Leasing Process
From the day we begin to the day your new tenant is settled in, here is exactly what happens and what to expect at each step.
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1
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Rent Ready Walkthrough |
We complete an initial walkthrough of your property and produce a Rent Ready report. The report separates required items (habitability and condition standards) from recommended items that improve market appeal. We share the report with you after the visit and ask that required items are addressed before marketing begins. You can review our full standards on the Rent Ready Guidelines page.
We do not begin advertising until the property meets our rent-ready standards. Delays in completing required items directly delay your marketing start date.
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2
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Getting Rent Ready |
Based on the walkthrough report, the property is prepared to meet our rent-ready standards. This typically includes a professional deep cleaning, carpet cleaning, wall patching and paint touch-ups, and any deferred maintenance repairs. Homes that are clean, fresh, and in good condition photograph better, show better, and attract stronger applicants. We can coordinate vendors on your behalf. Our Owners Handbook includes typical pricing and scope so you know what to expect.
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3
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Professional Listing and Photography |
We create a professionally written listing with high-quality photos. The listing highlights your property’s strongest features and presents it competitively against active rentals in the area. Strong presentation shortens days on market and draws a higher caliber of applicants.
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4
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Rental Pricing and Market Analysis |
We research current rental comps, review active listings in your submarket, and analyze demand to recommend the right asking rent. Pricing accurately from day one reduces vacancy time and attracts better applicants. We share the analysis with you before we go live.
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5
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Digital Marketing and Syndication |
Your listing is syndicated directly to the platforms where renters search, including Zillow, Trulia, HotPads, and Apartments.com. We do not use the MLS for rentals. Our direct-to-consumer approach eliminates agent commissions, speeds up lead response, and keeps our fees competitive. Learn why on the Why We Don’t Use the MLS page.
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6
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Showings and Lead Management |
We use a self-tour system that allows qualified prospects to schedule and complete showings on their own schedule, including after hours and on short notice. Every prospect is verified before access is granted and each showing uses a unique, time-limited access code tracked in real time. Self-tours mean more showings, faster leasing, and no extra cost to you. Learn more in our FAQ.
We track viewing volume, interest, and showing feedback throughout. If the market signals a need to adjust pricing or presentation, we act quickly.
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7
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Rental Application |
Interested applicants complete a full rental application through our online portal. All occupants 18 and older are required to apply. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. We do not hold the property without a completed application and screening results in hand.
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8
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Tenant Screening |
Every application goes through our full screening process. We verify credit history, criminal background, eviction history, employment, income, and prior rental references. Our criteria are consistent, documented, and Fair Housing compliant. We require verifiable income of at least 3x the monthly rent and look for a strong pattern of on-time payments and positive rental history.
We do not approve applications to meet a timeline. We approve applications that meet our criteria. Placing a qualified tenant protects your investment and reduces the risk of non-payment and early termination.
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9
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Lease Execution |
We prepare and execute a Florida-compliant residential lease on your behalf. The lease covers all required disclosures, including flood history under SB 948, applicable HOA rules and addenda, pet addenda if pets are approved, and the Resident Benefits Package terms. We handle this with full authority under your management agreement. You do not need to be involved in lease signing.
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10
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Owner Notification |
Once the lease is executed, we notify you with a summary of the tenancy. This includes the tenant’s move-in date, lease term, and monthly rent. You will also see the lease reflected in your Owner Portal within AppFolio.
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Getting Ready for Move-In |
Before the tenant takes possession, we confirm all move-in requirements are complete. This includes collection of first month’s rent, security deposit equal to one month’s rent, the $75 lease generation fee, and any applicable pet fees. We also confirm the tenant has set up utilities in their name and provided proof of renter’s insurance, both of which are required before keys are released.
Keys are not released until all move-in funds are collected and utilities and renter’s insurance are confirmed.
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12
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Move-In Documentation |
We complete a detailed move-in documentation report with written notes and photos throughout the property. This establishes the documented condition of your property at the start of the tenancy and is the baseline we use at move-out to distinguish normal wear and tear from damages the tenant is responsible for.
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13
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New Tenant Walk-Through |
We meet the tenant in person at the property on or around move-in day. We orient them to the home, cover how systems operate including HVAC filters, water shutoffs, and garage openers, review their responsibilities under the lease, and answer questions. Starting the tenancy with clear communication sets expectations early and reduces maintenance calls down the road.
Blog
Rental Screening Process: Why Document Verification Matters
Every rental application tells a story. The problem is that not every story is true. A strong rental screening process [...]
