Renter FAQs
Whether you’re a first-time renter or a returning resident, we want your leasing process to be simple and transparent. Explore the questions below for quick answers about applications, deposits, utilities, and more.
Is my application fee refundable if I can’t find a property?
No, all application fees are non-refundable.
Does my co-signer need to apply?
No, for student properties we ask for the applicant to provide a parent or grandparent’s information to guarantee the lease. If you want to use someone else as your co-signer, they will need to apply.
What do I put in employment box when filling out my application if I am a student?
Just type in Student.
What if I don’t have a social security number?
Add 9 0’s. 000 - 00 - 0000
How will you know who my roommates are?
It is very important to list the names of your roommates when asked on your application. This will help us stay organized!
Will my lease start on my desired lease start date?
We will try our best to accommodate your preferred lease start day. Please keep in mind our properties come available throughout the entire summer, you may have to sign a lease that starts or ends a month extra than you need.
How do I prelease a property for the 2027/2028 school year?
Get your entire group to apply under the property that you are interested in. Once the entire group is approved, you are first in line for that property if the current tenants do not renew. We normally give until the end of September on our off-campus houses and five-bedroom condos. If the tenants give notice, we’ll inform your group and get leases out. If they renew, we’ll have you find another property on our website. If we have no other applications in first place your group will then take first place.
How long do have to sign my lease?
Normally we require a lease to be signed within two days as other people may be waiting on the property.
Do I need to pay my deposit when I sign my lease?
We do not require the deposit to be paid when you sign your lease. However, it does need to be paid 30 days before your move-in date.
Do I need my group to apply before I get a lease to secure a property?
Many of our properties require a group to rent. The entire group needs to apply, be approved and then we send the leases out. If someone does not sign the entire group may lose the property. Some properties do not require a full group to lease. Let us know the property you are interested in, and we determine if you can apply and secure just a room or need to lease with a group.
If I have a negative rental reference, can I still rent?
Normally, we do not accept applicants with a negative rental reference. A negative rental reference refers to someone that refused to pay rent at a previous property and may have been taken to court and have an outstanding balance. If the balance is paid in full, we may be able to accept your application with a guarantor and a double deposit. This is at management’s discretion.
Does my apartment come furnished?
Most apartments in communities come furnished with a sofa, chair, coffee, end table, bed, chest of drawers and sometimes a desk with chair and dining table. Off campus houses are unfurnished.
What utilities are included?
In many of our apartments we include electric up to $150 and water up to $75. Most off-campus houses and certain floor plans do not include utilities. Check the property you are interested in to see if utilities are included.
Do you take pets?
Many of our owners are pet friendly. However, you should check on the property you are interested in. We often accept two pets in an apartment, but do not take aggressive breeds or puppies. We do charge a $500 per pet deposit, which is fully refundable if there are no damages at move out.
What about my ESA (emotional support animal) or my assistance animal?
Yes, we accept your ESA or assistance animal with the proper letter from someone you have a therapeutic relationship with. No deposit is required.
Do you offer separate leases?
In most student properties we do offer individual leases. You are responsible for your rent and any damages to your room and the common area you share.
What if I need to get out of my lease?
We offer a lease assignment program. You need to sign the proper form, pay a $500 nonrefundable fee, and we will begin to advertise and help find a qualified tenant to rent. Once the new qualified tenant signs a lease, you will be released from your lease. If you are currently living in the property, you will be responsible for any charges incurred to ready the property for the new tenant.
How will I receive my lease?
You and your cosigner will both receive emails from us via our software AppFolio. This email will invite you to create an account, and you will be able to sign the lease agreement as needed. It is very important not to forward your invitation email to your cosigner. They must go through their own invitation in their email for the system to recognize the correct signer.
What should I do if the power goes out at my rental?
First, check outside to see if your neighbors are also without power. If the outage appears to affect the surrounding area, contact your local power company directly to report the outage and get updates. Please do not contact Rocktown Realty to report a power outage, as the utility company is responsible for restoring service.
What should I do with the food in my refrigerator or freezer?
Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Only open them when necessary. Limiting the amount of time the doors are open will help keep food cold longer and prevent premature spoilage.