Landlord Frequently Asked Questions

What is a non-exclusive agreement? How much does it cost to list with CAF? How does CAF get paid? What does CAF look for when researching a prospective tenant? How will you be showing my property? What type of lease do you use? Can I use my own lease? How will my unit be advertised? Does CAF offer property management services? I'm a condo owner. What do I need to do differently?
QWhat is a non-exclusive agreement?
AA non-exclusive agreement gives Apartment Finders the right to show a landlord's property. We collect a commission when we provide a landlord with a tenant that they approve of. The benefit of a non-exclusive agreement is that owners are free to market their units as they choose. If an owner rents a unit on their own or finds a tenant through another service, they do not pay us a fee.
QHow much does it cost to list with CAF?
AOur standard fee is the equivalent of one month's rent.
QHow does CAF get paid?
ATypically Apartment Finders collects the first month's rent from prospective tenants before they submit their applications. The landlord then collects subsequent months' rents as normal.
QWhat does CAF look for when researching a prospective tenant?
ATo help owners decide whether to accept or reject an application, Apartment Finders will provide: Rental History, Current Rental Status, Employment Verification, Credit Check and (upon request) a Criminal Background Check.
QHow will you be showing my property?
AIt is easiest for us to show a property if an owner provides us with keys. We have found that our success rate is much higher for apartments that we have keys to, because our agents can be more flexible with showing times. Owners who are uncomfortable providing keys generally meet our Licensed Leasing Agents on site or provide their own lockbox at the property.
QWhat type of lease do you use?
AApartment Finders is proud to use the "104 Lease." This lease was designed with landlords in mind and adheres closely to the Municipal Code of Chicago.
QCan I use my own lease?
AOwners can definitely provide us with their own leases and/or riders which we can have signed in their stead.
QHow will my unit be advertised?
AApartment Finders spends a great deal of time and money ensuring that we bring in qualified renters for the apartments we list. Our marketing approach includes advertising on the CTA, having a strong web presence, posting classified ads in a variety of periodicals and, of course, generating word of mouth and referral business from satisfied customers and landlords.
QDoes CAF offer property management services?
AYes. Among our diverse options for landlords, we provide low hassle property management for owners who don't have the time or experience needed to properly manage their property.
QI'm a condo owner. What do I need to do differently?
ADealing with a condo board can be very different from owning a standard rental unit. Many condos have fees associated, approval processes, move-in dates/times, etc. If you are listing a condo rental with us, please let us know so we can make sure that we process deals correctly and inform renters what is required and expected of them.