Q and A

Tenant Questions & Answers

HOW CAN I VIEW A RENTAL PROPERTY?
To ensure an efficient and secure process for everyone, we require all prospective tenants to submit an application by clicking “Apply Now” at the top of the page after you have driven by the property of interest.

There is no upfront charge to submit your application.  We will not process the application fee until after you have viewed the property (either virtually or in person) and confirmed you would like to move forward.

Once your application is submitted, we will contact you within 24 business hours to schedule a viewing.  Please note that an application is required prior to any showings.  If the application fee cannot be processed once authorized, the application will be withdrawn.

HOW DOES YOUR APPLICATION PROCESS WORK?
Submitting your application through our portal is free.  Once you decide to proceed after viewing the property, a $50 application fee per adult (18+) will be charged to cover background and payment history checks.

All adults who will occupy the home must complete an application.  Applications must be fully completed with all required information, and all occupants should apply within 1 hour of each other.

We begin processing only complete applications.  If an application remains incomplete for more than 24 hours, it will be withdrawn.  Please note that we conduct thorough verifications, which may take slightly longer than other companies.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR DURING THE APPLICATION PROCESS?
We take a comprehensive approach when reviewing applications.  Instead of a strict income multiplier, we evaluate:

• A minimum of 12 months of verifiable employment (or award letters for non-employment income)
• Debt-to-income ratio (income vs. financial obligations)
• Payment history (rather than just credit score)
• Rental history, including verification of the past 24 months

Please note: We are unable to approve applicants with an eviction filing within the past 3 years.

If you have a unique situation, we encourage you to include details in your application.  Each case is reviewed carefully.

HOW MUCH IS THE SECURITY DEPOSIT?
Security deposits vary by property.  The minimum deposit is equal to one month's rent and may be up to two months' rent depending on the application outcome.

Example: If rent is $1,200/month, the deposit will be at least $1,200.

CAN I PLACE A HOLD ON A PROPERTY?
Yes. Once your application is approved, we can hold a property for up to 3 days.

To do so, a holding deposit (equal to the security deposit) must be paid within 24 hours via cashier's check or money order.

If you choose not to move forward, the deposit will be refunded minus:

• Prorated rent for the days the property was held, and 
• $150 nonrefundable administrative fee

After 3 days, the full holding deposit becomes non-refundable.

HOW ARE RENT PAYMENTS MADE?
Rent is due on the 1st of each month and is considered late after the 3rd.  Late fees apply on the 4th, and eviction filings may begin on the 6th if rent remains unpaid.

Payments must be made via:

• Automatic bank draft
• Military allotment
• Online portal (EFT)

We do not accept in-person payments.

Tenants whose income is non-employment based are required to enroll in automatic bank draft.

DO YOU ACCEPT SECTION 8 OR HOUSING VOUCHERS?
Acceptance of housing vouchers is determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the property.

Voucher amounts must meet market rent, and all applicants must still satisfy our standard rental requirements.

WHAT IS IT LIKE RENTING FROM VALDOSTASOLD REAL ESTATE SERVICES?
We are a small, hands-on company that takes pride in maintaining quality homes and strong tenant relationships.

We emphasize:

• On-time rent payments
• Proper care and maintenance of our properties

Our homes are primarily single-family residences, and we seek responsible tenants who value and maintain their living space.  Pets are allowed only in designated pet-friendly properties and require approval.

HOW ARE SECURITY DEPOSITS HANDLED?
Security deposits are managed in accordance with Georgia landlord-tenant laws.

After move-out, we conduct a detailed inspection once all personal belongings have been removed.  Based on the condition of the property, all or a portion of the deposit may be returned.

A written report and any applicable refund will be sent within 30 days.

DO YOU RENT TO COLLEGE STUDENTS?
Yes, provided all applicants meet our standard rental qualifications.

WHAT ABOUT THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND SCHOOLS?
For neighborhood information, you may visit the Georgia Bureau of Investigation website or contact the local police department at 229-245-5270.

For school zoning details, please contact:

• Lowndes County Schools: 229-245-2257
• Valdosta City Schools: 229-245-5640

FINAL REMARKS
We are committed to providing quality homes and a positive rental experience for our tenants.

If you are seeking a well-maintained home and are prepared to meet your rental obligations, we would love to work with you.

However, if meeting rent deadlines or maintaining the property may be a challenge, we respectfully ask that you do not apply.