Frequently asked Questions
If the service is free, why do you do it, and how do you get paid?
Locators are paid by the property owners you sign a lease with. The owners pay the brokers and the brokers give the agents a share of the commission which varies depending on policies of the broker. Commissions generally range from 30% - 150% of one month's lease. Here is an example:
Tenants lease $1,000 2 bedroom apartment that pays the locator 50% commission = $500
$500 check is paid to broker and check is split 50/50 between broker and locator = $250 for locator
In order for the locator to be paid the tenant must sign a lease. This is how lease locators are paid.
Tenants lease $1,000 2 bedroom apartment that pays the locator 50% commission = $500
$500 check is paid to broker and check is split 50/50 between broker and locator = $250 for locator
In order for the locator to be paid the tenant must sign a lease. This is how lease locators are paid.
Why can't I see the location and contact information of properties on your website?
Many lease locators do not like to answer this question because it makes them seem sneaky, but in truth there is nothing to hide and the answer is simple. The contact information and address location is kept off of the listing to prevent clients from using the locator's services without the locator being paid. Landlords pay apartment locators, not the tenants, so it is important that locators get credit for their work. If a locator spends three hours searching for the perfect place for their client and then the client takes the address of an apartment and signs the lease without mentioning to the landlord that they used a locator, the locator does not get paid. Imagine going to work and not getting paid for your time! All that is asked from a locator is an equal exchange. If a locator provides assistance with your lease search, you provide the locator with the credit for having helped you. You don't have to pay any fee, all you must do is give credit to the locator who helped you. If you prefer to visit properties yourself without the company of a locator that is perfectly fine, however, it is the industry standard for the locator to call and make an appointment for you.
How can I trust that the lease locator will not disregard my needs and stick me in the place that pays them the highest commission?
This is a complex issue that I will explain, however, the most important part is that your needs are met. It is the locator's job to insure your needs are the main priority and that his or her paycheck comes afterward. All properties pay different commission amounts to the locator depending on the owner of the property, the policies that govern the building, and the occupancy rate of the property at hand. It is perfectly possible that two properties located adjacently to each other with similar amenities, price, and features, pay completely different commissions. In this case, as the client, its OK to ask what the locator's commission amount is and for an explanation as to why the locator chose one property over the other. It is a fair question that you should ask. If the locator has a qualified answer then chances are you can trust him or her. If the answer makes little sense then ask to see the other property as well. The ball should always be in your court. Sometimes the property that pays the highest commission is the right fit, so don't discount the locator's suggestion without asking questions. That is the main way to protect yourself, ask questions. Ask the locator to explain why the properties they chose for you in a search are the best properties for you.
As a protection to you, locators are licensed real estate agents and are bound by strict codes of conduct called the NAR code of ethics. This code is taken seriously and violators are punished with heavy monetary fines for misrepresentation. However, that does not mean wrong doings don't take place so be skeptical of locators who do the following:
-Provide insufficient answers to your questions
-Try to fit you into an apartment when you want a home or duplex (apartments generally pay higher commission)
-Pressure you into signing on the spot (a locator should brief you on the property before you visit to inform you of look and lease specials)
-Sell you on living in part of the city you aren't interested in
-Does not provide search results you are looking for
-Tells you that you aren't allowed to work with other locators at the same time
Please read the commitment I make to my clients to understand the type of service you can expect from doing business with me.
As a protection to you, locators are licensed real estate agents and are bound by strict codes of conduct called the NAR code of ethics. This code is taken seriously and violators are punished with heavy monetary fines for misrepresentation. However, that does not mean wrong doings don't take place so be skeptical of locators who do the following:
-Provide insufficient answers to your questions
-Try to fit you into an apartment when you want a home or duplex (apartments generally pay higher commission)
-Pressure you into signing on the spot (a locator should brief you on the property before you visit to inform you of look and lease specials)
-Sell you on living in part of the city you aren't interested in
-Does not provide search results you are looking for
-Tells you that you aren't allowed to work with other locators at the same time
Please read the commitment I make to my clients to understand the type of service you can expect from doing business with me.
What are the financial and credit requirements to rent in Austin?
Many, but not all apartment communities require you earn an income of three times your monthly rent per month. The credit score policies vary between apartment communities. Lower scores generally equate to paying higher deposits but some communities do have minimum score requirements. For homes and duplexes, the credit and financial requirements will differ between homeowners. Low income housing has more specific income related requirements but can be a great value if you are able to qualify. Please contact me here for more specific information.
How long does it take to find a lease?
Once you start working with a locator, depending on their skill and level of involvement, leases can take up to a week to locate. Austin has an occupancy rate over 90% so results vary depending on the location and price range of the search.
Please read the commitment I make to my clients to understand my "two day tops" policy.
Please read the commitment I make to my clients to understand my "two day tops" policy.
What are the extra costs on top of renting?
Depending on the property, utility costs can either be included with the rent or left for the tenant to pay. Energy costs vary but can be reduced through energy efficiency improvements that Austin Green Lease promotes and emphasizes. A premium can be paid to purchase and support renewable electricity through Austin Energy. Other costs include but are not limited to gas, water, and trash pick up. Austin Green Lease can help you develop methods to save with all utility costs that are not prorated.
Please read the commitments I make to my clients to understand more about how I will help you save money on energy costs.
Please read the commitments I make to my clients to understand more about how I will help you save money on energy costs.
Will the landlord charge me more for my lease if I use a locator?
No. Landlords can not change their lease quotes from person to person based on whether or not they are using a locator's services, that is a violation of the fair housing act.
