FAQ

For Clients

 

What is your management fee?

Call us today to speak with a friendly team member and learn more about our property management and real estate services in Macon & Warner Robins, GA.

 

How Long Does It Take to Place a Tenant?

Several factors affect how quickly a rental property is leased, including:

• Time of year: Demand for rentals often changes seasonally.
• Property condition: Well-maintained and move-in ready homes rent faster.
• Rental price: Properties priced competitively based on the local market attract more qualified tenants.

 

 

How much will my property rent for?

At Elite Home Realty & Property Management, we take a data-driven approach to accurately estimate how much your rental unit will rent for. Our process combines advanced tools, market knowledge, and historical data to give you the most reliable recommendation.

Here's what we consider:

• Professional Valuation Tools: We use a trusted subscription-based rental analysis system that provides up-to-date market insights.

 

• Zillow & Market Comparisons: We analyze similar units currently listed on Zillow.com and other platforms to see what tenants are paying right now.

 

• Rental History: We review what units like yours have rented for in the past to identify pricing trends.

 

• Local Market Expertise: With years of experience in Macon, Warner Robins, and Middle Georgia, we understand how location, amenities, and demand impact pricing.

 

When do I get paid for my property?

At Elite Home Realty & Property Management, we make sure your rental income is delivered to you quickly and reliably.

• Fast Processing: Owner payments are typically released from our office by the 12th of each month.

 

• Direct Deposit: Funds are deposited into your account, most often before the 15th, and many times even sooner.

 

• Tenant Payment Dependent: As with all management companies, payment timing depends on whether the tenant has paid rent on time.

This approach helps us protect your investment, keep tenants satisfied, and manage costs responsibly.

 

 

Do I get to approve maintenance and repairs?

We want property owners to feel confident and in control when it comes to repairs and maintenance.

• Standard Maintenance Limit: Repairs costing up to $300 are handled directly by our team to ensure issues are resolved quickly.

 

• Owner Approval for Larger Repairs: Any repair or maintenance over $300 requires your approval before work begins.

 

• Transparent Communication: In most cases, we'll notify you of repairs in advance, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Our goal is to balance efficiency and transparency, ensuring your property is well cared for while you stay in control of major decisions.

 

 

 

What happens if my tenant stops paying or causes trouble?

Elite Home Realty & Property Management take pride in our thorough tenant screening process to place reliable residents in your property. While this greatly reduces risk, we understand that unexpected financial or personal challenges may still arise.

Here's how we handle it:

• Proactive Communication: We stay in close contact with tenants who experience financial difficulties and work with them to find solutions whenever possible.

 

• Owner Involvement: You will be kept informed at every stage, including partial payments, missed rent, or changes in an eviction timeline.

 

• Minimizing Risk: If necessary, we follow legal and professional procedures to resolve the issue quickly and protect your investment.

 

• Focused on Prevention: Our screening process is designed to reduce the likelihood of late payments or disruptive tenants from the start.

With Elite Home Realty & Property Management, you can feel confident knowing that we manage challenges professionally, transparently, and with your best interests in mind.

 

 

 

Do I need to be in contact with the tenant?

No direct communication with tenants is not required. In fact, it's best for all parties if tenants work only through the property management company.

• Avoid Confusion: When tenants communicate with both the owner and management, details can get lost or mixed up.

 

• Streamlined Process: Having tenants contact the management team ensures issues are tracked, documented, and resolved quickly.

 

• Less Stress for Owners: You won't have to deal with day-to-day tenant concerns, we handle it all for you.

We act as the single point of contact for tenants, making the process cleaner, easier, and more professional for everyone involved.

 

 

 

Should I rent to tenants who have pets?

For many property owners, pets can feel like a sensitive topic, but allowing them can actually provide important benefits.

Key Things to Consider:

• Larger Tenant Pool: Nearly 60% of renters own pets, meaning pet-friendly rentals attract more applicants and help reduce vacancy rates.

 

• Increased Rental Income: By allowing pets, you can charge a non-refundable pet deposit or a monthly pet fee, creating an additional income stream.

 

• Stronger Tenant Retention: Pet owners often stay longer in pet-friendly homes since they know finding rentals that accept pets can be difficult.

At Elite Home Realty & Property, we help property owners create clear pet policies that balance protecting your investment with meeting market demand, ensuring you get the best return on your rental property.

 

 

Tenant FAQs

How do the rent payments work?

Rent is typically due on the 1st of each month, unless your lease agreement states otherwise. To make the process simple and secure, we provide an easy-to-use online payment system that allows you to:

• Pay rent anytime, anywhere with just a few clicks
• Set up recurring payments to avoid late fees
• Track payment history for your records

Please Note: For security reasons, cash payments are not accepted.

We make paying rent convenient, secure, and hassle-free, giving you more time to enjoy your home.

 

 

 

When do you increase the rent?

Rent adjustments typically occur at the end of a lease term. However, an increase is not guaranteed, it depends on several important factors.

• Lease Expiration: Rent reviews are usually considered once your lease has ended.

 

• Market Conditions: We analyze local rental market trends to ensure rates remain competitive and fair.

 

• Owner Requests: Property owner preferences are also factored into the decision.

Our goal is to keep rents reasonable and transparent, balancing the needs of both property owners and tenants. Any rent change will always be communicated clearly and in advance, so you have time to plan ahead.

 

 

 

What happens if I can't pay the rent on time?

If you are unable to pay rent on time, it's important to contact our office immediately.

Communication Is Key: Letting us know as soon as possible may help us discuss available options or resources.

Avoid Serious Consequences: Failure to contact management could result in late fees, lease violations, or even eviction.

Elite Home Realty & Property understands that unexpected situations can arise. By reaching out promptly, we can work with you to find the best possible solution and help protect your rental standing.

 

 

 

 

Am I allowed to have a roommate?

Yes, roommates are allowed, but each one must be approved through our application process to ensure compliance with the lease agreement.

Here's How the Process Works:

• Submit a Rental Application: Every roommate must complete a rental application form.

 

• Application Fee: An application fee is required for processing.

 

• Screening & Approval: Each applicant must pass the screening process before moving in.

 

Important: Skipping any of these steps is considered a lease violation and may result in lease termination.

We welcome roommates while ensuring that all residents enjoy a safe, fair, and compliant living environment.

 

 

 

What kind of situations are emergencies?

An emergency is any situation that puts lives at risk or causes serious damage to your home or property. These issues require immediate attention to prevent further harm and keep your household safe.

Examples of Common Emergencies:

• Burst pipes or major plumbing leaks that cause flooding
• Broken heater during winter months
• Electrical hazards such as sparking outlets or exposed wiring
• Gas leaks or strong odors of gas
• Storm damage that threatens the safety or structure of your home

At Elite Home Realty & Property, we take emergencies seriously. If you experience one of these situations, contact us immediately so we can respond quickly and protect your home and family.

 

 

 

What's the pet policy?

We understand that pets are family, but we also want to ensure a safe, comfortable community for all residents. Our pet policy may vary depending on the terms of each lease agreement, so it's important to review the details carefully.

Key Pet Policy Guidelines:

• Notify Us Before Move-In: All pets must be disclosed to our team before you move in.

 

• Pet Fee: A $200 non-refundable pet fee applies.

 

• Lease Compliance Required: Failure to follow pet policy guidelines may result in eviction and additional fees.

 

• Adding a New Pet: Already have a pet but want to add another? Please call our office first. Each request will be reviewed individually based on your lease terms.

Our goal is to create a pet-friendly environment while protecting the comfort and safety of every resident.

 

 

 

Can I change the locks?

Tenants are not permitted to install new locks on their own, as this would violate the terms of the lease agreement.

• Request & Approval Required: If you need to change a lock, please submit a request to our office.

 

• Possible Charges: Depending on the situation, a tenant fee may apply for approved lock changes.

Elite Home Realty & Property ensures that all lock changes are authorized, safe, and compliant with your lease, giving you peace of mind while protecting the property.

 

 

 

Can managers and staff enter my home when I'm not there?

Tenants have the right to privacy and quiet enjoyment of their home.

• 24-Hour Notice Required: Our managers and staff cannot enter your home without providing at least 24 hours' notice, except in the case of an emergency.

 

• Respect for Your Privacy: We ensure all visits are scheduled, authorized, and transparent, giving you peace of mind.

We prioritize tenant safety, comfort, and trust, making sure that any necessary access to your home is handled professionally.

 

 

 

Do I need renter's insurance?

Certain properties require tenants to carry renter's insurance to protect their personal belongings and provide liability coverage.

• Confirm Before You Sign: Always ask a member of our staff if the property you're interested in requires renter's insurance.

 

• Peace of Mind: Even if it's not required, having renter's insurance is strongly recommended to safeguard your belongings and protect against unexpected events.

All residents are well-informed and protected, helping you enjoy your rental experience with confidence.

 

 

 

When do I have to give the notice to vacate?

To end your lease smoothly, tenants are required to provide written notice at least 60 days before the lease termination date.

• Submit Written Notice: Ensure your notice is submitted in writing to our office for proper processing.

 

• Plan Ahead: Providing timely notice helps avoid penalties and ensures a seamless move-out process.

We make lease termination simple, clear, and hassle-free while keeping your rights and responsibilities in mind.

 

 

 

What if I have a maintenance or repair issues?

Elite Home Realty & Property makes reporting maintenance and repair requests quick and easy.

• Submit Requests Online: Log into your tenant portal and complete a maintenance request.

 

• Prompt Response: Once submitted, a team member will contact you promptly to address the issue.

 

• Reliable Service: Our goal is to ensure your home stays safe, comfortable, and in top condition.

We are committed to providing efficient, professional, and timely maintenance support so that your rental experience remains stress-free.