Tenant FAQ

Visit our Search page to browse all available properties. You can filter by:

• Price range (minimum and maximum rent)
• Bedrooms and bathrooms
• Property type (apartment, house, condo, etc.)
• Amenities (parking, pool, gym, etc.)
• Location and distance from your work
• Pet-friendly properties

Use the map view to see properties in your desired neighborhood.

Yes! Click the heart icon on any property listing to save it to your Saved Listings. You can access all your saved properties anytime from your dashboard. This helps you compare properties and return to your favorites later.

The typical rental application process is:

1. 1. Find & Apply: Browse properties and submit an application through Howardhomes
2. 2. Application Fee: Pay the $20 application fee (covers background check and credit report)
3. 3. Background Check: Landlord reviews your background, credit, and rental history
4. 4. Landlord Decision: You'll receive approval, conditional approval, or rejection
5. 5. Lease Signing: If approved, you'll sign the lease and pay the security deposit
6. 6. Move-In: Receive keys and move into your new home

Visit your Dashboard or Applications page to track all your rental applications. You can see:

• Status of each application (pending, approved, rejected)
• Property details and rent amount
• Application submission date
• Expected decision timeline
• Next steps and required actions

The $20 application fee covers the cost of processing your application, including:

• Background check and criminal history review
• Credit report and financial verification
• Rental history verification
• Employment verification
• Application processing and documentation

Note: This fee is non-refundable but is separate from the security deposit.

A security deposit is an amount of money held by the landlord as protection against tenant damage:

• Deposits are typically 1 month's rent
• Deposits must be returned within 15 days of move-out
• Landlords can deduct only for damages beyond normal wear and tear
• You'll receive an itemized list of any deductions with receipts
• Take photos on move-in and move-out to protect yourself

Always review these key items before signing your lease:

• Lease start and end dates
• Rent amount and payment due date
• Security deposit and any other required deposits
• Utilities (which ones you're responsible for)
• Pet policy and any pet fees
• Late fees and consequences of late payment
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Early termination penalties
• House rules and restrictions
• Landlord's contact information

Pro Tip: Never hesitate to ask questions or request clarification. Ask for a copy of the lease to review at home before signing.

If you discover maintenance issues or damage, follow these steps:

1. 1. Report Immediately: Contact your landlord in writing (email or text) with photos and details
2. 2. Document: Keep copies of all communication and photos
3. 3. Emergency: For emergencies (water leak, broken locks), contact the landlord immediately and proceed if necessary
4. 4. Timeline: Landlord must make emergency repairs within 24 hours and non-emergency within 7 days

Never deduct repair costs from rent without written landlord approval (except in emergencies in some states).

Yes! Use the Messages feature to communicate with landlords about properties, ask questions, or schedule showings. All messages are tracked in one place for your convenience and protection.

A complete profile helps landlords evaluate your application faster. Your Profile should include:

• Verified contact information
• Employment and income details
• Rental history references
• Background check results
• ID verification

A verified profile increases your chances of approval and may help you qualify for better properties.

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth move-out:

1. 1. Notice: Give written notice according to your lease (typically 30-60 days)
2. 2. Final Walkthrough: Schedule a walkthrough with the landlord to document the property condition
3. 3. Clean: Leave the property clean and in good condition
4. 4. Photos: Take photos of all rooms to document move-out condition
5. 5. Forwarding Address: Provide your forwarding address for security deposit return
6. 6. Utilities: Arrange to disconnect utilities in your name
7. 7. Follow Up: Request itemized deposit accounting within 15 days

We're here to help! You can reach our support team in several ways:

• Contact Form - Submit your question or concern
• Email: support@howardhomes.com
• Phone: (555) 123-4567
• Response Time: We typically respond within 24 business hours