FAQ

We frequently get asked the same questions, so hopefully we can answer your question here:

1. Is there an application fee? - No, there is no application fee. I have many resources at my disposal to thoroughly check you out, and I do.

2. What if I have a felony, misdomeaner, or some other crime on my record? - This depends on the crime, the length of time which has passed, and the severity of the crime. We will not rent to you if we feel that you are a danger to your neighbors, or your neighbor's belongings.

3. Does everyone who will live in the unit need to fill out an application? - Yes, all persons living in the unit will need to fill out an application, unless they are a dependent minor. We will need to know the number of total persons living in the unit, minors included. The rent does not increase based on occupancy. As per City of Ames code, only 3 unrelated tenants are allowed per unit, unless otherwise noted.

4. Are pets allowed? - For the most part our housing units are pet friendly. The exception is 325 Welch Ave Apartments.

5. Is there pet rent or pet deposit? - There is no pet rent, but there IS pet deposit. Pet deposit is usually equal to one month's rent and is addition to the security deposit. Pet deposit is refundable if there is no pet damage.

6. Wow! Pet deposit is equal to one month's rent?! Why is it so much? - Things like carpeting, padding, dry wall, and wood trim are expensive... So is refinishing hardwood floors. While you may not think keeping Fluffy's litter box in a closet is a bad idea - bad things happen with pet urine and small spaces. Same thing with Fido being left alone in a bedroom too much or too often. We've seen it all, and the extra month's deposit gives us the ability to rent these places to you as pet friendly - because if there is damage, we have the means to fix it. Don't worry - responsible pet owners who properly take care of their pet and their rental unit can expect to recieve their pet deposit back if there is no damage.

7.What if I just sneak a pet in? - Sneaking pets in is a bad idea. We almost always find out in short order, and then you forfeit half of your security deposit, and we have to ask you to remove Fluffy or Fido. If you don't remove them, you face eviction. If you do work with us and remove the pet, you still have to pay in the additional 1/2 of pet deposit which you forfeited to bring the pet in.

8. What if I'm caught lying on my application? - Then we won't rent to you. Not now. Not never. We always value people who are honest.

9. When can I schedule an appointment to see apartments, houses, or duplexes? - After the second week of February. I keep a contact list all year long, and I'll be more than happy to put you on the list - but we don't show until after February 14th. This lets our tenants enjoy six months of their home quietly, without being interrupted frequently for veiwings. Yes, it can be a hassle for impatient would-be renters, but if you become our tenant we will treat you with the same curteousy and respect.

10. What if I, or my room mate, will be out of state/country for that semester - is there any way we can see the places earlier? - Yes, we do make exceptions. But please remember that we try to make these exceptions very infrequently, and we won't let you sign a lease until February anyway. See #8 if you think you can bend the rules just because you're impatient.

11. What utilities and extra's are included with rent? - In apartments, most utilities are included (internet, parking, water/sewer, garbage and either gas OR electricity). In duplexes and houses, tenants are responsible for their own utilities & services.

12. Who do I contact for viewing, scheduling maintenance, questions, comments, or to mention how great these FAQ's are? - The Property Manager. You can reach me at any of the numbers listed below or at mark@rentames.com

13. How long do your leases run? When do they start/end? Do you do short-term leases? - Our leases begin (barring any unforeseen circumstances) from August 1st through July 31st. They are a year leases, we do not do short term leases. If you are interested in subletting, we can arrange that. Please see our Tenant & Applicant Information page for more information on subletting, the fees involved, and the risk to the original tenant.