Frequently Asked Questions

You can apply online at any time by visiting our Apply Now page. Browse available units, review the requirements, and submit your application through our online portal. We process all applications within 1–2 business days. If you have questions before applying, reach out to us — we're happy to walk you through the process.

All applicants must be 18 years or older and provide a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of income (pay stubs, bank statements, or employer letter), rental history or references, and consent to a background and credit check. Each adult who will reside in the unit must submit a separate application.

We require that applicants demonstrate a combined gross monthly income of at least 2.5 times the monthly rent. For example, if the rent is $1,000/month, you would need to show a minimum gross income of $2,500/month. If you have questions about qualifying income, please contact us — we're happy to discuss your situation.

A minimum credit score of 600 is required to qualify. Your score does not need to be perfect — however, meeting or exceeding this threshold is an important part of our screening process. Applicants who do not meet this threshold may be considered if income substantially exceeds the 2.5x requirement and rental history is strong. All applicants are evaluated using the same written criteria.

Yes — having no credit history is different from having bad credit, and it does not automatically disqualify you. We look at the full picture: income, employment stability, and rental history all factor into our decision. There are also steps you can take to strengthen a thin-file application, such as offering a larger deposit or providing a co-signer. Read our full guide: Can You Rent with No Credit History in Texas?

Yes. A background and credit check are both required as part of our standard application process. We evaluate credit history as one factor among several — including rental history and income — and do not require a perfect score. Extenuating circumstances may be considered on a case-by-case basis. A screening fee is required and handled directly through TenantCloud when you apply — you'll be prompted to pay after submitting your application. Our written screening criteria are applied consistently to all applicants.

Not automatically. We review every application individually — an eviction on your record is a factor we consider, not an automatic disqualifier. What matters most to us is the full picture: how long ago the eviction occurred, what caused it, whether any outstanding balance with the former landlord has been resolved, and what your current income and rental history look like. If you have an eviction on your record and you're unsure whether to apply, reach out before you submit — we're happy to have a direct conversation. Read our full guide: How an Eviction Affects Your Rental Future

Housing voucher eligibility varies by property. Select EWG Properties units participate in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, and we welcome inquiries from voucher holders. To find out whether a specific property accepts housing vouchers, please contact us directly with the unit you're interested in and we'll be happy to confirm eligibility and walk you through the next steps.

Our standard lease term is 12 months. In some cases, shorter-term arrangements may be available at a premium. We encourage prospective tenants to discuss their needs with us — we're flexible when circumstances allow and we prefer to find a solution that works for everyone.

The security deposit is typically equal to one month's rent, though the exact amount may vary by unit and will be confirmed at approval. It's due at lease signing along with your first month's rent and is fully refundable at move-out — provided the unit is returned in good condition, normal wear and tear excepted. We document the unit's condition at move-in so everything is clear from day one.

Move-in costs typically consist of your first month's rent plus a security deposit. If you move in mid-month, your first month's rent will be prorated based on your move-in date — so you only pay for the days you're actually there. The exact amounts are confirmed at approval and communicated at lease time.

Pet policies vary by property and are considered on a case-by-case basis. Some of our units are pet-friendly for well-behaved dogs and cats. If you have a pet, please let us know the type, breed, and weight of your animal when you inquire so we can confirm availability and any applicable pet fees or deposits for the specific unit you're interested in. Tenants must show and file the pet's most recent shot records.

We're pet-friendly with a few conditions to keep all residents comfortable:

• Maximum 2 pets per unit — all pets must be disclosed on your application.
• Dogs must be 35 lbs or under — breed restrictions may apply, contact us to confirm.
• Cats and caged birds are welcome — no size restrictions for cats.
• One-time pet fee: $100 per pet — paid at move-in, non-refundable.
• Monthly pet rent: $35 per pet — added to your monthly rent.

All pets must have current shot records on file. Contact us before applying if you have questions about your specific pet.

No. Assistance animals — including service animals and emotional support animals needed by persons with disabilities — are not subject to our pet policy. No pet deposits, pet fees, or monthly pet rent apply, and breed and weight restrictions do not apply to assistance animals. To request a reasonable accommodation for an assistance animal, contact us directly before applying.

Utilities are the tenant's responsibility. This typically includes electricity, water, gas (where applicable), and internet service. Each property may differ slightly — we'll provide a full breakdown of what is and isn't included for any unit you're considering, so there are no surprises.

Yes. Effective January 2024, EWG Properties requires all tenants to maintain an active renters insurance policy for the duration of their lease. This policy protects your personal belongings in the event of theft, fire, water damage, or other unforeseen incidents — coverage that is not provided by your landlord's property insurance. Tenants have the flexibility to secure coverage through a provider of their choice or to obtain a policy at the time of lease signing. Proof of coverage must be submitted prior to move-in and kept current throughout your tenancy.

Rent is paid online through the Tenant Portal, our secure property management platform. We accept ACH bank transfers as well as major debit and credit cards. Rent is due on the 1st of each month. Once your lease is signed, you will receive login credentials and full access to your resident account through TenantCloud.

Yes. EWG Properties uses TenantCloud as our property management platform, giving residents secure, 24/7 access to everything related to their tenancy. Through the Tenant Portal — available both online and as a free mobile app for iOS and Android — you can view and sign lease documents, make rent payments, submit and track maintenance requests, upload required documents such as renters insurance, and review your account history, all in one place. The app puts full control of your lease right in your pocket. You will receive portal access and login credentials once your lease is signed.

Maintenance requests are typically handled through our Tenant Portal, but you may also submit a request by calling or texting us at (210) 698-6900, emailing info@eastwestgroup.io, or reaching out directly through our Contact page. We aim to acknowledge all requests within 24 hours and resolve non-emergency issues as quickly as possible. For emergencies (no heat, water leak, or safety concerns), please call us immediately.