Tenant Resources & FAQ

Florida law does not cap security deposits for residential rentals — landlords typically charge one to two months' rent. Nicole will always clarify the deposit amount before you tour or apply, so there are no surprises.

Florida law requires landlords to return your deposit within 15 days of lease end (if keeping the full deposit) or 30 days if making deductions, with an itemized written notice.

Pet policies vary by property. Many South Florida landlords allow pets with a non-refundable pet fee (typically $200–$500) or an additional monthly pet rent ($25–$75/month). Some properties are breed or size restricted.

When you inquire with Nicole about a specific rental, make sure to mention your pet(s) upfront — she'll filter properties based on your needs so you only tour pet-friendly options.

Most residential leases in South Florida run 12 months. Some landlords offer 6-month or month-to-month arrangements, often at a premium. Longer leases (24 months) may be available and sometimes come with better rates.

Nicole will negotiate lease terms on your behalf and ensure the language protects your interests as a tenant.

This varies by property. In most South Florida single-family and townhome rentals, tenants pay electricity, water/sewer, trash, internet, and renter's insurance. Some apartment buildings include water/trash in the rent.

Nicole always reviews the lease with you so you know exactly what's included before you sign.

Renter's insurance covers your personal belongings in case of theft, fire, water damage, or other covered events. Many landlords in South Florida now require it as part of the lease. Policies typically cost $15–$30/month — very affordable for the coverage provided.

Nicole strongly recommends it to all renters, regardless of requirement. She can point you toward reliable providers if needed.

Once your application is approved and you've signed the lease and paid first month + security deposit, move-in timing is coordinated with the landlord. It's typically within 2–14 days depending on the property. Nicole facilitates this process so move-in happens on a timeline that works for you.

Florida law allows landlords to pursue remaining rent owed on the lease, though they are required to make reasonable efforts to find a new tenant (mitigate damages). Many leases include an early termination clause — typically 1–2 months' rent as a buyout.

Nicole reviews lease terms with every client before signing so you understand your exit options.

CAM stands for Common Area Maintenance. In multi-tenant commercial buildings, CAM charges cover shared costs like landscaping, parking lot maintenance, hallway cleaning, and building management fees. They are typically charged per square foot on top of base rent.

Nicole always requests and reviews the CAM reconciliation history for any commercial property before you sign, so you know what to expect year over year.

Commercial leases in South Florida typically range from 2 to 10 years, depending on the property type and landlord. Retail and restaurant spaces often require 5-year minimums. Shorter-term (1–2 year) leases are available in some flex and co-working spaces, often at a premium rate.

Nicole will negotiate term length and build-out allowances on your behalf.

A Tenant Improvement allowance is money the landlord contributes toward customizing the space for your specific business needs — fixtures, flooring, walls, HVAC upgrades, etc. It's often negotiable, especially in longer leases. Nicole negotiates TI allowances as part of every commercial lease discussion.

Zoning requirements vary by municipality across South Florida (Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, etc.). Nicole will verify that any commercial space she shows you is appropriately zoned for your specific business type before you invest time or money into the space. She works with local zoning regulations across all markets she serves.

For significant commercial leases (over 2,000 sq ft or multi-year terms), Nicole recommends having a commercial real estate attorney review the final lease before signing. She can refer you to trusted local counsel. Her job is to negotiate the best deal — the attorney's job is to protect you legally.

In commercial leasing, the landlord or seller typically pays the commission — not the tenant or buyer. This means Nicole's representation usually costs you nothing directly. She'll always disclose the commission structure before any engagement so there are no surprises.

From accepted offer to closing, most South Florida purchases take 30–45 days with financing, or as little as 14–21 days in cash transactions. The full home search process varies widely — Nicole will set realistic timelines based on your budget, needs, and current market inventory.

In South Florida specifically, pay attention to: roof age and condition (major cost), HVAC condition and age, hurricane impact windows, evidence of water intrusion or mold, plumbing condition, and flood zone status. Nicole will recommend a trusted home inspector and walk you through the report so you understand what you're buying.

In Florida, buyers typically pay 2–5% of the purchase price in closing costs, including title insurance, lender fees, prepaid insurance and property taxes, and recording fees. Sellers typically pay agent commissions and documentary stamp taxes on the deed. Nicole will provide a detailed estimate before you make any offer.

Yes — Nicole has experience working with out-of-state and cross-country buyers. She is comfortable conducting virtual tours, coordinating remote paperwork, and managing the entire process on your behalf. Several of her five-star reviews come specifically from relocation clients. Just let her know your situation and she'll adapt to it.

Pre-qualification is an informal estimate of what you might borrow based on self-reported information. Pre-approval is a formal lender commitment based on verified income, assets, and credit — it carries far more weight with sellers. Nicole recommends arriving with a pre-approval letter before making any offer in the current South Florida market.