Skip to Content
Local introductory image welcoming visitors to Real Property Management Key Response

Tenant Leasing FAQ’s

Looking for answers about leasing with us? You’re in the right place. Our Tenant Leasing FAQ covers everything you need to know—from deposits and application requirements to pet policies, utilities, and payment options. Whether you’re a first-time renter or an experienced tenant, this guide is designed to make the process clear and stress-free so you can feel confident every step of the way.

What is your pet policy and how much are the fees?

Pet policies vary by property and can be found in the property description at rpmkeyresponse.com/houses-rent.

We believe pet fees should be based on risk factors—not a “one-size-fits-all” approach. A small dog with a responsible owner should not pay the same as a large dog with a less responsible owner.

We use a third-party service, PetScreening.com, to evaluate each pet. You’ll submit your pet’s information and required documentation, and the service assigns a score from 1–5 paws (5 = highest). Fees are then assessed per pet as follows:

  • 1 paw: Pet may not be approved
  • 2 paws: $600 initial pet fee + $60/month pet rent
  • 3 paws: $450 initial pet fee + $45/month pet rent
  • 4 paws: $350 initial pet fee + $35/month pet rent
  • 5 paws: $250 initial pet fee + $25/month pet rent

If you have more than one pet, your second pet may qualify for a discounted fee depending on the score.

How much is the deposit?

For well-qualified applicants, the deposit is typically equal to one month’s rent. The exact amount is listed in each property description at rpmkeyresponse.com/houses-rent.  The deposit must be made by certified funds ( cashiers check, money orders, or wire transfer ).

If my application is approved, what money is due and when?

Once approved, you typically have 48 hours to:

  1. Complete pet screening (if applicable)
  2. Sign the lease
  3. Pay the deposit ( must be certified funds )

The deposit to hold the property is equal to one month’s rent and is nonrefundable. On your lease start date, it becomes your security deposit. All other amounts (first month’s rent, lease administration fee, pet fees, etc.) are due by your lease start date, which is listed on the first page of your lease.

How long will you hold the property after approval?

You must set your lease start date (when rent begins) within 14 days of approval. We rarely hold a vacant property longer than 14 days without rent, but exceptions may be made.

If you cannot meet the 14-day requirement:

  • Option 1: Delay your application until you are within the 14-day window. (Note: The property may be rented to someone else in the meantime. Application fees are nonrefundable in this case.)
  • Option 2: Withdraw your application before we begin processing it. You may transfer it to another property or receive a refund of your application fees, minus a $5 processing charge.

*Application fees are non-refundable once processing has begun. The only circumstance in which a refund will be issued is if you withdraw your application before processing starts. Processing begins when we start reviewing and verifying the information provided to determine whether the application will be approved.

What are your qualification requirements?

Requirements are listed in each property description at rpmkeyresponse.com/houses-rent.

I have credit challenges. Can I still be approved?

Applications are scored on multiple factors—credit history, credit score, income, landlord references, and more. We cannot give a final answer until your application is fully processed.

Will rent be prorated if I move in mid-month?

Yes. We require a full month’s rent upfront at move-in. Your next payment will be prorated based on your lease start date.

Example: If you move in August 15, you’ll pay a full month’s rent at move-in, but your September 1 payment will be reduced to cover only August 15–31.

What utilities are included in the rent?

Utilities vary by property and are listed in the property description at rpmkeyresponse.com/houses-rent.

Who is responsible for lawn and landscaping?

This varies by property. Unless stated otherwise in the property description, lawn and landscaping care are the tenant’s responsibility. Details for each particular property can be found at rpmkeyresponse.com/houses-rent.

What payment options will I have as a tenant?

Once you move in and your account remains in good standing, you can easily make payments through your online portal by e-check, credit card, or debit card. You may also set up recurring payments to be automatically drafted each month for convenience. Please note that certified funds are required for all payments made prior to move-in.

The Neighborly Done Right Promise

The Neighborly Done Right Promise ® delivered by Real Property Management, a proud Neighborly company

When it comes to finding the right property manager for your investment property, you want to know that they stand behind their work and get the job done right – the first time. At Real Property Management we have the expertise, technology, and systems to manage your property the right way. We work hard to optimize your return on investment while preserving your asset and giving you peace of mind. Our highly trained and skilled team works hard so you can be sure your property's management will be Done Right.

Canada excluded. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises.

See Full Details