Frequently Asked Questions
These are general answers to general questions. All tenants sign a written lease.
While we have attempted to represent the terms of most leases here, a tenant
should refer to his or her written lease for a final decision on any matter. Nothing in
this FAQ section shall alter the terms of any written lease.
What is your policy on pets?

Our pet policy differs for each apartment, home and duplex we manage. We try to put
the policy in the description of the unit, if you do not see it, please contact us.
.

What is the minimum term of a lease? What happens if I move out before it is up?

Generally, the minimum term of a lease is a year. However, we can negotiate shorter
terms, such as nine months, as the circumstances warrant.

If a tenant is unable to fulfill the minimum term of the lease, there is a
non-refundable $125.00 fee due at the time notice to vacate is given to cover
additional advertising and office work. The landlord will make every attempt to re-rent
the unit once notice is given. But until the unit is re-rented, the tenant remains
responsible for full and prompt payment of rent and utilities.

Can I paint my apartment a different color?

In most circumstances, the answer is no. We do not generally allow any type of
alteration of the premises. While the color you desire may be very appealing to you, it
may not be appealing to the next tenant. It often takes two or three times as much
labor to re-paint an apartment after the tenant has moved out when the color has
been altered.

When is my rent due? What if I am late?

All rent is due on or before the first day of the month. Rent can be paid with a money
order or personal check through the mail, or can be put in our drop slot in the front
door of our office.

Rent is considered late on the second and late fees occur on the fourth day of the
month. Any rent not received by the time our office opens on the fifth of any month is
subject to a $40.00 late fee.

I need to move. How do I give notice?

Any notice to vacate must be given in writing, and must contain your name and
address, and the date you will be completely moved out. You may come to our office
and complete a form or download the form from our website and drop it off or mail it
in.

If you are moving and you have already fulfilled your minimum term, follow these
guidelines to give proper notice:

Moving between March 1 and October 31 of any year (30 day notice) - submit your
written notice to vacate on or before the first day of the month when you plan to move.
Your move out date must be the last day of the month. For instance, if you intend to
move on June 30, you need to have your notice in our office on or before June 1.
There is no grace period, so make sure you have it there on or before the 1st.

Moving between November 1 and February 29 of any year (60 day notice) - submit
your written notice to vacate on or before the first day of the month before you plan to
move. Your move out date must be the last day of the following month. For instance,
if you intend to move on January 31, you need to have your notice in our office on or
before December 1. There is no grace period, so make sure you have it there on or
before the 1st.

If you are moving before the expiration of your minimum term, you should supply our
office with your written notice to vacate as soon as possible, along with your $125.00
early termination fee. Once we have received it, we will attempt to re-rent your
apartment and minimize your liability. However, you must continue to make rent
payments until your unit has been re-rented.

I want someone to move in with me. What should I do?

Remember, your lease specifically prohibits anyone from moving in with you unless
you first clear it through our office. If you decide you want someone to live with you,
that person needs to submit a complete application to our office and include the $30
application fee, along with a copy of a driver's license or other photo ID. If approved,
that person will need to sign the Rental Agreement and Rules & Obligations of
Tenancy, like you did. The rent for your unit may increase. Please contact our office
for more information.

I need maintenance in my apartment. How do I notify you?

Please contact our office by telephone (515-279-2995), e-mail or on the internet. In
any event, make sure you provide your name, phone number, address, and the
specific problem you are having along with permission to enter your residence.

What are the application requirements to rent an apartment?

One application, along with a copy of a driver's license or other photo ID, must be
submitted for each adult that will reside in the unit. The applications ask for
information about where you have worked or gone to school for the past two years,
as well as where you have lived for the last three years. We also ask for the name
and phone number of your previous landlords, so we can contact them for
references. We run a check for criminal background, as well as any previous
evictions or lawsuits by previous landlords.

Our general rule is that the total gross household income must meet or exceed three
times the monthly rent. For instance, if the apartment you are interested in rents for
$400.00 per month, your household income must be at least $1200.00 per month.
This rule is sometimes waived for full-time students at local Universities who are
receiving grants, loans, and/or parental support.