Applicant's FAQ's

How can I view the property?

Each property has a Rently box, (www.rently.com) Click on schedule a showing, then following the link provided to schedule your tour.  Note: a credit card is required, $0.99 hold will be placed on your card.  DO NOT allow other to view with you without going through the same process.  You will be held liability for any and all damages.  Call our office for details at 205-358-3377.

Where can I get a rental application?

You can apply here online or by appointment at Russell Realty Associates located in Alabaster. 8919 Highway 119, Suite-107 Click on the link on the website...pay application fee.

Is there an application fee?

The application fee is $55.00 per applicant/ adult (19+).  Application fee can be paid with money order, cashier's check or cash or by credit or debit card on our online system on the website.  Application fee(s) are non-refundable.

What are the qualifications to rent?

• Income must be three times the monthly rent off of your net, after deductions.
• Employment- A minimum of one  (1) year job history.  No temporary jobs.
• Applicant must provide current pay check stubs for the last 30 days. 
• Self employed needs one year tax returns and or bank statements.
• Rental History- Good rental history or if you own your own home, a good payment history (has to be verified).  No evictions in the past 5 years.  No open balances with previous or current landlords. Minimum credit of 580.
• If you have been evicted  your application will be denied. If you have filed bankruptcy Chapter 7 or 13 the bankruptcy has to be discharged for at least two years. 
• If you are active in Chapter 7 or 13 your application will be denied.
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What if I had a repossession?
If personal property owned by the applicant has been subject to repossession more than 3 years prior to the application and no balance is owed in connection with the repossession, otherwise satisfactory rental applications maybe approved, but only if the applicant provides a guarantor.
No late payments more than 30 days.

Do you take cosigners?

Co-signers are subject to approval.  Co-signer must complete an application and pay a separate application fee of $55.00. In the event the primary applicant is evicted or sued for non payment for rent, the co-signer will be made party and held responsible for non-payment.
Note: the use of co-signer's varies on the situation.

What if I've never rented before and or own a home?

You could still qualify for approval if you have a good credit history (FICO score 600), have verifiable good payment history, verifiable source of income and you make at least 3 times the monthly rent off your net, after deductions.

How long does it take to process my application?

Russell Realty & Associates processes application as quick as possible.  The process takes from 48-72 hours, we request all verifiable numbers, authorization form returned, criminal and credit background check, rent and employment verification.   Family & friends are not an acceptable form of rental history verification.   Per our policy, properties are continued being shown until applicants approval.

Once my application is approved, What's next?

Applicant must pay their security deposit and take possession of the property within 2 weeks (move into the home). If applicant does not move in the home within the timeframe specified of submitting the security deposit the Security Deposit is forfeited and the home is placed back on the rental market. There are some exceptions with management approval.

If I cancel my move in after I have paid my security deposit do I get my security deposit back?

No, the property is then removed off the market.  Security deposit will reserve the property for you for up to two weeks. If you submit the security deposit once approved and a lease is signed your deposit is NON-REFUNDABLE. WE CAN ONLY ACCEPT CERTIFIED FUNDS (cashier’s check, money order) FOR THE DEPOSIT AND THE FIRST MONTH’S RENT. After that, you may use personal checks or our online portal system.

Is there a Pet Fee?

Yes. Certain properties will accept pets.  However, it is up to each owner.  If the home is pet friendly, a non refundable pet fee will be required for approved pets. Pet fees is $350 per pet, at the Owners request an additional pet fee could be requested for an approved pet.  We do not accept pets labeled as a vicious animal (Doberman, Pit Bull, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Great Dane, etc.)

Note: Security Deposits will not be accepted until you have personally viewed the property. 

If you have additional questions, feel free to contact our office at 205-358-3377.

Russell Realty & Associates, LLC  do not discriminate because of race, color religion, handicap, familial status, sex or national origin.