deposits and monthly pet rent, while others have no-pet policies. Always check the specific listing details and speak with a property manager before acquiring any pet. Unauthorized pets may result in lease violation and potential eviction.

• My roommate wants to move out but I want to stay. What should I do?

  If both parties are on the lease and your roommate wants to leave before lease expiration, they must provide 30 days written notice to management and to you. We can create a new lease in your name only if you qualify individually for the rental requirements including income and credit standards. Early lease termination may involve fees as outlined in your lease agreement.

• Is my holding deposit refundable?

  The $500 holding deposit is non-refundable if you decide not to proceed with the rental after approval. However, if you complete the move-in process, this deposit is applied to your first month's rent and move-in charges, so you don't lose the money—it's credited toward your initial costs.

• How do I give notice to move out?

  You'll receive a lease renewal notice at least 30 days before your lease expires. If you choose not to renew, you must provide written notice of your intent to vacate at least 30 days before your lease expiration date. Failure to provide proper notice may result in additional charges or automatic lease extensions.

• Who pays for repairs and maintenance?

  Property owners are responsible for normal wear and tear repairs and routine maintenance including appliance repairs, plumbing issues, HVAC maintenance, and structural problems. Tenants are responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear, whether intentional or accidental, including carpet stains, holes in walls, broken fixtures, or appliance damage due to misuse.

• Do you require cosigners?

  We typically do not accept cosigners and expect all applicants to meet our rental requirements independently. In rare cases, qualified cosigners may be considered for applicants who meet most but not all requirements, subject to management approval and additional documentation.

• How do I apply for a property?

  Visit our website and click "Apply Now" to access our online application portal. You'll need to provide personal information, employment details, rental history, and pay the application fee. All applicants 18 and older must complete separate applications and background screenings.

• What happens during the application process?

  After submitting your application, we verify your employment, contact previous landlords, run credit and criminal background checks, and review all documentation. The process typically takes 24-48 hours for complete applications. You'll receive notification of approval or denial via email with next steps.

• What's included in move-in costs?

  Move-in costs typically include first month's rent, security deposit (usually equal to one month's rent), and any applicable pet deposits or fees. Some properties may have additional costs like cleaning fees or key deposits. We provide a detailed breakdown of all move-in costs upon approval.

• Can I schedule a viewing?

  Yes, we offer convenient viewing options including scheduled individual showings, self-guided tours with lockbox access for qualifying applicants, and virtual tours for many properties. Contact our leasing team to schedule a viewing that works with your schedule.

• What utilities am I responsible for?

  Utility responsibilities vary by property and are clearly outlined in each lease agreement. Typically, tenants are responsible for electricity, gas, cable/internet, and sometimes water/sewer. Some properties include certain utilities in the rent. Check your specific lease for details.

• What's your policy on lease renewals?

  We contact tenants approximately 60-90 days before lease expiration to discuss renewal options. Renewal terms and rent amounts are based on current market conditions and your tenancy history. Good tenants with clean payment histories often receive preferential renewal terms.

• How do I submit maintenance requests?

  Use your online Tenant Portal to submit maintenance requests 24/7. Provide detailed descriptions and photos when possible. Emergency maintenance issues affecting health or safety can be reported through our emergency hotline for immediate response.

• What constitutes an emergency maintenance request?

  Emergency situations include: no heat in winter, no air conditioning when temperatures exceed 85°F, plumbing leaks causing water damage, electrical hazards, broken locks affecting security, and any situation threatening health or safety. Non-emergency requests are handled during regular business hours.

• Can I make changes or improvements to the property?

  Any modifications, improvements, or alterations require written approval from property management before proceeding. This includes painting, installing fixtures, mounting items on walls, or any structural changes. Unauthorized modifications may result in charges for restoration.

• What's your guest policy?

  Guests may visit for reasonable periods, but extended stays (typically more than 14 days in a month) may constitute unauthorized occupancy and lease violation. All guests must follow property rules and cannot interfere with other tenants' quiet enjoyment of their homes.

• How do I report problems with neighbors?

  Document noise complaints or neighbor issues and report them through your Tenant Portal or by contacting property management. We investigate all complaints and work to resolve conflicts while maintaining confidentiality when possible. Serious or repeated violations may result in lease enforcement action.

Have additional questions? Contact Earned Run Real Estate Group at (630)-519-6542 or clientservices@earnedrunre.com. Our leasing team is available to help you understand our policies and find the perfect rental home for your needs.