First Realty does not provide after-hours lock-out service. If you have misplaced your keys, you will need to contact a locksmith to gain entry before the next business day. If your key is broken in the lock, or will not turn the lock please call our after-hours number at (334) 887-3425 to report the issue and a technician will reach out to you.

If the power to your entire residence is out it is most likely a local interruption of service. Check to see if your neighbors have power first then call Alabama Power to report the problem, 1-800-245-2244. If only a portion of your residence is without power then check all of your breakers. Turn all the breakers off and then back on to restore service. If that doesn’t correct the problem call First Realty for maintenance service.

FAQs Archive - First Realty

Q: What is the Security Deposit Amount?

The security deposit is equal to half a month's rent and is potentially fully refundable. Additionally, there is a non-refundable leasing fee , also equal to half a month's rent , which covers cleaning and move-out expenses.

Q: Do We Charge Application Fees on Tenants and Guarantors? Why?

A non-refundable $155.00 application fee is required for both the tenant and guarantor. This fee covers a credit check for the guarantor and a background check for both parties. At First Realty, our priority is to thoroughly screen all tenants to ensure we provide the highest level of service possible.

Q: What are the Approval Requirements and Credit Guidelines?

Our approval criteria require that you earn at least three times the monthly rent and have established credit in your name. While we do not require a specific credit score, we review your credit history to ensure payments are made on time, there are no accounts in collections, and no outstanding balances owed to another realty company. We also conduct checks on credit, background, and rental history.

Q: Lightbulb/Air filter/Battery Replacements

The tenant is responsible for the replacement of all lightbulbs*, air filters, and battery replacements. If the tenant chooses to contact maintenance for replacement of lightbulbs, air filters, and battery replacements the tenant will be responsible for the charge of the maintenance call in addition to the lightbulb, air filter, and/or battery replacement. *with exceptions to exterior floodlights, specific stairwell lights, & certain LED lights

Q: What maintenance issues am I responsible for during my occupancy?

Tenants are responsible for clearing drains (excluding issues caused by tree roots or busted pipes) and resetting disposals. Additionally, tenants are liable for repairs to broken or damaged toilet seats, disposals, doors, and windows during occupancy, with costs charged to the tenant. *Found in section 8A & 8B of lease

Q: Installation of Fixtures

Tenants may not install bidets themselves. Installation must be completed by our maintenance team at the tenant's expense. Any damages caused by improperly installed bidets will be the tenant's responsibility. If tenant decides to install a fixture not provided by the owner, they are doing so at their own risk and will be liable for any damages or repairs due to improperly installed fixtures.

Q: AC (Air Conditioner) Policy

Tenants must run the AC in their unit during warm months, maintaining a maximum temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent mildew. This requirement also applies when the unit is unoccupied or during the tenant's move-out at the end of the lease. Failure to comply will result in a fine and the tenant being responsible for the cost of any mildew cleanup. *Found in section 8D of Lease and Mold & Moisture Addendum

Q: Garbage Disposal Not Working

If your disposal does not work at all then turn the switch off and push the reset button which is located directly on the bottom of the disposal. If that doesn’t solve the problem or your disposal hums when turned on, then call First Realty for maintenance service. If the disposal is jammed by a utensil, coin, bottle top, or is packed with food you will be charged for the service call