Property Management FAQs

• Do you charge any fees beyond the management fee?

  No. Homestead Charleston operates on a single-fee model for property management. The 15% monthly management fee covers the full scope of services. There are no leasing fees, marketing fees, maintenance coordination fees, renewal fees, or administrative add-ons.

• How is rent collected and when do I get paid?

  Rent is collected directly from residents through established payment systems. Owner disbursements are made via direct deposit on a consistent monthly schedule after rent is collected and any approved expenses are processed.

• Can you deposit funds directly into my bank account?

  Yes. All owner disbursements are made via ACH direct deposit for efficiency and reliability.

• Do I get to review or sign the lease?

  As the managing agent, Homestead Charleston executes the lease on the owner’s behalf. Our lease agreements are standardized, legally compliant, and designed to protect both the property and the owner. This approach ensures consistency, reduces risk, and allows us to fully stand behind lease enforcement and compliance.

• How do you screen tenants?

  Tenant screening includes background and credit review, income verification, and evaluation of rental history. Our focus is on placing qualified, reliable residents, not simply filling vacancies.

• How long are lease terms?

  Lease terms are determined based on market conditions and property considerations. Standard lease terms are typically twelve months, though alternative terms may be considered when appropriate.

• How much security deposit do you charge?

  Security deposits are set in accordance with market standards and applicable laws. The specific amount is determined based on rent level and risk considerations.

• Who holds the tenant security deposit?

  Security deposits are held in accordance with state and local regulations, typically in a designated trust account with Homestead Charleston.

• How is maintenance handled if something breaks?

  Maintenance is handled proactively and responsively as part of standard management. Homestead Charleston coordinates vendors, oversees repairs, and ensures work is completed properly. There are no maintenance coordination fees or markups for standard oversight.

• Do you handle evictions if needed?

  Yes. While our screening process minimizes risk, Homestead Charleston manages simple, uncontested evictions and coordinates the legal process when required. Coverage details are outlined in the management agreement.

• Are you licensed and insured?

  Yes. Homestead Charleston is properly licensed and insured in accordance with state and local requirements.

• How soon can you start managing my property?

  Management can begin once agreements are signed and the property is ready for transition. Timing depends on the condition of the property and current occupancy status.

• What types of properties do you manage?

  We manage residential rental properties, including single-family homes and select multi-unit properties, with a focus on quality over volume.

• What reports do I receive?

  Owners receive clear monthly financial statements and ongoing documentation related to maintenance and property activity, all accessible through the owner portal.

Estate Management FAQs

• How is Estate Management priced?

  Estate Management is provided under a flat monthly retainer. Pricing is based on the size, complexity, and usage of the home. This retainer covers oversight, coordination, and management services as outlined in the Estate Management scope.

• Are services billed per visit or per request?

  The monthly retainer covers core oversight and management. Additional site visits or owner-requested services may be billed separately based on scope and frequency.

• What is included in the Estate Management retainer?

  The retainer includes inspections, preventative maintenance coordination, vendor oversight, home watch, concierge and arrival preparation, capital planning support, reporting, and acting as your local representative.

• What costs are not included in the retainer?

  There will be some pre-arranged labor and materials included in the estate care management contract.

• Do you live locally and respond to issues on-site?

  Yes. Homestead Charleston serves as a local, on-the-ground representative and coordinates on-site response as needed.

• How often is my home inspected or monitored?

  Inspection and monitoring frequency is determined by the home’s usage, systems, and owner preferences. Home Watch visits are typically weekly or bi-weekly, with additional oversight as needed.

• Will I receive reports or updates?

  Yes. All inspections, home watch visits, and notable activity are documented with reports and photos when applicable. Owners remain informed without managing details.

• Can you manage vendors and projects on my behalf?

  Yes. Vendor management and project oversight are core components of Estate Management. Homestead Charleston coordinates, supervises, and holds vendors accountable from start to finish.

• Do you offer concierge services for arrivals or guests?

  We do not offer this service yet.

• Is Estate Management the same as Property Management?

  No. Estate Management is designed for non-rental homes and focuses on preservation, oversight, and long-term care. Property Management applies to income-producing rental properties and operates under a different pricing model.

• Who is Estate Management a good fit for?

  Estate Management is best suited for owners who want a trusted local representative managing their home proactively, without transactional billing or hands-on involvement.