Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Q: What does Sanctum Realty Services Asset Management do?
A: We provide full-service property and asset management for residential and mixed-use properties. Our goal is to protect your investment, maintain strong tenant relations, and optimize long-term property value.
Q: What areas do you serve?
A: We manage properties across Northern California, including the Bay Area, San Jose, Oakland, San Francisco, and the Sacramento region.
Q: Who do you work with?
A: We partner with property owners, landlords, and investors seeking professional management, as well as qualified tenants looking for quality rental homes.
Owner & Landlord Questions
Q: What services are included in your management plans?
A: Our core services include tenant placement, rent collection, maintenance coordination, inspections, financial reporting, and compliance oversight. Additional services such as insurance verification, renovation management, and strategic advisory are also available.
Q: How much do you charge for management?
A: Fees vary depending on the property type, location, and level of service. Each property receives a tailored proposal designed to fit the owner’s goals and portfolio needs.
Q: How and when are owner disbursements made?
A: Owner disbursements are typically processed once rent is collected and expenses are reconciled. Statements and transaction records are accessible through the Owner Portal.
Q: Do owners hold the security deposit?
A: Yes. In compliance with California law, security deposits can be held directly by the property owner and documented for transparency through the Owner Portal.
Q: How do you handle maintenance and repairs?
A: We coordinate maintenance with licensed and insured vendors. Owners are notified for approval before major repairs, and detailed receipts are provided for every completed job.
Q: Can I use my own vendor or contractor?
A: Yes, as long as the vendor meets state licensing and insurance requirements and is registered in our system.
Q: How do you ensure my property is well maintained?
A: We perform regular inspections—move-in, periodic, and move-out—and address preventive maintenance to preserve the property’s condition and value.
Tenant & Leasing Questions
Q: How do tenants apply for a rental?
A: Applicants can apply securely online after viewing a property. All applications undergo screening, including credit, background, and income verification.
Q: How long does screening take?
A: The process typically takes one to three business days, depending on the responsiveness of references and employers.
Q: What is required to move in?
A: A signed lease, security deposit, first month’s rent, and proof of renter’s insurance with a minimum of $100,000 in liability coverage are required prior to move-in.
Q: How do tenants pay rent?
A: Rent is due on the first of each month and considered late after the fifth. Payments can be made securely online through the Tenant Portal.
Q: Are utilities included in rent?
A: This depends on the property. Some units include water and trash, while tenants are generally responsible for electricity, gas, and internet.
Q: How do tenants request maintenance or repairs?
A: Maintenance requests can be submitted anytime through the Tenant Portal. Emergency issues receive immediate attention.
Q: What happens if rent is late?
A: A late fee may apply. Repeated non-payment could lead to a Notice to Pay or Quit, following California’s landlord-tenant regulations.
Financial & Reporting Questions
Q: How do I access monthly financial statements?
A: All income, expenses, and disbursement reports are available through the Owner Portal, including downloadable year-end summaries for tax purposes.
Q: Do you handle 1099s and vendor W-9s?
A: Yes. We issue annual 1099 statements to owners and collect W-9 forms from all active vendors to maintain IRS compliance.
Q: Can you help with budgeting or renovation tracking?
A: Yes. Our asset management platform supports project tracking, cost reporting, and ROI analysis for capital improvements and renovations.
Legal & Compliance Questions
Q: Are you familiar with local rent control and tenant laws?
A: Yes. We stay up to date with California and local ordinances regarding rent control, just-cause eviction, and tenant rights.
Q: How do you handle evictions or lease violations?
A: We follow all California legal procedures, issue notices as required, and coordinate with experienced legal partners when needed.
Q: Is renter’s insurance required?
A: Yes. All tenants must provide proof of renter’s insurance with a minimum of $100,000 in liability coverage before moving in.
Strategic & Advisory Questions
Q: What is the difference between property management and asset management?
A: Property management focuses on daily operations such as rent collection and maintenance. Asset management emphasizes long-term strategy, market positioning, and equity growth.
Q: Do you provide investment consulting?
A: Yes. We assist owners with pricing strategy, renovation ROI analysis, and market performance evaluation to support their financial goals.
Q: Can you help with acquisitions or property sales?
A: Yes. Through our extended real estate network, we provide guidance on buy-to-rent and sell-to-exit strategies.
Technology & Portal Questions
Q: What online tools do you offer?
A: Both owners and tenants have access to secure online portals for payments, maintenance tracking, document uploads, and financial reporting.
Q: How secure is my information?
A: Our systems use bank-level encryption and comply with modern data protection standards to ensure all personal and financial information remains private.
Contact & Support
Q: How can I get started with Sanctum Realty Services?
A: Schedule a consultation through our website or contact our office directly. We’ll assess your property and provide a tailored management plan.
Q: How can I reach support?
A: For maintenance or tenant matters, submit a request through the Tenant Portal. For ownership or financial questions, contact our management office by phone or email during business hours.
