Frequently Asked Questions

Long-Term Rentals

  • We use a thorough tenant screening process to ensure reliability and maintain the quality of our properties. This process includes:

    • Background Checks: We conduct criminal history checks to ensure a safe living environment for all tenants.

    • Credit Checks: We review applicants’ credit scores and payment history to assess financial responsibility.

    • Income Verification: We verify that applicants meet our income requirements.

    • Rental History: We contact previous landlords to verify rental history, including on-time payments and property upkeep.

    This comprehensive process helps us select tenants who are financially stable, responsible, and respectful of our property and community rules.

  • We prioritize a smooth and efficient process for addressing maintenance requests to ensure tenant satisfaction and property upkeep. Here’s how it works:

    • Submitting Requests: Tenants can submit maintenance requests through via email, text, or by calling.

    • Assessment: Once the request is received, we assess its urgency and scope. Emergency issues are addressed immediately, while non-urgent requests are scheduled based on priority and availability. Once assessed the owner will be notified and actions will be discussed and approved.

    • Scheduling Repairs: We coordinate with trusted and licensed vendors or in-house maintenance staff to schedule the repair at a time convenient for the tenant.

    • Tenant Communication: We keep tenants and owners informed throughout the process, providing updates on the repair timeline and expected completion.

    • Follow-Up: After the repair is completed, we follow up to ensure the issue has been fully resolved to the tenant’s satisfaction.

    Our goal is to address maintenance concerns promptly and professionally, minimizing disruptions to tenants while protecting the value of the property.

  • We strive to make rent collection simple and transparent for tenants while keeping property owners informed. Here’s how we manage the process:

    • Rent Collection:

      • Tenants can pay rent through agreed upon payment methods (e.g., ACH, credit/debit cards, Venmo, Zelle, etc…).

    • Payment Deadlines:

      • Rent is due on the 1st of each month, with a grace period as agreed upon in the lease agreement.

      Late Payments:

      • If rent is not received by the end of the grace period, a late fee is applied as per the lease terms.

      • Tenants are notified of the missed payment via email, phone, or written notice, and we provide clear instructions for resolving the balance.

    • Owner Notifications:

      • Property owners are notified of rent collection statuses through monthly financial reports or immediate alerts for any late payments.

    • Follow-Up with Tenants:

      • For persistent late payments, we work with tenants to set up a payment plan if appropriate.

      • If necessary, further action is taken in accordance with local landlord-tenant laws to protect the property owner’s interests.

    Our approach ensures efficient rent collection, open communication with tenants, and consistent updates to property owners, so everyone stays informed and satisfied.

Short-Term Rentals

  • We take a hands-on approach to managing bookings and preventing double bookings. Here’s how we ensure a seamless process:

    • No Instant Booking:

      • We do not use "Instant Booking" on any platform. Instead, every booking request is manually reviewed and approved to ensure it aligns with our policies and your preferences as the property owner.

    • Manual Calendar Management:

      • Once a booking is approved, we immediately update our centralized master calendar to block the corresponding dates on all other platforms. This ensures no overlap or double bookings occur.

    • Frequent Calendar Reviews:

      • We conduct regular checks of the booking calendar to verify all entries are accurate and up to date.

    • Thorough Guest Screening:

      • Before approving any booking, we review the guest’s profile, previous reviews, and the purpose of their stay to ensure they are a good fit for your property.

    • Owner Updates:

      • As the property owner, you will receive updates on all approved bookings and availability, so you’re always informed about your property’s schedule.

    By avoiding "Instant Booking," carefully screening guests, and manually managing the booking calendar, we provide personalized service that prevents double bookings and protects the integrity of your property.

  • We take cleanliness and preparation very seriously to ensure every guest has an excellent experience. Between stays, we follow a comprehensive cleaning and maintenance process, which includes:

    • Professional Cleaning Team: We partner with trained cleaning professionals who thoroughly clean and sanitize every area of the property, including high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.

    • Laundry Services: All linens, towels, and bedding are laundered with high-temperature settings to ensure hygiene.

    • Restocking Essentials: We restock supplies such as toiletries, paper products, and kitchen essentials, ensuring everything is ready for the next guest.

    • Inspection Checklist: As part of this process, we video record the state of the property upon entering to document its condition, providing back up for the condition the property was left by the guest. After cleaning, our team conducts a detailed inspection to ensure the property meets our quality standards and is guest-ready.

    • Repairs and Maintenance: If anything needs repair or replacement, we address it promptly so guests can enjoy a seamless stay.

    This process ensures that every guest arrives to a spotless and well-prepared space that feels like home. If you have any specific concerns or preferences, we’re happy to accommodate them!

  • We prioritize guest satisfaction and have a clear process in place to address any issues or disputes that may arise during a stay:

    • 24/7 Availability: Our team is available around the clock to assist guests with any concerns. Guests can reach us via phone, text, or email for immediate support.

    • Prompt Response: We aim to address issues as quickly as possible, whether it’s a maintenance problem, a concern about amenities, or something else impacting the guest experience.

    • Professional Communication: We approach every situation with understanding and professionalism, working to find fair and amicable resolutions.

    • On-Site Support When Necessary: If an issue requires in-person attention, we’ll dispatch a team member or trusted local contractor to resolve the problem promptly.

    • Clear Policies: We rely on clear and consistent house rules to handle disputes objectively. This ensures that expectations are well-communicated upfront and all resolutions align with those policies.

    • Follow-Up: After resolving an issue, we follow up with the guest to ensure their satisfaction and make any necessary improvements to avoid similar concerns in the future.

    By being proactive and responsive, we strive to turn any challenges into opportunities to enhance the guest experience.

Section 8 Rentals

  • Renting to Section 8 tenants offers several advantages for landlords, including:

    • Guaranteed Rent Payments: A portion of the rent is paid directly by the Chicago Housing Agency (CHA), providing consistent and reliable income each month.

    • Large Tenant Pool: Section 8 housing is in high demand, giving landlords access to a broad pool of potential tenants who are pre-screened for eligibility by the CHA.

    • Reduced Vacancy Rates: Properties approved for Section 8 are often rented quickly, minimizing the time your unit sits vacant.

    • Support for Low-Income Families: Participating in the program helps provide safe, affordable housing to individuals and families in need, contributing to community stability.

    • Inspection Requirements: Regular inspections ensure the property remains in good condition, which can benefit landlords by identifying necessary repairs early.

    While there are additional requirements and processes involved with Section 8 rentals, the program can provide a stable, long-term source of income and peace of mind for property owners.

  • Getting a property approved for Section 8 housing requires several steps to meet the local housing authority's requirements. Here's an overview of the process:

    • Market the Property: Advertise your property as available for Section 8 tenants.

    • Initial Screening: Conduct your standard tenant screening (e.g., credit checks, rental history, background checks) to ensure the tenant meets your requirements, as long as they comply with fair housing laws.

    • Request for Tenancy Approval (RTA):  Once a prospective tenant with a Section 8 voucher expresses interest, we will submit their RTA packet to the CHA.

    • Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspection: Once approved, the CHA schedules an inspection of the property to ensure it meets HQS. This inspection focuses on safety, cleanliness, and functionality, such as:

      • No structural hazards

      • Proper utilities and plumbing

      • Working smoke detectors

      • Adequate heating, ventilation, and lighting

    • Sign the Lease and Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Contract: Once the property passes inspection and rent is approved, the landlord signs a lease with the tenant and a separate HAP contract with the PHA. The HAP contract outlines the portion of the rent paid by the PHA on behalf of the tenant.

    • Ongoing Compliance: After approval, the property must continue to meet HQS standards during regular inspections, and any repairs or updates required by the PHA must be addressed promptly.

    This process ensures the property meets Section 8 standards, benefits both landlords and tenants, and facilitates timely housing assistance payments.


  • Rent payment under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program involves a combination of tenant contributions and payments from the local Public Housing Agency (PHA). Here's how it works:

    • Tenant's Portion of Rent: The tenant is responsible for paying a portion of the rent directly to the landlord. This amount is typically calculated as 30% of their adjusted gross income, though it may vary slightly depending on the tenant's financial situation and may be as low as $0.

    • Housing Assistance Payment (HAP): The CHA pays the remaining portion of the rent directly to the landlord each month through a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP). This ensures landlords receive consistent and timely payments for the approved amount.

    • Payment Timing: The tenant's portion is due according to the lease agreement, usually on the first of the month. The CHA’s payment will arrive either on the 1st or the 15th of the month but is typically processed on a reliable schedule.

    • Late Payments: CHA is consistent with their payments, but if the tenant is late with their portion, standard lease terms and applicable laws regarding late payments or nonpayment apply.

    This dual-payment system ensures landlords receive most, if not all, of their rent reliably while providing tenants with affordable housing options. You are also guaranteed the HAP portion for the entirety of the lease regardless if the tenant leaves.