FAQs
Q: What does your service cost?
A: Nothing. We are a completely free service to you. Our business model is based on pounding the pavement, finding you the ideal apartment, and helping you through the process. Our profit comes from agreements with rental properties - there are absolutely no obligations, no fine print, no costs to you, ever.
Q: Then how much do you get paid?
A: The landlord’s pay us a portion of the first month’s rent - these agreements range anywhere from 20%-100%. Landlords lose tremendous amounts of money by letting their units stand vacant. We find you a great apartment. The landlord fills a space. We are paid a finder’s fee. It’s a win/win/win arrangement.
Q: When should I start my apartment search?
A: You should begin looking for your new apartment 30-45 days before you‘d like to move in. However, if you’re running short on time call us - we have expansive listings, and are able to expedite paperwork and agreements to meet your time constraints. We are also happy to drive you to look at listings around the city until either you or we drop from exhaustion (it‘s yet to come to that).
Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: An appointment is not required; however, it is strongly recommended to optimize your time. Having an appointment guarantees you an available agent with no wait. It allows our agents more time to break down and research your particular requests.
Q: If I decide to apply on the spot are there any deposits or fees that need to be paid?
A: Deposits vary depending on apartment owner. Your agent will inform you of the deposits for each apartment as you visit them.
Q: What do I need to bring with me?
A: Bring a camera and notepad to document your thoughts on the apartments. They will be helpful at the end of the appointment in assisting you with your decision. Also, bring a checkbook or credit card to put down a deposit on the unit you like. Two recent pay stubs will help speed up the application process. A copy of your drivers license is also needed.
Q: What if I have spotty or bad credit?
A: That’s ok: a co-signer can help alleviate this problem. A co-signer is another person with the available funds to cover your rent payments should you fall into financial hardship and be unable to meet the terms of your lease. Your co-signer must understand that if you cannot cover the rent payments, they are legally responsible to pay on your behalf.
Q: What if I don’t have a cosigner?
A: Take a deep breath. This can also be worked around. Generally, extra monies may be requested to secure the apartment. Also, if you can prove additional funds in a bank account, that will generally help sway the decision in your favor.
Q: How long will it take for the application to be approved?
A: The application process takes two to five business days. Your agent or an Apartment Vigilantes staff member will call and notify you of approval.
Q: What if I cannot come and see the apartments before I move in? Can I still rent through you?
A: Yes! It’s called a site-unseen. Apartment Vigilantes management will work with you and send you pictures of properties in the area you‘re looking in, as well as paint you a realistic picture of the amenities and surrounding neighborhood.
Q: I have a pet…can you find me something?
A: Yes. Cats are rarely a problem and most dogs are allowed. Apartment Vigilantes works with management companies and private owners alike who accept both. In some cases, you may be required to pay a “pet deposit” which is generally a very reasonable number.
Q: When do I sign my lease?
A: You will sign your lease 48-72 hours after your application has been approved.
Are we missing something? Have a question? Please contact us. We do not bite and will not try and hook you into anything. We will provide simple, straightforward, and honest answers to any and all questions you may have.