Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What if I need to move before my lease is up?

  A: First you would need to notify us in writing of your intent to move. We will make every effort to mitigate any potential loss by trying to rent the home as soon as possible.

  You will be held responsible for paying the rent through the end of your lease term or until the home is rented (whichever occurs first), plus you will be held responsible for any necessary costs and fees incurred by the property owner due to your breaking the lease.

• Q: Can I sublease?

  A: No.

• Q: Can I paint or change anything in my rental home?

  A: No. You may not alter the property in any way, unless you receive written permission from Ellis HomeSource prior to making a change. This should be submitted in writing, and you must wait until you receive written consent before making any alterations.

• Q: Can I get a pet anytime after I move in?

  A: Yes you can, as long as the pet fits the weight limit and breed restriction that the owner has stipulated, and they allow pets in the home. You will have to pay a pet deposit and sign a pet addendum to your lease.

• Q: What happens if my roommate wants to move out but I do not?

  A: If your roommate moves out, a written notice must be submitted to Ellis HomeSource. You and your roommates are jointly and severally liable to ensure that the rent is paid each month. You must have written permission from us to substitute a roommate and that new roommate must fill out an application and be approved by our standards.

  No portion of the security deposit will be refunded to the roommate leaving. However if you can meet all the financial qualifications by yourself, then you can stay in the home and be the only one on the lease and responsible for the rent.

• Q: What is considered an emergency maintenance request vs a non-emergency one?

  A: Emergency maintenance requests are active water leaks, flooding, sewer backups, sparks from appliances, gas odors, fire, etc. Non-emergency would be a burned out light, a cracked window, a filter that needs changing, etc.

• Q: Can the Owner force me to move during my lease?

  A: No. The owner cannot evict you from the home unless you breach the lease agreement that you signed. Even if the owner wants to move back in to the dwelling, or sell the property, your lease will be honored through the expiration date.

• Q: What about renters insurance?

  A: Ellis HomeSource requires that you carry enough insurance to cover you and your personal property. You will be required to show proof of renters insurance to qualify for your move in. Check with your insurance agent to get more information and rates. HomeSource can also refer you to a qualified licensed insurance provider.