Owner FAQs

Getting Started & Services

• What does Allegiance Property Management handle for me?

  Allegiance Property Management oversees the full leasing lifecycle so you don’t have to manage the day-to-day details. Our services include marketing your property, coordinating showings, screening applicants, and preparing and executing lease agreements.
  
  Once a resident is in place, we handle rent collection, owner disbursements by ACH, maintenance coordination (including emergency repairs), and ongoing resident communication. We also conduct periodic property visits, manage compliance items, and provide clear financial reporting, including monthly statements and year-end tax documents. Our role is to protect your asset, reduce vacancy and risk, and remove the operational burden of being a landlord—while keeping you informed and in control of major decisions.

• What areas do you serve?

  We serve most of Northern Virginia, including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church, and Prince William County. At this time, we do not service Loudoun County, Washington, DC, or Maryland.
  
  If your property is outside our service area, we’re happy to provide trusted recommendations. If you’re unsure whether your property falls within our service area, we’re happy to confirm during an initial consultation.

• Does Allegiance manage furnished or short-term rentals?

  No. Allegiance Property Management does not manage furnished properties or short-term rentals. We specialize exclusively in long-term residential leasing and management.

• What does the onboarding process look like?

  We start with a discovery call to learn about your property, goals, and timeline, and to confirm we’re a good fit.
  
  Next is a no-obligation site visit to assess condition, identify any recommended updates, and outline pricing and marketing strategy.
  
  Once the management agreement is signed, you’ll be introduced to your Client Success Manager, who will guide you through onboarding and account setup.

• How long does it take to get started?

  Our goal is to complete onboarding within one week of signing, with timing dependent on document turnaround.
  
  If the property is ready for market, we can move immediately—professional photos are typically scheduled right away, with a 48-hour turnaround, allowing us to list the property shortly thereafter.

• What do you need from me to begin management?

  We collect key property and ownership details through a structured onboarding process, including property information, HOA or condo documentation (if applicable), and any relevant maintenance or vendor details.
  
  You’ll also complete a W-9 and ACH authorization so we can process owner payments. This ensures everything is set up properly from day one.

• Can you help transition from my current property manager?

  Yes. We handle transitions regularly and will review your existing lease, tenant ledger, and property file to ensure a clean handoff.
  
  We can also take over management of tenant-occupied properties, whether they are currently self-managed or managed by another company. An additional onboarding fee will apply.

Leasing, Marketing & Pricing Strategy

• How do you market my property?

  We professionally market your property to attract qualified residents and minimize vacancy. This includes professional photography, a detailed floor plan, and well-written listing content designed to highlight the property’s features and location.
  
  Your property is advertised on Bright MLS and our website, which automatically syndicates the listing to dozens of third-party rental platforms. We coordinate showings, manage all inquiries from prospective residents, and handle communication from first inquiry through application.
  
  Throughout the leasing process, we monitor activity and feedback and adjust strategy as needed, keeping you informed along the way.

• How do you determine the rental price for my property?

  We conduct a detailed market analysis using Bright MLS data, comparing similar properties based on size, location, condition, and features.
  
  We also evaluate days on market, price adjustments, inventory levels, and seasonality to determine a competitive pricing strategy.

• Can I choose the rental price myself?

  We provide clear pricing recommendations and may present multiple strategy options. However, we will not list a property at a price that is not supported by the market, as overpricing leads to extended vacancy and reduced results.

• What happens if my property doesn’t rent quickly?

  You’ll receive weekly updates with showing activity, application status, and market feedback.
  
  If needed, we’ll recommend adjustments—such as pricing or presentation changes—to improve leasing activity and reduce time on market.

• Will you recommend updates or improvements before listing?

  Yes. During the site visit, we provide recommendations to help position your property competitively and improve overall presentation.

• How long does it typically take to lease a property?

  In a typical market, our goal is to secure a tenant within approximately 21 days, assuming the property is priced appropriately and shows well.

• When is the best time to list my property for rent?

  We recommend listing your property 45–60 days before your desired lease start date. We’ll provide guidance during the initial site visit to align timing, preparation, and market conditions.

• What happens between tenants (turnover process)?

  The process begins with a third-party move-out inspection to document condition. We then outline recommended work, obtain estimates, and coordinate repairs with your approval. Once ready, we schedule new photos and relist the property. In some cases, we can begin marketing while the property is still occupied, depending on condition and timing.

• Can you help coordinate make-ready work before listing?

  Yes. We manage all pre-listing and turnover work, including vendor coordination and project oversight. A 10% project management fee applies.

Tenant Screening & Lease Execution

• How do you screen tenants?

  We use a third-party tenant screening solution to support a structured and consistent application review process designed to reduce risk and support long-term tenancy success. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis using consistent screening criteria. Our process evaluates credit, income, rental history, and identity verification in accordance with Fair Housing laws and Virginia requirements, ensuring decisions are objective, compliant, and defensible.

• Can I be involved in the selection of a tenant?

  No. To ensure compliance with Fair Housing laws and consistent application of screening criteria, owners are not involved in individual applicant selection decisions. Our team uses established, objective screening standards to evaluate applicants, protecting both you and Allegiance Property Management while maximizing the likelihood of placing a qualified, long-term resident.

• Do I need to sign the lease for a new tenant?

  No. Allegiance Property Management executes lease agreements on your behalf under the authority granted in the Property Management Agreement, allowing for a consistent and compliant leasing process.

Pets & Risk Management

• How do you screen pets?

  We use PetScreening.com to evaluate pets and manage assistance animal verification in compliance with Fair Housing laws.

• What protections are in place for pet-related damage?

  We require a refundable pet deposit and conduct move-in, periodic, and move-out inspections. Any damage beyond normal wear and tear is addressed through the tenant’s security deposit.

• Am I required to accept pets?

  No. Accepting pets is based on owner preference, property guidelines, and any applicable HOA or community rules. That said, we strongly encourage owners to consider allowing pets, as pet-friendly properties typically lease more quickly and experience reduced vacancy. Assistance animals are handled in accordance with applicable fair housing laws and are not considered pets.

Rent Collection, Payments & Financials

• How is rent collected?

  Most residents pay rent online through our secure Resident Portal. Payments are processed electronically to improve consistency and reduce delays. Owner funds are distributed by ACH no later than the 10th of each month, assuming rent has been received and cleared.

• What happens if my tenant doesn’t pay rent?

  Rent is due on the 1st and considered late after the 5th. If rent is not paid, we initiate our structured collection process, including communication, late fees, and required legal notices in accordance with Virginia law. If needed, we escalate the matter and guide you through next steps. Our focus is resolution first, but we act decisively to protect your income.

• When and how do owner disbursements work?

  Owner funds are distributed via ACH no later than the 10th of each month, net of management fees and approved expenses. Monthly statements are posted to the Owner Portal by the 15th for transparency and recordkeeping.

• Will I have access to financial reports?

  Yes. Monthly statements and year-end tax documents are available in your Owner Portal 24/7. You’ll also have access to leases, inspection reports, and other key documents in one centralized location.

• When are year-end tax documents provided?

  Year-end tax documents, including Form 1099, are issued annually and typically available by the end of January. You’ll be notified once they are ready.

Maintenance, Repairs & Property Oversight

• How is maintenance handled?

  Maintenance is coordinated through Property Meld, providing full visibility and streamlined communication between residents, vendors, and our team. Residents submit requests online, and urgent issues are handled through a 24/7 emergency hotline.

• Do I have to approve every maintenance item?

  No. We operate with a $500 approval threshold. Repairs exceeding that amount are submitted for approval unless they are emergencies requiring immediate action.

• Can I use my own vendors?

  While vacant, owners may complete work or use their own vendors. During tenancy, all work must be coordinated through Allegiance using licensed and insured vendors to protect the property and resident.

• What happens in an emergency?

  Tenants have access to a 24/7 emergency repair hotline. Emergencies are triaged immediately, and vendors are dispatched as needed to mitigate damage. Owners are notified appropriately.

• Do you conduct property inspections?

  Yes. We use a third-party vendor to perform periodic property surveys, including annual smoke alarm certification. A $150 annual fee applies.

• How are large repairs or projects handled?

  We coordinate vendors, obtain estimates, and oversee larger repairs or turnover projects. Project management is billed at 10% of the total project cost, with all fees approved in advance.

Fees, Policies & Risk Management

• Do I have to pay a management fee if my property is vacant?

  Yes. Property management services continue during vacancy, including marketing, showings, pricing strategy, maintenance coordination, vendor access, utilities oversight, and ongoing communication. Our goal is always to minimize vacancy and position the property for a strong lease. While the property is vacant, a minimum monthly management fee of $175 applies.

• What is your cancellation policy?

  We believe in mutual, working relationships. Owners may cancel services with 30 days’ written notice. We do not require long-term commitments and will assist with a smooth transition if needed.

• What insurance is required?

  Owners must carry a landlord insurance policy with appropriate dwelling and liability coverage and list Allegiance Property Management as an additional insured.

• Are residents required to carry renter’s insurance?

  Residents are required to carry renter’s insurance, which is often satisfied through the Resident Benefits Program.

• Are there risks in renting out my property?

  Yes. Renting a property involves legal, financial, and compliance risks, including landlord-tenant laws, fair housing requirements, and habitability standards. Our role is to help mitigate these risks through consistent processes, compliant leasing practices, and proactive management.

• Do you handle evictions?

  We provide eviction oversight, including coordination of required notices, attorneys, court timelines, and communication throughout the process. Legal fees and court costs are the owner’s responsibility. Eviction is always a last resort, but professional oversight helps ensure the process is handled correctly and efficiently.

• Who holds the security deposit?

  Security deposits are held by Allegiance Property Management in an escrow account in accordance with Virginia law. After move-out, any remaining balance is returned to the resident within 45 days, as required.

Owner Experience & Communication

• Will I have a main point of contact?

  Yes. You will have a dedicated Client Success Manager as your primary point of contact, supported by a full team across leasing, maintenance, accounting, and operations to ensure timely communication and continuity.

• How will I communicate with your team?

  We use a combination of email, phone, and structured communication channels to ensure nothing gets missed. For efficiency and faster response times, we operate through department-based inboxes (such as maintenance and leasing), allowing your request to be handled by the right team member quickly while your Client Success Manager remains your main point of contact.

• How often will I receive updates about my property?

  Communication depends on what’s happening with your property. During leasing, you’ll receive regular updates on showing activity, applications, and market feedback. Once a tenant is in place, communication becomes more event-driven—focused on maintenance, lease renewals, and any important updates. At all times, you’ll have access to real-time information through your Owner Portal.

• What can I access in the Owner Portal?

  Your Owner Portal provides 24/7 access to monthly financial statements, lease agreements and renewals, condition reports and photos, maintenance activity and invoices, and year-end tax documents. This gives you full visibility into your property without needing to request updates.

• How involved do I need to be as an owner?

  That’s entirely up to you. Our goal is to handle the day-to-day operations so you don’t have to. Most owners prefer a hands-off experience, relying on us to manage leasing, maintenance, and communication. That said, you remain in control of major decisions, and we will always seek approval where required.

Resident Experience

• What is the Resident Benefits Program (RBP)?

  The Resident Benefits Program is a required program designed to improve the resident experience while supporting property care and risk management. It includes services such as renter’s insurance, credit reporting, and maintenance-related benefits.

• Is the Resident Benefits Program required?

  Yes. The program is required for all properties to ensure consistency, reduce risk, and streamline management. The cost is paid by the resident.