Leasing Services

To search the MLS for lease properties, 

1. Click here for unlimited access to >> MLS LISTINGS <<

2. On the Top-Left, Select the search tab titled, 'Find A Home'

3. Under the 'Criteria' section 'Property Type', select "Residential Lease' and input any other criteria you'd like to see, then click APPLY.

4. You can also sign up and save any favorite properties for future reference on your profile.

5. You can also run your very own background and credit check before finding a new home to lease. You can submit this report along with your lease application for the home you are interested in.

As a tenant, it's important to be aware of your rights to ensure that you're being treated fairly and lawfully by your landlord. Here's a guide to understanding your tenant's rights:

1. Right to a habitable dwelling: As a tenant, you have the right to live in a dwelling that's safe, clean and meets the basic requirements for health and safety. This includes working plumbing and heating, a secure building, and no pest infestations. If any of these basic requirements aren't met, you have the right to request that your landlord make repairs.

2. Right to privacy: Your landlord can't enter your home without your permission unless there's an emergency, you've given them notice, or it's outlined in your lease agreement.

3. Right to a written lease agreement: A lease agreement outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy, including the rental amount, length of the lease, and any restrictions on the property. It's important to read your lease agreement carefully before signing it.

4. Right to quiet enjoyment: You have the right to peaceful enjoyment of your rental unit without interference from your landlord. This includes the right to not be harassed, intimidated, or discriminated against.

5. Right to notice before eviction: If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you notice and follow the proper legal procedures. In most cases, you have the right to contest the eviction in court.

6. Right to fair housing: It's illegal for a landlord to discriminate against tenants based on their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or family status.

7. Right to a security deposit: If your landlord requires a security deposit, they must return it to you at the end of your tenancy, minus any deductions for damages or unpaid rent.

It's important to note that tenant's rights can vary by state and local laws, so it's important to research and understand the specific laws in your area. If you feel that your rights are being violated, you may want to consider contacting a local tenant's rights organization or an attorney who specializes in landlord-tenant law.

To learn more about your rights as a tenant see the link below for the Tenants' Rights Handbook. The TX State library also provides more information to Landlords and Tenants Landlord/Tenant Forms - browse their site for more information.

Affordable housing is a crucial need for many families and individuals in Travis County and Williamson County, Texas. Fortunately, there are a variety of affordable housing programs available to help those in need.

Travis County offers several affordable housing programs, including the Homeownership Assistance Program, Rental Assistance Program, and the Community Land Trust Program. These programs provide financial assistance to eligible households in the form of down payment assistance, rental subsidies, and affordable homeownership opportunities.

The Homeownership Assistance Program provides eligible households with up to $40,000 in down payment assistance for the purchase of a home within Travis County. The Rental Assistance Program offers rental subsidies to low-income households, with the goal of helping these families achieve housing stability. The Community Land Trust Program provides affordable homeownership opportunities by selling homes at below-market prices and requiring that the buyer agrees to resale restrictions.

Similarly, Williamson County has several affordable housing programs, including the Homeownership Program and the Emergency Repair Program. These programs provide financial assistance to eligible households in the form of down payment assistance and emergency home repairs.

The Homeownership Program provides eligible households with up to $25,000 in down payment assistance for the purchase of a home within Williamson County. The Emergency Repair Program offers financial assistance to low-income households to address critical repairs that affect the health and safety of the occupants.

To access more information on these programs, including eligibility requirements and application processes, visit the Williamson County website at https://www.wilco.org/Departments/Housing-Community-Development.

Additionally, both Travis and Williamson counties offer lists of available affordable housing properties. These lists are updated regularly and can be accessed through the following links:

• Travis County: https://www.tchfc.org/housing-services/affordable-housing-listings/

• Williamson County: https://www.wilco.org/Departments/Housing-Community-Development/Affordable-Housing-Resources/Affordable-Housing-Listings

• Federally Subsidized Housing 

It's important to note that the demand for affordable housing often exceeds the supply, so it's important to apply as soon as possible and carefully review the eligibility requirements for each program.

If you are a tenant of affordable housing in Austin, TX, and you are experiencing crime or mischief at your complex, it's important to know where you can file complaints and get help.

One resource is the Austin Police Department. If you are in immediate danger or witness a crime, call 911 right away. For non-emergency situations, you can call the Austin Police Department at 311 or (512) 974-2000. They can provide assistance and resources for dealing with criminal activity at your complex.

You can also contact the Austin Tenants Council, a non-profit organization that provides free information and referral services to tenants. They can help you understand your rights as a tenant and provide guidance on how to file complaints against your landlord or complex for issues related to safety and security. You can reach the Austin Tenants Council at (512) 474-1961.

Additionally, you can contact the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA), which manages public housing and affordable housing programs in Austin. They have a Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program that provides financial assistance to eligible low-income households. You can reach HACA at (512) 477-4488.

Remember, you have the right to live in a safe and secure environment. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and support if you are experiencing crime or mischief at your complex.

Tenant's Rights:

If you are a homeowner managing your own rental property, it is important to understand the rights of your tenants. As a landlord, you have a legal obligation to provide safe and habitable housing for your tenants, and there are a number of laws that protect their rights.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Fair Housing Laws: The Fair Housing Act protects tenants from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. It is important to ensure that all tenants are treated equally and fairly throughout the rental process.

2. Maintenance and Repairs: You are responsible for maintaining the property and making repairs as needed to ensure that it is safe and habitable. This includes ensuring that the property has functioning heating, plumbing, and electrical systems, as well as addressing any pest infestations or other hazards.

3. Security Deposits: Most states have laws regulating security deposits, which are meant to protect tenants in case of damage to the property or unpaid rent. You should make sure to follow these laws and provide tenants with a written statement of the amount and terms of the security deposit.

4. Privacy: Tenants have the right to privacy and you cannot enter their rental unit without giving reasonable notice, except in cases of emergency.

5. Evictions: If you need to evict a tenant for any reason, it is important to follow the legal process outlined in your state's landlord-tenant laws. You cannot evict a tenant without a court order.

By understanding your tenants' rights and following housing laws, you can help ensure that you are providing a safe and fair living environment for your tenants. If you have any questions about your legal obligations as a landlord, it may be helpful to consult with a local attorney or housing agency. And Make sure you read and understand the 'Tenant's Rights Handbook.' 

When you own a rental property, it's important to be aware of vacancy costs. Vacancy cost is the amount of money you lose while your rental property is vacant and not generating any rental income. This can include a variety of expenses such as mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance costs, and advertising expenses to find new tenants.

Here are some tips and information to keep in mind as a homeowner managing your own property to help minimize vacancy costs:

1. Market your property effectively: Ensure that your rental property is visible to potential tenants through online listings and rental platforms, signage, and other advertising methods. Additionally, make sure your property is priced competitively in the market to attract tenants.

2. Screen tenants thoroughly: The last thing you want is to rent to a tenant who is not financially stable or may have a history of late payments. Conduct thorough background and credit checks on potential tenants before signing a lease agreement to reduce the risk of future vacancies due to unpaid rent.

3. Address maintenance issues quickly: Keep your property in good condition by addressing maintenance issues promptly. This can help prevent issues from escalating and causing further damage, which can lead to a longer vacancy and higher repair costs.

4. Offer incentives to renew leases: Consider offering current tenants incentives to renew their leases, such as a small rent discount or a gift card. This can help reduce turnover and vacancy costs.

5. Have a contingency plan: Always have a contingency plan in place in case your property becomes vacant unexpectedly. This could include setting aside a portion of your rental income to cover potential vacancy costs or having a plan in place to quickly find new tenants.

By understanding vacancy costs and taking proactive steps to minimize them, you can help ensure that your rental property remains profitable and a valuable investment for years to come.

Normal wear-and-tear refers to the expected deterioration that occurs to a property over time, resulting from regular use and aging. It includes minor scuffs, carpet wear in high-traffic areas, and faded paint. Property managers should not charge tenants for these types of damages as they are considered part of the property's natural aging process.

Tenant Charges:

Tenants may be charged for damages beyond normal wear-and-tear that exceed the tenant's responsibilities outlined in the lease agreement. Examples include significant wall damage, broken fixtures, excessive carpet stains, or missing appliances. Property managers should conduct a thorough move-in and move-out inspection with the tenant to document any pre-existing damage and assess any new damages upon the tenant's departure.

When Tenants Can Be Charged:

Typically, tenants can be charged for damages after they have vacated the property and completed the move-out process. Property managers should provide an itemized list of deductions from the security deposit along with any supporting documentation, such as repair receipts or photographs.

If a Property Manager Holds the Tenant's Deposit Hostage:

If a tenant believes their deposit is being wrongfully withheld or held hostage by a property manager, they can take the following steps:

1. Review the Lease Agreement: Carefully review the lease agreement to understand the terms and conditions regarding the return of the security deposit.

2. Communicate with the Property Manager: Contact the property manager to discuss the situation and inquire about the reasons for withholding the deposit. Document all communication in writing.

3. Demand Letter: If initial communication does not resolve the issue, the tenant can send a demand letter requesting the return of the deposit within a specified timeframe. Seek legal advice to ensure the letter is properly drafted.

4. Small Claims Court or Mediation: If the property manager continues to withhold the deposit, the tenant may choose to file a claim in small claims court or explore mediation options. Consult with an attorney or seek guidance from your local housing authority for further assistance.

Charging Tenants:

Property managers should follow applicable local laws and regulations when charging tenants for damages. They should provide an itemized list of deductions, including repair costs, and return any remaining portion of the security deposit within the required timeframe specified by local laws.

It's important to note that the information provided here is general in nature and may not cover all aspects or specific legal requirements of your jurisdiction. It's always recommended to consult with a qualified attorney or legal professional for advice tailored to your particular situation.

Tenants seeking legal advice can reach out to local tenant advocacy organizations, legal aid societies, or consult with a real estate attorney specializing in tenant rights. Property managers can consult with real estate attorneys who specialize in landlord-tenant law or seek guidance from professional organizations such as local real estate associations or property management associations.