Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How can I become a tenant of Home Rentals?
A. There are several steps involved in renting a property from Home Rentals. The first step is filling out an application and submitting a $10.00 non-refundable processing fee. Click here to download a Home Rentals application.

Q. How can I view available properties?
A. Our current tenants generally show our homes.  Once you've found a listing you're interested in viewing, visit the location, knock on the door and ask the tenant if they mind if you look around.  We only ask that you be respectful of our tenants by viewing properties during reasonable hours.

Q. Are utilities included?
A. In some buildings and town homes, trash removal is included and most are cable ready. You will be responsible for electric/gas, water, telephone, etc.

Q. Who should I contact for utility information?
A. For information about Carbondale water and sewer services visit ci.carbondale.il.us or call (618) 549-5302.  For information about Carbondale electric and gas services visit ameren.com or call (888) 789-2477.  For telephone services visit verizon.com or call (800) 483-4000.  For cable services visit mediacomcc.com or call (800) 874-2924.

Q. Are the properties furnished?
A. All of our rentals include a refrigerator and stove. Select properties may include other appliances and furnishings.

Q. When can I move in?
A. Our leases normally run from August 18th through August 12th of the following year.

Q. Can I pay by semester or in full upon execution of the lease?
A. Yes.  Please inform us of your choice when making your lease singing appointment with the receptionist.

Q. How should I place a maintenance requests?
A. It is necessary that all maintenance requests be given to office personnel, not directly to maintenance personnel in the field.  Our office is open from 9-5, Monday through Friday, and requests may be left on our answering machine during off hours.

Q. How can I renew my lease?
A. Our current tenants are given first option to renew their leases until February 1st of their current lease year. After this date, anyone can lease the residence.

Q. Will I need a parking permit?
A. Parking permits are necessary for certain apartment buildings and houses. Parking lots are towed 24 hours a day. To receive a parking permit, you will need current proof of insurance, registration and your drivers license. You must be on the least in order to be eligible for a parking permit. Guest parking is not provided. Parking permits must be renewed if you renew your lease.

Q. What do I need to do to get my security deposit back?
A. We require a written affidavit from the City of Carbondale stating that all water charges, litter and mowing citations have been paid for your residence for the entire term of your lease.  When presenting us with this affidavit, make sure to provide us with a forwarding address.  Deposit refunds are usually issued within 30 days of receipt of the affidavit.

Q. How can I ensure that I will have the fewest possible deductions?
A.  The most common deduction is for cleaning expenses.  If you do not remove all of your belongings and clean your apartment, a large amount of your deposit could be withheld.  The amount returned is not affected by the condition of the unit when you took possession. Each property is issued a standard carpet cleaning charge.  This charge varies depending on the size of your dwelling and condition of the carpet upon move-out.