FAQs

General Information

Whats the difference between an Apartment and Condo?

Condos are typically owned by an individual person or LLC. Apartment buildings are entirely owned and operated by a professional management company.

Do you work with Apartment Buildings?

Yes and please let our team be the first point of contact with the leasing office. We can help you with any building and will escort you on your first tour.

Do I have to sign a representation agreement?

Yes and while our team has been using representation agreements for years the National Association of Realtors has implemented a practice change requiring MLS participants to enter into a written agreement prior to touring a property. This change goes into effect August 17, 2024 for all Realtors®. Representation agreements ensure clarity and transparency for all parties involved.

Why do you only show 5 properties on a tour?

With so many options, moving to Miami can be overwhelming. I’ve found that touring 5 properties is the sweet spot—any more, and it becomes exhausting and confusing, making it harder to decide. My goal is to help you find your perfect place efficiently, using a proven process that has worked for over 100 people who’ve moved to Miami.

Leasing Process and Requirements

What documents should I have ready to submit an offer?

• Photo ID
• Proof of Funds (Last 3 pay stubs, job offer letter, tax return, 1099)
• Recent Credit Report (Credit Karma, FICO, etc. Not a screenshot. Must have your name on it)

How much do I need to make to qualify?

You need to make 3x the monthly rent. If rent is $2,000/month you need to show you make $6,000/month before taxes. Proof of income is required with every offer.

Who pays the Broker compensation?

In Florida most landlords may offer compensation. We will seek compensation from the landlord or landlords broker: however, in the event the landlord is not offering compensation you will be responsible for our agreed upon compensation outlined in your representation agreement.

Do I need to be a US citizen in order to rent?

No, but background checks can take a little longer to process for foreign nationals so that may mean that your approval can take longer than the standard processing time (usually 2 weeks)

Do I need a co-signer/guarantor?

If you foresee any issues with your application being approved please be upfront and ask about this option. It is very easy to add a co-signer/guarantor to a lease and we can go over how that changes the income and other requirements for you.

Does my roommate/partner need to be on the lease?

Yes. In the State of Florida anyone over the age of 18 must be on the lease and submit an application. No exceptions.

Furnished Units and Sub-Leasing

I see a Furnished Apartment can I rent it unfurnished?

The answer is almost always no. If you don't want the furniture for a particular unit that means the landlord would have to pay to store it somewhere else. That would actually raise the costs associated with the lease. Meaning that would not be an opportunity to negotiate a lower price.

Can I sub-lease the apartment/condo? Can I rent it out on Airbnb, etc?

The answer is almost always no. If you own a property you can do airbnb and other short-term rental options. But as a tenant it is very rare (almost impossible) that you can do this.

Financial Considerations

How much money do I need to move in?

When renting a property in Miami an amount equal to three months rent plus any building fees are required on or before move in day. The three months rent is usually represented by First Month, Last Month and a one-month security deposit. Some condo buildings may also require a common area deposit. We will make sure you are aware of all fees before signing the offer.

What is the Escrow Deposit?

The Escrow Deposit is the initial money due with your accepted contract to lease. For your protection we are partnered with Attorneys Key Title LLC, a reputable closing company to hold your deposit.

Condo Approval Process

My offer was accepted, now what?

Once your offer has been accepted you will make the initial escrow deposit to take the unit off the market. A lease will be prepared (usually by the agent representing the landlord) and then executed by all parties. With the executed lease the next step would be to apply with the building management office. I will guide you through this process as the process vary from building to building.

What should I do once I've been approved?

I will advise you if these apply but here's what you may expect:

• Schedule your Orientation (if Condo or HOA)
• Reserve the elevator (if condo)
• Set up utility service to be activated on the date of walk-through
• FPL.com (electricity)
• Cable/Internet (usually scheduled after walk through)

What do I bring to the walk-through

Any remaining money for move-in. I will provide you a break down of exactly what you need but remember these must be in certified form: cashiers check, money orders or wired to the landlord prior to walk through.

During the Lease

Who do I contact for any repairs/issues during the lease?

In apartment or rental buildings there is usually an online app that allows you to schedule service requests. In a condo building your landlord or the landlords agent is your point of contact for all repairs.

When do I get my security deposit back?

Under Florida law, the landlord has 15 days to return your deposit if there aren't any deductions for damages.

What if I need to break the lease?

Every lease has an early termination clause. In most cases you can expect to pay a 2-month penalty for breaking the lease early.

Ready to find your place in Miami?