Q. Why do most rentals in Miami charge first, last and security up front. That's a lot of money!
A. You're right. It is a lot of money, and the answer is simple. Most buildings in Miami were built as condos, not apartment buildings. Repairs to condo buildings can be much more expensive than repairs to an apartment building (think lobby, elevators, cabinets, flooring, etc), so condo associations charge a one-month security deposit to help protect the building. The vast majority of stabilized condo buildings in Miami do this. The condo association usually holds onto the security deposit (not the landlord).
Q. I know you advertise your services as "free" for renters, so how do you get paid?
A. Good question. Landlords pay us to find qualified tenants for them because it's very time-consuming and expensive to lease individual properties.
Q. Renting seems so expensive, with deposits and everything. Should I just look at buying something?
A. Every situation is unique, but consider this: in most buildings right now, your rent only covers the cost of the unit's property tax and monthly assessment (if that). So considering the alternative, renting in this environment looks pretty attractive.
Q. I need a short-term rental (less than 6 months). Can you help me?
A. We specialize in longer-term rentals (generally 12 months). There are many vacation and short-term agencies on the Beach who specialize in weekly or monthly rentals.
Q. Great! So I'll just rent month-to-month. Right?
A. Short-term leases are more expensive. The city charges a 13% tax on any lease less than 6 months, and you will pay a higher monthly rate (in addition to the normal deposits, etc.), so take that into consideration. If you need the flexibility, or you plan on moving again within the next 90 days, then short-term may be a good solution for you.
Q. How early in the process do I need to begin looking at apartments?
A. Three or four weeks prior to your move date is typical. Many associations take a week or so to process your application, so take that into consideration.
Q. Like many people, my credit is less than great right now. Can I really get into a nice highrise building?
A. Every association has their own guidelines, but credit requirements are not horribly restrictive right now, if you have good rental payment history, and your income sources are adequate to cover your rent. Condo associations are usually much tougher if you have any type of criminal record (associations usually pull credit and criminal reports). Ask your leasing agent for details.
Q. How do I schedule a showing?
A. The easiest way to schedule a showing is to call our office at 305-305-APTS. You may also contact us online at RenterAssist@MiamiApartmentFinders.com and a licensed agent will call you to schedule a showing. Be sure to include your phone number with any email, otherwise we may mistake you for a bot. If you're on Lincoln road, visit our office at the corner of Lincoln & Washington - 407 Lincoln Road, Suite 9D.
If you know the neighborhood you're interested in, call one of our award-winning agents to see available units:
Brickell Agents South Beach Agents
Chris Jones (305) 710-4009 Beka Molina (786) 357-0888
Elizabeth Lao (954) 270-3718 Luis Pascual (786) 512-9034
Michael Powell (786) 348-9128 Silvia Petracchi (305) 776-9824
Carmen Somarriba (786) 286-2551 David Wells (813) 781-0453
Will Schmierer (305) 725-2419
MidBeach Agents Gables / Grove Agents
Luis Pascaul (786) 512-9034 Joanna Tomarchio (305) 778-3801
Beka Molina (786) 357-0888 Elizabeth Lao (954) 270-3718
Have a great day!
