Application FAQs

• Where does Open Key have properties for rent?

  We currently have rental properties in the Wiregrass Region of Alabama and in Jackson County, Florida.

• What types of properties does Open Key have for rent?

  Open Key offers a variety of rental properties, including single-family homes, mobile homes, apartments, townhouses, and commercial properties. All available rentals are listed on our website.

• Will Open Key sign a short-term lease agreement?

  Our standard lease term is one year, unless otherwise specified in the individual property listing.

• Can you hold a place before I apply?

  Applications are processed in the order that they are received. Properties are awarded to the first qualified applicant(s). Once approved, you have 48 hours to sign the lease and submit the security deposit. If not completed within this time, the property will be released, and we will continue processing applications.

• What is the application fee?

  The application fee is $60.00 per applicant. Each adult intending to occupy the premises must submit a separate rental application: 18 years or older in Florida, or 19 years or older in Alabama. If you're interested in multiple properties, you only need to submit one application within a 60-day period, as applications can be transferred. Please note that application fees are non-refundable.

• How long does it take to process an application?

  We strive to process rental applications within five business days. The process includes verifying information in several categories, including but not limited to:

  • Rental history
  • Credit history
  • Eviction history
  • Criminal background
  • Employment and income history

  Each application must be filled out completely and signed by the applicant.

  Incomplete applications will not be processed.

• How old do you have to be to apply?

  Applicants must be 18 years of age or older in Florida and 19 years of age or older in Alabama.

• What do I have to pay before I move in?

  Upon approval, you are responsible for paying the following through your resident portal:

  • Prorated Rent (First Month’s)
  • Security Deposit
  • First Month Resident Benefit Package Fee
  • Pet Deposit (if applicable)
  • Pet Rent (if applicable)

• What is required before move in?

  Approved applicants must pay all required fees, sign the lease agreement, and provide proof of utilities before access to the premises will be granted.

• How much is the security deposit?

  The minimum security deposit required is equal to one month's rent. In certain circumstances, additional security deposit may be required as a condition of approval.

• What utilities are included in the rent price?

  Typically, residents are responsible for all utilities associated with our rental properties. Any exceptions where utilities are included in the rental price will be specified in the property's marketing details on our website.

• What is the Resident Benefits Package?

  All Open Key residents are enrolled in the Resident Benefits Package (RBP) for a fee between $34.95 to $49.95/month. Examples of benefits included are renters insurance, credit building to help boost your credit score with timely rent payments, our best-in-class resident rewards program, $1M Identity Protection, move-in concierge service making utility connection and home service setup a breeze during your move-in, online resident portal for easy online rent payments & maintenance reporting, HVAC air filter delivery (for applicable properties).

• You have a property I want to rent. How do I apply?

  You can access our rental application through the following link: https://openkeypm.rentvine.com/portals/applicant/apply

• What things do you check in the application process?

  We conduct checks on credit, criminal, and eviction reports, and also verify employment, income, and rental histories for each rental applicant.

• How do I pay rent?

  Rent is due on the 1st of each month. Residents are required to use our Rentvine online payment system for ease and convenience. Alternatively, residents can make in-person payments at participating CVS,7-Eleven, Ace Cash Express, Family Dollar, Casey's General Stores, Walmart, Walgreens and Dollar General locations using a barcode supplied by Open Key Property Management.

• Are there fees associated with paying rent through the Rentvine resident portal?

  Yes. There are two payment options available through Rentvine, each with associated technology fees:

  • eCheck (ACH): FREE! This option uses your bank account and routing number.
  • Credit Cards and Debit Cards: Requires a 4.0% processing fee.

• Are there fees associated with paying rent through the Rentvine resident portal?

  • Pets are allowed at certain properties. Please refer to the property listing to see if pets are permitted.
  • Only small to medium-sized, non-violent, common domesticated animals are allowed. Farm animals, snakes, other reptiles, exotic animals, and any large or aggressive animals are not approved. Aggressive dog breeds, including but not limited to Pinschers, Akita, American Bulldog, Bullmastiff, Mastiff, Chow, Doberman, German Shepherd, Husky, Presa Canario, Pit Bull, Siberian Husky, Stafford Terrier (pit bulls), Wolf Dog, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, American Pit Bull Terriers, Alaskan Malamutes, Great Danes, St. Bernards, Mastiffs etc. and mixed breeds including any of the above mentioned will not be approved.
  • If a pet is approved, a $300 pet deposit per pet is required. Additionally, pet rent is $50.00 per month for the first pet and $25.00 per month for any additional pets.
  • Open Key allows a maximum of two animals per property.
  • Open Key does not allow more than two animals per property.
  • Open Key abides by all laws related to assistance and emotional support animals.

• What are Open Key’s office hours?

  Office hours are by appointment only:

  • Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Central Time
  • Friday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Central Time

Open Key Property Management reserves the right to modify, amend, or update policies and procedures as necessary. For the most current and accurate information, please refer to our website or contact our office directly.