Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions - All East Bay Properties Management Services

Find answers to your questions about our East Bay property management services—from pricing and tenant placement to maintenance, rent collection, and how we use technology to simplify property ownership and renting.

Company Information

When was All East Bay Properties founded?

All East Bay Properties was founded on September 1st, 2005 by Jason Crouch, Broker/Owner. We have over 20 years of experience managing residential rental properties throughout the East Bay.

What is your California broker license number?

Our CalDRE license number is 01516255.

What areas do you serve in the East Bay?

We proudly serve property owners and tenants throughout the East Bay region, including Emeryville, Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, Richmond, Pinole, El Cerrito, and surrounding communities. If you’re unsure whether your property falls within our service area, just give us a call – we’re always happy to discuss your specific location!

What are your office hours and contact information?

Our office is located at 2324 Powell St, Emeryville, CA 94608. You can reach us at 510-450-3800 or email [email protected]. For maintenance emergencies, our 24/7 call center is always available. Visit AllEastBayProperties.com for more information.

What makes All East Bay Properties different from other property managers?

We offer some of the lowest fees in the region, deep local expertise in East Bay regulations, ownership and brokerage experience in the area, cutting-edge technology including AI leasing, transparent pricing with no markups, 24/7 bilingual support, and over 20 years of experience managing 550+ East Bay properties. We give each client and property individual attention.

For Property Owners

Getting Started

How do I get started with All East Bay Properties?

It’s easy! Simply contact us for a free consultation. We’ll discuss your property, your goals, and how we can help. We’ll provide a clear proposal with our services and fees, and if it’s a good fit, we can typically have your property under management within a week or two. To get started call 510-450-3800 or fill out our owner information form

What do I need to provide to begin property management services?

We’ll need basic property information, any existing lease agreements, keys and access information, and details about current tenants (if applicable). We’ll walk you through everything step-by-step – our onboarding process is designed to be smooth and straightforward.

Can you take over management of properties with existing tenants?

Yes, we can seamlessly assume management of current leases and tenants. We conduct inspections, establish communication with existing tenants, and ensure a smooth transition to our management.

Can I manage my property remotely or from overseas?

Yes, many of our owners live outside California or even overseas. You can access everything online through your owner portal: financial statements, reports, maintenance requests, and digital signatures for documents. We handle all local requirements on your behalf. [See our long term client, Ruth’s, story on youtube]

Pricing & Fees

How much does property management cost?

Our standard management fee is competitive and transparent – typically ranging from 5-8% of the monthly rent collected, depending on the location, scope of services and number of properties. We also offer volume discounts for owners with multiple properties. There are no hidden fees, and we’ll provide you with a detailed breakdown during our initial consultation.

Are there any additional fees I should know about?

We believe in transparency! Beyond our management fee, the only additional charges would be for specific services like tenant placement (typically 50% of one month’s rent for a new lease for our management clients or 75% of one month’s rent for placement only). We’ll always discuss any potential costs with you before proceeding with any work.

Do you charge setup or cancellation fees?

No. We don’t charge any setup fees to begin service, and we allow cancellation with 30 days’ notice with no penalties. Our agreements are month-to-month with no long-term contracts required.

Do you mark up maintenance costs?

No. We pass through maintenance costs exactly as billed with no added markups. You receive transparent, itemized invoices for all work performed.

Is there a minimum contract term?

No. Our management agreements are month-to-month and can be canceled with 30 days’ notice. We don’t lock you into long-term contracts.

Core Services

What property management services do you offer?

We provide comprehensive property management including: tenant screening and placement, rent collection, maintenance coordination, regular property inspections, detailed financial reporting, lease enforcement, eviction processing if necessary, and 24/7 emergency maintenance support. Think of us as your one-stop solution for stress-free property ownership. Learn more about our Property Management Services here.

What is included in your monthly operations services?

We advertise on over 30 popular rental sites, show your property to prospects seven days a week, and handle all inquiries and paperwork. We use LISA, our AI leasing agent, to respond to prospects instantly 24/7, which helps fill vacancies faster.

Tenant Screening & Placement

How do you screen potential tenants?

We conduct thorough tenant screening including credit checks, employment and income verification, and rental history reviews. Our rigorous process helps ensure reliable tenants who pay on time and take care of your property. We abide by all fair housing laws and local regulations such as Oakland’s “Ronald V. Dellums and Simarashe Sherry Fair Chance Access to Housing Ordinance No 13581 C.M.S. (O.M.C. 8.25)”. We’ve developed our screening criteria over years of experience to protect your investment.

What is your tenant screening process?

Our comprehensive screening includes online application acceptance, employment verification, rental reference checks, and complete screening reports from our integrated AppFolio system. We negotiate terms and obtain your approval before executing any lease.

How long does it take to find tenants?

Leasing times vary by market conditions, but we advertise on 30+ sites and use AI automation through LISA to respond to prospects instantly. This technology helps us fill vacancies faster than traditional methods.

How quickly can you list a property for rent?

Most properties are photographed, prepared, and listed within 3–5 days of onboarding, faster if needed.

How do you market vacant rental properties?

We advertise on over 30 popular rental sites, show your property to prospects seven days a week, and handle all inquiries and paperwork. We use LISA, our AI leasing agent, to respond to prospects instantly 24/7, which helps fill vacancies faster.

Do you handle Section 8 or subsidized housing?

Yes, we have extensive experience managing Section 8 properties. We handle all inspections, rent calculations, paperwork, and communication with housing authorities on your behalf.

Maintenance & Repairs

Do you handle maintenance requests?

Absolutely! We have a network of licensed, insured contractors and handle all maintenance requests from start to finish. For emergencies, our bilingual hotline and tenant portal is available 24/7. For routine maintenance, we’ll get your approval for any work over an agreed-upon amount (typically $300). You’ll receive updates and documentation for all work completed.

Do you handle maintenance for rental properties?

Yes. We coordinate 24/7 tenant maintenance requests using vetted, licensed vendors and provide full documentation for owners.

Do you handle maintenance and repairs?

Yes, we manage all maintenance and repairs 24/7 with bilingual support in English and Spanish. We coordinate vendors, handle routine repairs up to $300 without prior approval, bill tenants for damages caused by their negligence, and provide itemized invoices and work order copies.

Rent Collection & Financial Management

How do you handle rent collection?

Tenants can pay rent online 24/7 through our secure tenant portal powered by AppFolio. We immediately follow up on late rents and returned checks, post legal notices as appropriate, and our automated system dramatically reduces delinquencies.

How often will I receive financial reports?

Property owners receive detailed monthly statements showing all income and expenses, including rent collected, maintenance costs, and our management fees. You’ll also have 24/7 access to our owner portal where you can view real-time financial information, maintenance requests, and property documents.

What reports and statements will I receive as an owner?

You receive monthly statements showing all income and expenses, year-to-date cash flow reports, itemized maintenance invoices, work order copies, and annual tax reports (1099-MISC and detailed income/expense summary). All documents are accessible 24/7 through your secure owner portal.

Do you provide tax documents and financial reports?

Yes, every January we issue a 1099-MISC form and provide detailed annual income and expense reports for your tax records. You also receive monthly statements and year-to-date cash flow reports throughout the year.

How do you handle security deposits?

We process all security deposits through proper trust accounting, manage security deposit returns with full legal compliance, and provide detailed accounting. We bill tenants for any repairs due to their negligence and ensure all procedures follow California law.

Property Inspections & Turnovers

Do you conduct property inspections?

Yes, we proactively inspect and document your property condition before and after each tenant to ensure it’s rent-ready for maximum rental income. We also conduct move-out inspections with complete cost allocation for any needed cleaning or repairs.

How do you handle unit turns between tenants?

We coordinate all renovation and cleaning between tenants to ensure your property is rent-ready. This includes inspections, cost allocation for repairs, vendor coordination, and preparing the unit to attract quality tenants and maximize rental income.

Lease Execution

What happens during the lease execution process?

Once you approve a tenant, we execute the lease with electronic signatures via DocuSign, process all funds through trust accounting, deduct the placement fee, coordinate key handover and move-in procedures, and send you a check along with a copy of the signed lease.

Technology & Tools

What technology platform do you use?

We exclusively use AppFolio Property Management Platform, which provides online applications, comprehensive screening, electronic leasing via DocuSign, secure online payments, inspections and maintenance tracking, and secure personalized accounts for both owners and tenants.

What is LISA and how does it help?

LISA (Leasing Intelligence System Assistant) is our AI leasing agent that handles inquiries 24/7, instantly responds to rental leads, schedules showings, pre-screens tenants by gathering income and credit information, answers questions about lease terms and amenities, and nurtures leads until they’re ready to tour. This filters unqualified leads early and fills vacancies faster.

How do you qualify tenants with LISA?

LISA uses natural language processing to pre-screen tenants by gathering essential details like income and credit score, then integrates seamlessly with AppFolio for streamlined applicant screening. This filters out unqualified leads early and delivers pre-screened, motivated prospects to our team.

Choosing a Property Manager

How should I choose a property manager?

Look for experience managing properties in your specific area, transparency in fees and services, thorough knowledge of local regulations and rent control laws, strong communication and responsiveness, modern technology platforms, and a proven track record. We’ve managed over 550 East Bay properties for more than 20 years and are experts in local compliance. Check out our informative video on How to Find a Property Manager.

For Tenants

Finding a Rental

I’m looking to rent – do you have available properties?

Yes! We typically have a variety of rental properties available throughout the East Bay. You can view current listings here, or contact us directly to discuss your needs. We’re committed to helping you find a great place to call home.

Application Process

Can I apply if I have a co-signer?

Yes! If you don’t meet the income requirements on your own, you can apply with a qualified co-signer. The co-signer must be local and meet all income and credit requirements and will be equally responsible for the lease obligations.

What if I have a low credit score or past credit issues?

We review each application individually. While we prefer a credit score of 700+, we consider your entire financial picture including rental history, income stability, and explanations for negative items. A larger security deposit or local co-signer may be required in some cases. Requirements may vary by property.

Can international applicants apply?

Yes! International applicants are welcome. You’ll need a valid visa, passport, proof of income (or qualified U.S.-based co-signer), and may be required to pay additional security deposit if you have no U.S. credit history. Pre-paid rent may also be considered.

What happens if my application is denied?

We’ll provide you with a written explanation of the denial including specific reasons. You have the right to dispute any inaccurate information. Application fees are non-refundable even if your application is denied.

Can I hold a property before applying?

We cannot hold properties without an approved application. Properties are available on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants. We recommend applying quickly if you’re interested in a property.

Lease Terms & Policies

How long is the lease term?

Most of our properties require a 12-month lease. Some properties may offer 6-month or month-to-month options at different rental rates. Lease terms are specified in each property listing.

Are pets allowed?

Pet policies vary by property. Many of our properties are pet-friendly! Monthly pet rent may apply. Some breed and size restrictions may apply. Service and emotional support animals are handled according to Fair Housing laws.

What utilities are included in the rent?

Utility responsibilities vary by property and are clearly stated in the listing and lease agreement. Typically, tenants are responsible for electricity, gas, internet, and cable. Some properties may include water, trash, and sewer.

Do you accept Section 8 or housing vouchers?

Yes, we follow all fair housing laws regardless of source of income.

Rent Payment

Can tenants pay rent online?

Yes, tenants have access to a secure 24/7 online portal through AppFolio where they can make one-time or recurring rent payments by bank account or credit card, view payment history, and receive instant receipts.

Maintenance & Support

How do I submit a maintenance request as a tenant?

Tenants can submit maintenance requests 24/7 through our tenant portal, by phone, or via email. For emergencies (like major leaks, no heat, or security issues), call our emergency line immediately. We prioritize quick response times to keep you comfortable in your home.

How can tenants submit maintenance requests?

Tenants can submit maintenance requests 24/7 through our online tenant portal or by calling our bilingual call center. We track all requests, coordinate vendors, and provide transparent updates on repair status.

Have a question we didn’t answer? Contact All East Bay Properties today – we’re here to help!