Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is biweekly rent?
All of the properties that we manage here at MJN Rentals function on a biweekly payment plan for rent. Biweekly rent is rent paid every two weeks, rather than on a traditional monthly payment schedule. We have seen that biweekly rent offers financial flexibility for renters, improved budgeting, and helps renters to avoid late fees.
What are your income requirements?
Although we do not have a minimum credit score, we do check your credit report for recent late payments. The minimum required income is 2.25 times the rent payment. Based on additional factors like credit scores or bank statements, a higher income may be necessary. You can use a co-signer if your income is below the minimum requirements.
Do you accept Section 8?
We currently participate in the Section 8 housing program at Beech Grove Apartments in Indianapolis, IN and Grand Vision Apartments at Kirkwood in Cedar Rapids, IA. We do not accept section 8 any of our other properties.
Can I see the apartment before completing an application?
We only allow showings of people who have completed the preliminary application. This careful screening process allows us to maintain a peaceful and harmonious living environment for our current residents. It also helps us to ensure that those who move in are a good fit for our community. You are welcome to drive past the apartment to see the exterior, but a preliminary application approval is required for an interior showing. We do not charge an application fee or do a credit check as part of the preliminary application.
How much is your application fee?
Our preliminary application is completely FREE. We believe that there should be as few barriers as possible when it comes to applying for an apartment, and for this reason we have decided not to charge any application fees.
Why do you review public records for all applicants over the age of 18?
We review public records to assess an applicant's rental history, criminal background, and financial stability. This helps us make informed decisions to protect our current residents and maintain a peaceful community.
What types of public records do you check?
Our public record review typically includes:
Criminal Records: We check for any criminal convictions that may pose a risk to the safety and well-being of our community.
Eviction Records: We assess an applicant's eviction history to gauge their ability to meet their rental obligations. We typically do not approve applications with an eviction within the last 2 years. If there are extenuating circumstances, you can reach out about a possible exception approval.
Credit History: We may evaluate an applicant's credit report to ensure they have a stable financial background.
Who can co-sign for me?
A co-signer should meet the following criteria to be considered:
Stable Income: The co-signer should demonstrate a stable and sufficient income to cover the lease obligations.
Legal Residency: The co-signer must be a legal resident of the country.
What dog breeds are not allowed?
Per our insurance provider, the following dog breeds are not allowed: Akita, American Bulldog, Canary Dog, Chow, Staffordshire Terrier, Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, Wolf Hybrid, German Shepherd, Louisiana Leopard Dog, Mastiff Breeds, Tosa Inu, St Francis Terrier
What if I have an emotional support animal?
We follow the guidelines of the federal housing administration. If your animal falls under the guidelines of an ESA, it will be permitted per those guidelines. If it is a dog that is on the list of prohibited breeds specified by our insurance provider, you will need to have a renter's insurance policy with the dog and breed stated on the policy. The policy will need to be a minimum of $500k in liability.
How long are your typical leases?
Leases with us typically last 1 year. The only exception would be our furnished apartments at Beech Grove Apartments, which were designed to accommodate travel nurses on short, temporary leases.
How long does the application process typically take from start to finish?
Unless otherwise specified, all apartments listed as available on any listing sites are ready for move-in and are waiting to welcome new residents! Our diligent document processing team will have your application reviewed within 24 hours, and if that application is approved, you will then be invited to send documents to verify your income and view the apartment. This final review may take between 24-48 hours to complete, as long as you are able to provide us with the necessary documents. Once this step is complete and your application is approved, you will be invited to our payment platform to make your first payments to reserve the unit. Depending on your bank, this could take between 3-5 business days for payments to be fully processed in our system. Once these payments have been made, you will be sent electronic lease paperwork to fill out and you will be free to move-in on the agreed-upon date once this step has been completed. Most tenants have completed our entire application process within 1-2 weeks and are settled in their new home by the end of that time frame.
