Leasing FAQ

Leasing FAQs


Getting Started

  • What are the requirements to lease a home with Onyx?

    We do not discriminate against residents or prospective residents based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, or age. Some of the main requirements we look for are favorable credit, a combined monthly income 2.5 times the gross monthly rent, 12 months of positive rental history or mortgage payment history, and no evictions within the last 7 years. If you don’t meet these criteria, we may accept an additional deposit or co-signer. Please contact leasing@onyxpropertymanager.com for more details. 


  • What properties do you have for rent?

    We have many awesome properties for lease! Check out our listings under the Availability tab of our website onyxpropertymanager.com.

  • What if I don’t have a smartphone?

    A smart phone is not required to view most of our units. You can view them online on a computer or send an email to leasing@onyxpropertymanager.com and we can provide more information on how to view an available apartment. We have open houses, private showings and self-showings using a lockbox. You can also call us at 619-804-3325 and we will find a solution that works for you.


  • How do I apply after I see the property?

    To apply for the home, you can visit onyxpropertymanager.com,  find the unit you are interested in, and click on the Apply Now button OR respond to our previous messages and let us know that you want to apply. 


  • Who can answer questions after I view the property?

    You may send us a message by emailing jason@onyxpropertymanager.com or by calling one of our property managers, Jason, at 858-243-3434.



  • Can I see an apartment or home more than once?

    Absolutely. You can schedule either self-showings or appointments depending on the property. Please contact our leasing department for more details. 


  • There is something wrong with the home. What do I do?

    Let us know! Please email us at leasing@onyxpropertymanager.com or 619-804-3325.


  • What if I forgot to turn off the lights or lock the door?

    Please let us know by emailing us at leasing@onyxpropertymanager.com or 619-804-3325. 


  • What if I forgot to put the key back?

    Please return to the lockbox and enter the same access code given to you to return the keys. 


  • Someone else is at the home during my time. What should I do?

    We recommend waiting until the previous tour is complete prior to entering the home. Please contact our leasing line at 619-804-3325 for additional assistance, if needed.


  • There was no key in the lockbox. What do I do?

    Please call us at 619-804-3325.


  • My lockbox code isn’t working. What do I do?

    If you cannot access the keys in the lockbox and you are at the property, please contact us for support at 619-804-3325.


  • What do I do if I can’t find the lockbox?

    If you cannot locate the lockbox and you are at the property, please contact us for support at 619-804-3325.


  • How do I use the a lockbox?

    Turn the dials to the code that was provided and push down the black button to open the lockbox. Once complete, return the key, close the lockbox and mix the numbers. 


  • I want to change the time of my appointment. Who should I contact?

    To change the time or date of your appointment, please contact Show Mojo at 858-225-7010.


  • Can I view multiple apartments in the same building if they are available?

    Yes, let us know which apartments you are interested in viewing and we will confirm your appointment for each one.


  • Will there be anyone from Onyx at the apartment when I go to see it?

    If you have scheduled a self-showing, there will not be an Onyx agent at the property. If you are scheduled to attend an Open House there will be someone from Onyx present. 


  • What is a self-showing?

    A self-showing allows you to view a vacant property at your convenience. We will request a picture of your photo ID and send you instructions to obtain keys from a lockbox located on the property. You can tour the home on your terms without anyone else in attendance. When you are finished touring, lock the property and return the keys to the lockbox. We will follow up with you after your showing to answer any questions you have or to get you set up to apply. If you have any questions, you can always message us at leasing@onyxpropertymanager.com


  • Why do you need a copy of my ID?

    In order to minimize risk to the community or the apartment, it is important that we know who is viewing the homes. We verify your identity when you submit a photo of your government issued identification. A driver’s license or passport with your photo, legible name, and date of birth are acceptable.


  • When can I view a home or apartment?

    You may schedule a self-showing to view an available unit. To schedule a showing, please contact us Show Mojo at 858-225-7010 and follow the prompts. You will need to supply a valid government-issued photo ID. Please note, that not all properties are available for self-showing. 

Application & Approval

  • Can I complete a paper application instead of doing it online?

    We strongly encourage you to complete the application process online. The benefits of applying online are faster processing and the ability to pay online. All you need to apply online is an email address. We will also be happy to walk you through the process.


    If you are interested in applying with a paper application, contact us at leasing@onyxpropertymanager.com or 619-804-3325. We cannot guarantee that paper applications will be processed quickly.


  • What paperwork is required for Guarantors?

    A Guarantor must provide proof of income totaling 4 times the monthly rental along with a completed Guarantor application.


  • How do I apply as a Guarantor for someone?

    A Guarantor application along with proof of income can be submitted should an applicant be denied due to income only. A $40 application fee will apply. We do not accept Guarantors for credit. 


  • How does using a Guarantor work?

    A Guarantor is a qualified person who agrees to be immediately and completely responsible for rental payments if the rent payments are not made on an apartment/home by the lease holder. A Guarantor should complete an application and be approved for the responsibility. The Guarantor once approved, will sign an addendum to the main lease. The Guarantor has no rights of access to the apartment/home.  The Guarantor must reside in the United States. A Guarantor may not be used if the applicant is denied due to negative credit history.


  • What if I have an eviction on my record? Can I still be approved?

    If the eviction appears on your credit, your applications will automatically be denied if its within 7 years. Unpaid prior evictions on applications are usually declined.


  • What if I have bad credit? Can I still be approved?

    It is possible to be approved with less than perfect credit history. Credit decisions are received with “approved”, “conditionally approved” or “declined” decisions. If your application is declined or conditionally approved, we will issue a letter that will allow the household to contact the credit reporting agency to understand why a declined decision was reached.


  • What kind of background check do you run on applicants?

    We process rental applications through TransUnion Resident Screening. We process for both credit and residential evictions.


  • What documentation do you need to apply?

    Proof of income is mandatory.


    The total combined monthly income on an application needs to meet 2.5 times the total monthly rent requirement.


    If you’re a salaried employee, please submit 3 of your most recent pay stubs or bank statements (with a two month history of regular direct deposits from your employer).


    If you’re about to start a new job or have been working for less than a month, please submit your offer letter signed by an authorized company official with the company letterhead stating your start date, title and salary. Also add HR or Supervisor contact information – their name, title, phone number and email address. We will call this person to verify your employment.


    If you are self-employed, please submit the most recent W2 or 1099 forms or most recent income tax return. Please also submit the most recent bank statements for the last 3 months. Name on the bank account should match the applicant’s name and the account deposits on each statement need to meet the monthly total income requirement (when combined with the rest of the income documents).


    If you work based on commission or your income varies month to month, please submit 3 months of your most recent pay stubs. If working for less than 3 months, submit the most recent W2, 1099 or tax return from the prior year.


    You can also submit documents to show additional income sources if you want these to be considered for the monthly income requirement. Such documents are copies of the court order/awards letter for Child Support or Alimony; copy of the earnings statement/awards letter for SSI, Disability, Pension or Retirement. You must submit 3 most recent bank statements showing the amount of the deposit for any of these cases.


  • Service/Emotional Support Animals

    If you have a service or emotional support animal, you must submit a valid service/emotional support animal letter prepared by a licensed healthcare or mental health professional that includes an ESA prescription/recommendation.


  • I applied for one apartment, but I see there is another in the same building that I’d like to take. Can I also apply for that apartment?

    Yes. Contact the person you’ve been working with to complete your application process. They will assist you with the details.


  • Can I use one application form to apply for multiple rental properties?

    Possibly. Please note that properties you are interested in may have different qualifying criteria. If the qualifying criteria is identical, one application and associated fee is sufficient. If qualifying criteria is different between the properties, please consult our leasing support team for guidance.


  • Is the application fee refundable?

    The application fee is non-refundable.


  • Can I pay my application fee with a check?

    Electronic payments are the preferred method of payment.


  • What is the fee for someone to apply?

    The fee to apply is $50 per applicant. All persons 18 years or older are required to complete an application.


  • How does the application process work?

    A rental application must be completed by each occupant aged 18 years or older. We require proof of income along with an application fee of $50 per applicant.


    The steps to apply for a home with Onyx:


    • Once all applications from all persons who will lease the home have been completed, and fees have been paid, Onyx will process the application


    • Onyx will contact you with any questions or if we require further information


    • Onyx will run a credit check to verify your information.


    • If application(s) are declined or conditionally approved, the applicant will be notified of the status via email.


    • If application(s) are approved, full payment of the required deposit is due within 48 hours of approval in order to secure the unit. (Please note that the unit is NOT secured until we receive your deposit in full and lease is signed.) This will take the unit off the market for other approved applicants.


    • All residents who applied will receive a copy of the lease to sign via electronic signature through DocuSign.


Securing a Home/Apartment, Signing a Lease, and Moving In

  • How do I handle the key exchange upon move-in?

    Keys can be picked up at our office on your move in date when you come to pay the 1st month’s rent. If all funds are received prior to your move in date, you can arrange for keys to be picked up from the property via lockbox. 


  • What are the utilities that I have to pay and how are they paid?

    Utilities may be set up in a variety of ways, depending on where you live and the wishes of the property owner. In many cases, residents will be responsible for contacting the utilities companies, transferring the bills directly to their names, and paying any associated fees. A description of the most common alternative variations appears below. In all cases, you should reference your lease for specifics.


    • Separately Metered Utilities in the Resident’s Name. If your utilities are set up this way, you will need to contact the utilities company, set utilities up in your name, and pay the bill directly to the utilities companies each month. 


    • Sub-Metered Variable Billing. If your utilities are set up this way, you will receive a monthly charge on your ledger each month that varies based on the amount of utilities cost incurred. 


    • Flat Rate Billing. If your utilities are set up this way, you will receive a monthly recurring charge on your ledger for the same amount each month.


    We know that utilities payments can be complicated, so please contact your leasing representative with questions.


  • When do I sign the lease for the apartment?

    Within 2 business days of being approved for the unit to reserve the apartment.


  • How do I secure an apartment or home?

    You can secure an apartment or home by paying the deposit and signing the lease after receiving notice of application approval. Please note that the home will not be taken off the market until you pay your deposit and sign a lease. 


Common Questions

  • Are pets allowed?

    Pets are allowed at select properties, but you may be charged an additional one-time and/or recurring fee.  We typically advertise this on our listing.  As per FHA guidelines, we will consider requests for service and emotional support animals with proper documentation. Please refer to the Pet Policy tab in the Tenants drop down for more information.


  • Which pets are allowed?

    Pets are allowed at some properties, but this varies based on each property owner’s discretion. Not all listings are classified as pet-friendly. If pets are allowed, we accept the following types of pet: Dogs: We all love dogs, but there are certain breeds which are restricted due to liability. Dogs should have no history or propensity for violent actions. The dog weight limit is generally 30 pounds unless otherwise allowed by the owner. All dogs must be on-leash in common areas of any multifamily dwelling and must also be housebroken. Restricted breeds include:


    • Dobermans

    • Akitas

    • Rottweilers

    • German Shepherds

    • Boxers

    • Giant and Standard Schnauzers

    • Airedale Terriers

    • Bouvier des Flandres

    • Briards

    • Chows

    • Bullmastiff

    • American Bulldog

    • American Pit Bull

    • Sarplaninac


    Cats: Cats must be indoor cats only. They must be neutered or spayed, and the resident must provide appropriate litter box and maintain it in a clean, sanitary condition. Birds: Birds must be kept in cages at all times. Fish: The water container for fish should not be over 15 gallons. Other pets may be allowed, please contact us at leasing@onyxpropertymanager.com or 619-804-3325.



  • Are there additional deposits, fees, or rent associated with pets?

    Yes. The additional deposits are $500 /dog and $300/cat/small pet. Depending on other factors, charges may appear in the form of pet deposits, pet fees, or pet rent. Please contact your Onyx representative for details. All pet-related charges will appear in the lease.


  • What are the typical leasing terms?

    Unless otherwise indicated in the listing, a 12-month lease agreement is standard for new leases. Shorter leases can be discussed, but are not guaranteed.


  • Do you have month-to-month leases?

    Unless otherwise indicated in the listing, a 12-month lease agreement is standard for new leases.


  • How much is the security deposit for new residents?

    Typically, the minimum-security deposit is equal to one month’s rent for qualified applicants. Security deposits may be higher for conditionally-approved applicants, renters who require a guarantor, and residents with pets.


  • How many people can occupy a unit?

    Studio- 2 

    1 bedroom- 3

    2 bedroom- 5 

    3 bedroom- 6 

    4 bedroom- 7 

    5 bedroom- 8


  • Does Onyx require rental insurance?

    Onyx Property Management requires that all tenants carry renter's insurance. In the event of a break-in, fire, tenant liability, damage to personal property, flood or other loss issues, the tenant’s losses will not be covered without renter's insurance. The policies are fairly inexpensive and worth the small investment. If a tenant does not obtain a policy from an outside provider, they will be automatically enrolled in Onyx’s limited liability coverage which will satisfy our lease requirements, at a cost of $10.50/month plus a $3.00 administration fee.


  • What is pre-leasing? How does that work?

    “Pre-leasing” is a process for new potential residents to apply for and pay a deposit on an apartment/home before it is available for viewing. Pre-leasing typically applies to properties that are in the process of vacating (i.e. the previous tenant is still living there). We do not show an apartment/home until it’s ready for a new resident to move in. The advantage to pre-leasing a property is it allows you to secure an apartment/home before anyone else has a chance to do so. Photos of the apartment may be provided before the unit is ready for move in. That said, if the home is not yet ready, photos of a similar home in the complex might temporarily be posted. If the posted photos are not of the actual apartment, this will be disclosed in our listing. Either way, the tour is not available until the Onyx team has inspected and approved the apartment/home for move in. The steps to pre-lease are simple and the same for available properties.

    1. A leasing representative will let you know the date that the property is expected to be available and you can discuss your move in time frame with them.

    2. Complete an application and pay application fees.

    3. If approved, we will notify you and require a deposit and signed lease to hold the property.

    If you’re interested in an apartment that is available for pre-leasing, let your leasing representative know.


    1. A leasing representative will let you know the date that the property is expected to be available and you can discuss your move-in time frame with them.


    2. Complete an application and pay application fees.


    3. If approved, we will notify you and require a deposit and signed lease to hold the property.

    If you’re interested in an apartment that is available for pre-leasing, let your leasing representative know.


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