Residential Rental Policies

Residential Rental Policy

BHHS Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, Inc. is an equal housing provider committed to full compliance with the Fair Housing Act in both principle and practice. We provide equal housing opportunities to all applicants and residents without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin. As REALTORS®, we further adhere to the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics and do not discriminate in the provision of services based on sexual orientation, gender identity, o r any other protected class. We are committed to delivering fair, consistent, and professional service to all.

Application Process

Applications are processed in the order received; however, approval is based on the first fully completed and qualified applicant. In the event multiple qualified applications are received, BHHS Hodnett Cooper Real Estate reserves the right to select the most qualified applicant based on overall application strength. A completed application includes the following: (1) payment of the application fee (2) the BHHS Hodnett Cooper application with all requested information provided . A property is considered leased and will be removed from the market only when an application has been approved and the non-refundable holding fee has been received.

Rental Criteria

• Credit score is one factor considered and does not guarantee approval. Credit Score Requirements:

• Prior evictions or filings for non-payment of rent may result in denial, depending on circumstances, recency, and resolution.

• Income to Rent Ratio: income must be 3 times the amount of rent charged.

• Verifiable gross monthly income must meet the above criteria and may include employment income, self-employment income, or other approved sources.

• An unsatisfactory credit report, which reflects current delinquent debts, unpaid bills, liens or judgements without resolution or recent bankruptcy information may disqualify an applicant.

• Bankruptcy Filing: must be filed over 5 years ago to be considered.

• Questions about previous rental history might include: (1) pet behavior, (2) complaints about noise or other noxious behavior and / or (3) payment of rent or other financial obligations under the lease or rental agreement.

• Applicants who do not fully meet the above criteria may be considered for conditional approval, which may require additional security deposit, advance rent, or other risk-mitigating terms as determined by management.

• All occupants over the age of 18 years old must complete a separate application and pay a separate application fee of $75.00.

Criminal Background Criteria

A criminal background check will be conducted. Denial is not based solely on the existence of a criminal record but will consider the nature, severity, and recency of any offenses in accordance with applicable laws and Fair Housing guidelines.

Holding Fee

Upon approval, the holding fee will be applied toward the required security deposit at move-in. Approved applicants must execute a lease agreement and pay all required move-in funds within 7 days of approval, or the holding fee will be forfeited and the property returned to the market.

Move-In Funds

All move-in funds, including first month’s rent, security deposit, and applicable fees, must be paid in full prior to possession of the property.

Resident Benefit Package (RBP) & Group Rate Internet (GRI)

At Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, we strive to provide a rental experience that is both convenient and cost -effective. To support this, all residents are enrolled in our Resident Benefits Package (RBP), designed to simplify everyday living and include ess ential services. The RBP is $40.00 per month in addition to rent and includes pest control, air filter delivery, utility setup assistance, credit building, resident rewards, and identity protection.

When applicable, homes also include Group Rate Internet (GRI) which is high-speed internet up to 1 Gig at an exclusive group rate of $60/month, along with 24/7 premium support and move-in setup assistance to ensure a seamless connection.

Residents may have the option to customize certain components of the package during onboarding, which may adjust the total monthly cost. Additional details will be provided during the application process. Enrollment in the Resident Benefits Package (RBP) is required unless otherwise stated.

Occupancy

Occupancy standards are generally based on two persons per bedroom, plus one additional occupant where applicable, and are subject to local and state guidelines.

Renter’s Insurance

Renter’s insurance is required for all tenants and must be maintained throughout the lease term. Minimum liability coverage requirements will be outlined in the lease agreement.

Non-Smoking Policy

All properties are non-smoking. Smoking is prohibited inside the property and may be restricted in outdoor areas as outlined in the lease. Violations may result in fees and/or lease termination.

Pets

If you have a pet, please ask your rental representative to identify properties that welcome pets. Many of our owners do accept pets, although the number, size and type of pet(s) may be limited. If the property you have chosen is pet friendly, the non - refundable pet fee is $300 per pet. Rent will also be increased by $25 per pet per month as pet rent. Assistance animals (including service animals and emotional support animals) are not considered pets and are not subject to pet fees, breed restrictions, or other pet-related policies in accordance with Fair Housing laws. Proper documentation may be required. The following breeds of dogs are not allowed:

*Pit Bulls as defined by insurance companies are Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Bull Terriers and Ameri can Staffordshire Terriers or any combination of these breeds. Pet approval is subject to property owner approval and may vary by property. 

Fees

• Application Fee: $75.00

• Non-refundable Holding Deposit equal to ½ of Security Deposit

• Security Deposit: Typically equal to one to two months’ rent, depending on application qualifications.

Fraud / Misrepresentation

Any falsification, omission, or misrepresentation of information on the application will result in immediate denial and/or termination of any lease agreement entered into based on such information.

Application Validity

Applications are valid for 30 days and may be transferred to another available property within that timeframe upon request.

BHHS Hodnett Cooper Real Estate reserves the right to modify or update this policy at any time without prior notice.

520 Ocean Boulevard • St. Simons, GA 31522

11 Trade Street • Brunswick, GA 31525

70 Hawthorn Lane, Suite A • St. Marys, GA 31558

www.bhhshodnettcooper.com

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC