Frequently Asked Questions

1) How can I submit a rental application?
Each adult living at the property will need to apply. You can apply in person with a paper application or on our website Rental Application Information - Five Star Property Management (rentfivestar.com) digitally. You can also pay your application fee and submit your proof of income and identity in the online application.

2) Is it possible to apply for a property that I haven’t viewed?
Yes, though it is recommended to see the property in person or have someone look at it for you. The photos serve as an approximate representation. Applicants should check whether the property matches their expectations and needs. Once an application is submitted, the application fee is not refundable, but the application is good for any of our properties.

3) How can I visit a property?
You can schedule an appointment by clicking the “Schedule a Showing” button on each listing. It can automatically show our availability to pick a time convenient for you. After receiving a request, we’ll quickly organize the showing. Our goal is to make sure you’ll find your dream home.

4) Do I have to sign a lease?
Each adult occupying the home will need to sign the lease. We sign our leases online for the ease of reading and signing it at your convenience before move in. A new lease is between 10 and 14 months. It states the responsibilities of both sides covering the whole contract term.

5) What is your security deposit policy?
A Holding Fee can be placed on a property to hold it once all adult occupants have applied and provided proof of income and identity. The holding fee is only refundable if the applications are denied. If the applications are approved, it is applied to your security deposit and is refundable after completion of the lease agreement and move out.

6) How do the rent payments work?
Rent is due on the first each month. We offer a variety of payment options: ·  Pay Online - Use your Resident Web Access to make payments, submit maintenance issues, and view leases. ·  Drop Box - We have a drop box on the South/Lewis St side of our building that is available 24/7 to drop your payment in. ·  Mail - You can use the post office to send your mail to 158 S Main St. However, it is important to allocate delivery time as rent received after the 1st is considered late. Don’t forget to indicate your address on the memo. Please note that cash payments aren’t accepted due to security reasons.

7) When do you increase the rent?
Rent is not automatically increased when a lease agreement renews. Rental market conditions dictate whether a rent adjustment is necessary. If an adjustment is necessary, proper notification is always given.

8) What could I do to waive the late rent fees?
We aren’t able to waive late rent fees. Our late fee policy complies with Fair Housing Laws. We treat all residents equally.

9) What happens if I can’t pay the rent on time?
Immediately contact us to set up a payment arrangement. We will work with you to find an acceptable plan.

10) Am I allowed to have a roommate?
Each occupant living in the home will need to be approved and sign the lease. The potential roommate can apply in person with a paper application or on our website (give link) digitally. They can also pay the application fee and submit proof of income and identity in the online application. Moving the roommate in before completing these steps violates the lease and could lead to termination.

11) What kind of situations are emergencies?
Emergencies threaten human lives and/or cause property damage. For example, a burst pipe flooding the home and a broken heater during the cold season are emergencies. Human life threats should be called to 911 and property damage should be called to our office. Following the office phone prompts will contact our after-hours emergency line.

12) What’s the pet policy?
Each property has its own pet policy. It is important to respect the owner’s wishes and only bring an animal onto the property if it has been approved in writing. If you would like to have an animal at the property, please contact our office for approval. We will process every request separately depending on the lease terms.

13) Can I change the locks?
No, you would violate the lease agreement terms. However, if you would like to submit a request via email, we may approve it. We would require you to use our vendor and supply us with 2 key copies for each lock.

14) Can managers and staff enter my home when I’m not there?
If you submit a maintenance request, the vendor will call you to schedule a time that works for both of you. If there’s a need to enter the property to prevent property damage or lease enforcement, we will do so during reasonable hours to prevent property damage. However, if the reason for entering the home can be scheduled ahead of time, we will always work to do so first.

15) Do I need renters insurance?
Renters insurance is highly recommended. It is very affordable and helps protect your personal belongings. For example, if the roof leaks and damages your electronics, the owner’s insurance would pay to fix the roof, but not your electronics. Renters insurance would replace the electronics. However, renters insurance is not required.