What makes Townsend Management different from other companies?
We love our tenants!
We manage rental properties in the DeKalb, Illinois area near Northern Illinois University. The level of service and policies vary between property owners that we represent. Not all properties are run the same way under our management umbrella. We offer everything from executive level housing that provides 24 hour service to economy housing that requires substantial self-help maintenance. We have properties that are pet friendly and those that are pet free. We have properties that offer one year leases. We have properties where everyone in an apartment signs the same lease and even have properties that allow individuals to sign separate leases for their “share” of same apartments. This individualized property policy approach offers flexibility.
We are here to help you match your housing needs with your budget and your lifestyle. We want to find the home that is right for you. Please let us know your needs and your concerns.
I see an apartment I am interested in. What should I do next?
We ask that you call our office at 815-787-RENT (7368) to schedule a private showing of the locations you’d like to see.
Do you accept Walk-in Appointments?
As part of the City Ordinance Chapter 10, all landlords are required to provide tenants with at least a 1 hour notice prior to showing an occupied apartment. All of our apartments are tenant occupied. We respect their privacy and try provide as much notice as possible. Although we might be able to squeeze you in with another scheduled appointment or show you a vacant unit, we think that individual attention to your needs is best and request that you call to reserve your tour. Remember in another year you may be living in an apartment we want to show to a prospective renter. This is your opportunity to see first hand that we respect our tenants and their privacy.
When should I turn in a lease application?
Applications should be submitted after you have made your final apartment selection and are ready to execute a lease. The credit process only takes a few minutes. Co-signers must either sign the application in our office or have their signatures notarized.
Applications are available at our office or you can click the link below for an online version to print out.
What is needed to sign a lease?
To sign a lease you must turn in completed applications for all adult residents to occupy the apartment, pay the security deposit equal to one month’s rent, and review and complete the lease documents.
Do I need a co-signer?
Co-signers are not always necessary. Factors include established credit, rental history, income and existing debts.
However, we strongly recommend that student applicants utilize the “parental guarantee form”. This unique form allows parents to guarantee a specified dollar amount each month towards the rental obligation. Under a typical joint tenancy lease, each tenant is 100% responsible for the entire rental amount due on the lease, this form helps to safeguard that responsible roommates are not left “holding the bag” if there is a problem with a non-paying roommate down the line.
Are Prepaid Rents Required?
Prepaid rent requirements are established by each individual property owner. A general policy is listed below. Please check with us to verify the particular requirements of any given property address.
What if my roommate doesn’t pay their share of rent?
It is very important to select roommates carefully. Most properties use a joint tenancy lease which states that all residents signed to a lease are responsible for the entire balance due each month. Often this is where a parent guarantee to cover your part of the rent can be helpful.
When do you start leasing for the upcoming fall semester?
We begin showing our model apartments and townhomes in mid-November.
How much is the security deposit?
The security deposit is equal to one month’s rent.
When is rent due?
Rent is due on the day your lease states.
How do I pay rent?
We accept cash, checks, or money orders. You may mail payments to the office or leave payments in the office drop box. Cash will only be accepted during office hours. Never mail cash or leave cash in the office drop box. Credit and debit cards are not accepted at this time for rental payments.
Can I have pets?
At this time, we allow pets at certain locations only, for an additional fee.
What do I do if I have a maintenance problem?
You may call our office at 815-787-RENT (7368) to report any maintenance issue. If you prefer, you may complete the “Maintenance Request Form” on our Home Page.
What happens if I have an emergency after hours?
In the event of an after-hours emergency, please contact the office at 815-787-RENT (7368). The emergency contact number will be stated on the outgoing message.
What is considered a maintenance emergency?
Maintenance emergencies may include leaking water, heat issues, and deadbolt problems. Air conditioning issues are not considered emergencies, but they are handled as quickly as possible.
What if I lock myself out of my apartment?
During business hours, you may borrow a key from the office at no charge. After business hours, you may call the emergency number. A fee will be charged for sending a representative to unlock the door.
If you have any additional questions please contact us at (815) 787-7368.