Applications are submitted online through our website. You'll need recent pay stubs, employment verification, references, and a government-issued ID. Our typical approval process takes 24-48 hours for qualified applicants.

We look for reliable tenants with stable employment and positive rental history. Our screening includes credit checks (typically looking for 650+ credit score), income verification (monthly income should be at least 3x the rent), background checks, and previous landlord references. We understand that everyone's situation is unique and consider applications holistically. If you have credit challenges or unique circumstances, we encourage you to explain them in your application. Factors like stable employment, strong references, or co-signers can strengthen applications with lower credit scores.

Many of our properties are pet-friendly! Pet policies vary by property and may include pet deposits (typically $200-500) or monthly pet rent ($25-50 per pet). We typically allow cats and dogs with some breed and weight restrictions. Service animals and emotional support animals are accommodated in accordance with Fair Housing laws. Each property listing clearly indicates pet policies. If you have a pet, please include details in your application so we can match you with pet-friendly properties.

We take maintenance seriously because your home should be comfortable and functional. Emergency maintenance (water leaks, heating/AC failure, plumbing emergencies, electrical issues, security concerns) receives same-day response with our 24/7 emergency hotline. Non-urgent requests submitted through your tenant portal are typically addressed within 48-72 hours. You can track the status of all maintenance requests in real-time through your online portal, and we'll notify you when repairs are scheduled and completed. Our goal is to keep your home in excellent condition.

What's included varies by property and is clearly outlined in your lease agreement. Many properties include water, sewer, and trash services. Some apartment communities include additional amenities like fitness centers, pools, and community spaces. Tenants are typically responsible for electricity, gas (if applicable), internet/cable, and renter's insurance (required). All inclusions and tenant responsibilities are detailed in your lease before signing, so there are no surprises. Properties with additional amenities will have those clearly listed in the property description.

Paying rent is easy and convenient through our online tenant portal. You can pay via ACH transfer (free), credit or debit card (small convenience fee applies), or set up automatic payments so you never miss a due date. Rent is due on the 1st of each month, and we offer a grace period as outlined in your lease agreement. You can access your payment history, download receipts, and manage payment methods anytime through your portal. We also accept money orders delivered to our office if you prefer, but most tenants appreciate the convenience of online payments.

We understand that life circumstances change. If you need to break your lease early, your options depend on your specific lease terms and situation. Most leases include early termination provisions that may require 60 days notice and an early termination fee (typically 1-2 months rent). In some cases, we can work with you to find a qualified replacement tenant to take over your lease, which may reduce or eliminate termination fees. Military members have additional protections under the SCRA. We encourage open communication if you're facing job relocation, family emergencies, or other circumstances - we'll work with you professionally to find the best solution.

Absolutely! We love keeping great tenants. Lease renewal offers are typically sent 60-90 days before your lease expires, giving you plenty of time to decide and plan. Renewal terms may include modest rent adjustments based on current market rates and property improvements, but we strive to keep rent increases reasonable for quality tenants. Many of our tenants have renewed multiple times and appreciate the stability of staying in a well-maintained home with responsive management. If you're a reliable tenant who cares for the property, we want to keep you as part of our community.

Upfront costs for renting with Westwood typically include: security deposit (usually equal to one month's rent), first month's rent, and application fee (typically $35-50 per adult applicant). Some properties may require last month's rent depending on credit qualifications. Pet deposits or pet fees apply if you have pets (typically $200-500 per pet, as outlined in the property listing). Total move-in costs generally range from 2-2.5 times the monthly rent plus application fees. Your security deposit is held in a separate escrow account and will be returned within 30 days of move-out, minus any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent/fees. We provide itemized statements for any deductions.

Yes, we require all tenants to maintain renter's insurance throughout their tenancy. Renter's insurance protects your personal belongings (furniture, electronics, clothing, etc.) in case of fire, theft, water damage, or other covered events. It also provides liability protection if someone is injured in your rental unit. Most renter's insurance policies cost $15-30 per month and provide $20,000-50,000 in personal property coverage plus liability protection. You'll need to provide proof of insurance before move-in and keep the policy active. This is a small investment that protects you financially - the property owner's insurance covers the building, but not your personal belongings.

Most of our properties are designated as non-smoking to maintain property condition and respect the preferences of all residents. Smoking (including cigarettes, cigars, and vaping) is prohibited inside all rental units and common areas. Many properties have designated outdoor smoking areas at least 25 feet from building entrances. Violations of the smoking policy may result in cleaning fees, carpet replacement charges, or lease violations. We take this policy seriously because smoke odors and damage can be costly to remediate and affect future tenants. If you smoke, we ask that you do so only in designated areas and properly dispose of cigarette butts. Medical marijuana follows the same restrictions as tobacco smoking.

We want you to feel at home! Minor decorative changes are allowed with some guidelines: removable wall decorations like pictures and shelves using small nails or command strips are fine (small nail holes are considered normal wear and tear). However, painting walls, installing permanent fixtures, or making any structural changes require written approval before proceeding. If you'd like to paint, submit a request with your color choices - we often approve neutral colors and may even provide the paint. Any approved changes must be done professionally and restored to original condition at move-out unless otherwise agreed in writing. Seasonal decorations and removable window treatments are always welcome. Contact us before making any permanent modifications to avoid security deposit deductions.

Yes, but all adult occupants (18+) must be on the lease and go through our application and screening process. If you want to add a roommate or co-tenant after your lease begins, the new person must submit a full application, pass our screening criteria, and be approved before moving in. There may be a small lease amendment fee (typically $50-100) for adding occupants mid-lease. All lease occupants are jointly and severally liable for rent and property care, meaning everyone shares equal responsibility. If you're looking for a roommate, both parties should apply together initially. Guests can stay temporarily (typically up to 14 days in any 6-month period) without being added to the lease, but anyone living in the unit permanently must be an approved leaseholder.

Included appliances vary by property and are listed in each property description and your lease agreement. Most properties include: refrigerator, stove/oven, and dishwasher (in units built/renovated in recent decades). Many single-family homes include washer and dryer hookups, and some include the actual appliances. Apartment communities often have shared laundry facilities or in-unit laundry depending on the property. All units include heating and most include air conditioning (window units or central air). Microwaves are included in many units but not all. If an appliance is provided and breaks due to normal wear and tear, we'll repair or replace it at no cost to you. You're welcome to bring your own appliances for hookups where provided. Check the specific property listing or ask during your tour to confirm what's included.