PROPERTY MANAGEMENT FAQ

How much do property management services cost?

Property management fees are based on a percentage of gross rents collected, a one-time leasing fee collected from the first month’s rent, and a monthly management fee charged every month thereafter. Fees vary depending on the type and number of properties you are placing under management. Provide some information about your property to get a free quote. Additional fees may apply for assisting with evictions, insurance claims, and other unique circumstances. There are no up-front fees, maintenance coordination fees, annual inspection fees, or other itemized fees.

Do I need to make repairs or upgrades before I can rent my property?

We take pride in providing quality housing. Your rental property must be compliant with applicable Civil Code, Health & Safety code, and other local, state, and federal laws. The home must be freshly painted inside and deep cleaned throughout, including windows, carpets, and tile grout if applicable. Doors and windows must function and lock properly. Window screens and coverings should be provided for privacy. All appliances, electrical, lighting, heating, plumbing, and other systems must be in good working order. The landscaping should be neatly manicured, including trash removal, tree trimming, and gutter cleaning if needed. Roofing must be free of leaks. Fencing and gates on the property must be sturdy and secure.

How is the market rent for my property determined?

We use local market data from various sources to help you determine a fair market rent for your property. Location, bedrooms, living space, amenities, and other important factors will affect your potential rent income. Evaluating these factors and comparing to other similar properties is the best way to set realistic expectations about your property's profitability. Contact our office today to request a complementary rental analysis.

How are vacant rentals advertised?

Vacant rentals are advertised on all the most popular rental housing websites. Our attractive listings include quality photos, maps, details about amenities, and online rental applications. Our friendly leasing staff responds quickly to inquiries about your property, scheduling showings, explaining rental applications terms, and answering any questions prospective renters may have about your property.

How are prospective tenants screened and selected?

Rental applications can be conveniently submitted online 24 hours per day, or in one of our offices during normal business hours. Applicants are screened on a first-come first-serve basis, according to pre-established credit, income, and rental history requirements. Residents are approved and selected exclusively by our staff. Only qualified applicants are selected to rent your property. Please refer to our leasing guidelines to learn more about the process

How long does it take to find renters?

The amount of time required to find renters for a vacant property depends on a variety of factors. Location, rental rate, time of year, condition of the property, etc. Most properties rent within 2-4 weeks of becoming available for move in.

What is your pet policy?

Pet friendly rental homes attract a larger pool of qualified renters. Although allowing one or two pets is encouraged, the pet policy for your property is determined by you. An increase in security deposit of at least $300.00 for each pet is required. Certain dog breeds are restricted – Doberman Pinscher, Pit-Bull, Rottweiler, Great Dane, Presa Canario, Cane Corso, and Wolf Hybrid – whether purebred or crossbred. All pets residing at the property must be listed at the time a rental application is submitted. Applicants must submit a current photograph of any animal(s) listed on their rental application. State and federal laws govern service animals and emotional support animals. Service animals and emotional support animals are not legally considered pets and are not subject to pet policies.

Am I required to allow Section 8 applicants to rent my home?

Section 8 applicants may apply for any home listed for rent by our office. Section 8 applicants must meet the income, credit, and rental history requirements outlined in our rental policies and procedures. Housing Vouchers are considered an acceptable form of income. Approval of a Section 8 applicant requires certain forms to be completed and submitted to the Housing Authority for processing. Your home must also pass a Housing Authority inspection. The process is finalized when a lease agreement and Housing Authority contract have been executed.

How often are walkthroughs of my property completed?

 A walkthrough is completed every time a new tenant moves in or moves out of your property. Walkthroughs for occupied properties are completed every 6-12 months. A detailed report and photos are uploaded to your Owner Portal following each walkthrough.

How are maintenance and repairs handled?

Maintenance and repairs coordinated by our team are completed by licensed, insured, and trusted vendors. Residents can submit maintenance requests by email, telephone, text message, and through an online resident portal. A 24-hour maintenance emergency line is available to all residents. Except for emergency repairs, an owner’s approval is required for repairs over $400. Owners may occasionally want to complete repairs themselves or hire vendors of their choice. Depending on the circumstances, consideration can be given to both options. California law requires Owners to be responsible for "normal wear and tear" expenses. Residents are not charged for maintenance and repair expenses associated with normal wear and tear.

What type of financial reporting is provided?

Monthly financial reporting includes an owner statement, cash flow statement, and copies of paid invoices. Customized reporting packages can be provided, and a wide variety of reports are available upon request. A 1099 statement and year-end cash flow statement is provided at the conclusion of each calendar year, making your tax filing process convenient and straightforward.

When are owner payments processed? 

Direct deposits are processed around the 15th of each month. Owner checks are mailed out at the end of each month.

How much does an eviction cost?

Eviction fees and legal notices fees are charged separately by a third-party eviction services company. Eviction costs vary depending on the location of the property. Three day notice fees range from $50 - $75. The cost to file a Notice of Unlawful Detainer ranges from $750 - $1000. Attorney’s fees usually range from $300 - $500. These costs do not include any fees charged by Countryside to attend court hearings or sheriff lockouts.

 Is state tax withholding required for nonresidents?

Yes. The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) requires withholding on all payments to nonresidents and foreign nonresidents. If you are a nonresident, Countryside must withhold 7% of your rent income that exceeds $1,500 in a calendar year. Please visit the FTB website for additional information.

What areas do you serve?

Countryside serves a wide area of Northern California with multiple office locations. We are always seeking new opportunities to provide quality property management services to more customers. Click here for a list of service areas.

What is the cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy is flexible. A sixty day written notice can be provided at any time.

Are customer references available?

References are always available upon request. Customer experiences are often detailed in online reviews.