The steps I highlight below are critical to the complete leasing process, especially if you have never leased before. I will guide you through this leasing process step-by-step with the "Real and Achievable" goal of you acquiring a leased home that meets your needs, desires, and monthly price range. This is a highly collaborative process and a team effort.

1. Determine the maximum monthly payment you can afford
2. Reserve up front monies
• First and last months rent (double maximum monthly payment)
• Security deposit (typically 1+ months monthly payment; highly dependant on credit scores; low credit score may translate to higher security deposit; typically 100% refunded if home is returned in same or better condition when leased minus any outstanding fees owed)
  
• If you own a pet, Pet deposit (typically $250-$500+; may or may not be refundable)
• Key deposit (Some homes have community amenities such as fitness center, pool, BBQ area, etc.; refundable deposit ranges from $100-$150 per key
3. Determine lease period; typical lease period is one-year; two-years may be possible; short-tem leases may be possible but may result if higher monthly payments
4. Identify key information by answering the following
• When do you need to be in the home?
• What is you desired city? What is your 2nd and 3rd choices?
• How many bedrooms? bathrooms?
• Identify any limitations on number of floors (1 story, 2 story, or 3 story)
• Do you need a large or small yard?
• Do you have a specific elementary, middle, or high-school preference?
• Do you have any special requirements or needs
5. Arrange for an office interview (it's very important I understand your requirements; takes approximately 30-60 minutes)- I will prepare a comprehensive listing of available "homes for lease" meeting your requirements; a credit report will likely be required; non refundable cost is $25 per person
   
6. Review list; identify "homes for lease" you wish to visit; schedule an appointment to show you the homes (typically 1-3 hours per session)
7. BRING YOUR CHECK BOOK! (It's important you are ready to pay the required monies once negotiations are complete)
8. Repeat steps 6 & 7 until we find the home (estimated 1-3 weeks)
9. Submit completed lease application for owners acceptance. Make a reasonable lease offer (I'll review your options so you are successful in getting your offer accepted without over paying; low-ball offers are a waste of everyone time; don't quibble over a few dollars
10. Lease application accepted! - I will coordinate all of the necessary paperwork and required monies; be prepared to move on agreed upon date
11. All required monies are due prior to taking possession of the property; NO ACCEPTIONS!
12. IMPORTANT: A pre-move in inspection is HIGHLY recommended for your protection; I will guide you through this process; a move out inspection will occur when you vacate the property
13. Move in and enjoy!

NOTE: Typical leases require 30-day written notice to terminate early; an early-out penalty fee may be enacted otherwise you are obligated to pay your monthly payment until the property is leased. Please consult with me before taking any actions. Please contact me if you would like to extend the lease an additional year so the appropriate paperwork can be completed. Once you move out of the property, the landlord has 20-days to evaluate the property and return any deposits owed.