Tenant FAQs
Common Questions Answered for Prospective and Current Tenants
At MidSouth Home Rentals (MSHR), we believe in transparency and proactive communication. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by our prospective and current tenants.
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Do you offer month-to-month leases?
Yes, but with a 5% rent increase. Month-to-month agreements do not provide the same protections as fixed-term leases. We recommend a minimum of a 6-month lease extension for stability. Standard lease terms are 12, 18, or 24 months. Exceptions are made only for licensed real estate professionals under referral agreements. -
What are the standard lease periods?
Our typical lease term is 12 months, with options for longer terms available. -
When is rent due?
Rent is due on the 1st of each month, with a grace period until the 5th. A flat $50 late fee is charged on the 6th. -
What is your payment policy?
After your first month, rent can be paid by personal check, money order, cashier’s check, or online through the Tenant Portal. -
What are the upfront move-in costs?
- One full month's rent
- Security deposit (typically equal to one month's rent)
- All funds must be certified (cashier’s check or money order)
- If you move in mid-month, your pro-rated rent is due on the first day of the second month
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Do you accept personal checks for the first payment?
No. All initial move-in funds must be certified. Personal checks are accepted for future rent payments. -
Are there any pet fees?
Yes. If the property allows pets, all animals must be screened through PetScreening.com as part of the application process. Approval and fees are based on breed, age, and screening score.
- A minimum non-refundable pet fee of $300 per approved animal applies. This fee covers professional flea treatment and carpet cleaning upon move-out.
- Certain breed restrictions may apply—please contact our team for specifics.
- In addition, a minimum monthly pet rent of $25 per animal will be charged and may vary based on the PetScreening.com evaluation.
All pets must be fully disclosed and approved in writing prior to move-in.
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Is there after-hours emergency support?
Yes. MSHR offers 24/7 emergency maintenance to protect your safety and the property. Call our emergency line for serious issues like flooding, fire, or electrical hazards -
What is considered a maintenance emergency?
- Fire or smoke (call 911 first)
- Major flooding or burst pipes
- No heat in extreme cold or AC in extreme heat
- Gas leaks
- Security breaches or broken locks
- Any immediate danger to person or property
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How much is the application fee?
MidSouth Home Rentals does not charge an application fee. However, if your application is approved, a $50 Lease Processing Fee will apply. -
What does the application fee cover?
It covers background checks, credit screening (e.g. Equifax, TransUnion), employment verification, and rental history. -
Who must complete an application?
All adults 18 and older must submit an application with photo ID, provide proof of income, and meet the following:
- Income must equal at least 3x the monthly rent
- Minimum of 2 years of employment history
- Verified landlord references
- Minimum Credit Score of 525
- No Evictions in the past 5 years
- No Criminal Convictions for Assault, Drug Possession or Distribution, and Felonies of any kind
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How do I apply for a property?
- Complete our online rental application
- Submit required documents (ID, income, etc.)
- Applications typically process in 48-72 hours
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How do I view a property?
Call our leasing team at 901-239-1332 to schedule a private showing. -
Is my holding deposit refundable?
- Yes, if your application is denied or the home is not ready by the agreed move-in date
- No, if you’re approved and fail to sign the lease, pay move-in funds, or take possession as scheduled
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Do you allow smoking in rental homes?
No. Smoking is strictly prohibited inside any MSHR-managed property. This includes guests and visitors. Violations may result in eviction and damage charges. -
Do you allow roommates?
Yes, with conditions. All roommates must:
- Be approved in writing
- Submit a complete application
- Pass background and credit screening
- Sub-leasing is never allowed
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What if I need to terminate my lease early?
Early termination requires:
- 30-day written notice is required.
- Rent must be paid until a new tenant is secured for the property.
- A lease break fee equal to one month’s rent applies.
- Your security deposit will be forfeited.