Pre-Leasing Frequently Asked Questions

Home being renovated.

What is Pre-Leasing at Sylvan Homes?

Pre-leasing allows you to secure a home before it becomes available. It’s ideal if you want to lock in your preferred home early—but it does require a firm commitment and comes with unique policies.

Is the lease legally binding even if I haven’t seen the home?

Yes. When you sign a lease agreement with Sylvan Homes, it becomes a legally binding contract. By signing, you agree to rent the home in “as-is” condition, based on photos and online descriptions. No in-person tours are offered for pre-leased homes.

How do I secure a pre-leased home?

To take a pre-leased home off the market, all of the following must be completed within 24 hours of receipt:

  • Sign the Pre-Leasing Holding Fee Agreement
  • Pay the non-refundable Holding Fee
  • Sign the Lease Agreement (all parties)

The home remains available until all three steps are completed.

Can I tour or visit a pre-leased home before moving in?

No. Pre-leased homes are not available for tours—this includes visits to measure rooms or view the interior. Attempting to access the home through vendors or any unauthorized means may result in the termination of your lease without refund of any paid fees.

What is the condition of the home at move-in?

Sylvan Homes are pre-owned and may show signs of normal wear and tear from previous residents. While homes are not delivered in “like-new” condition, you can expect the following at move-in:

  • Professionally cleaned
  • Free of health or safety hazards
  • Fully functional and move-in ready

We focus on delivering a safe, clean, and operational home that meets all habitability standards, so you can move in with confidence. If any issues arise, our team is here to help resolve them quickly.

What happens if the home isn’t ready by my lease start date?

While we aim to deliver homes on time, delays can occur due to weather, supply issues, or vendor availability. Here’s what to expect:

  • Sylvan has up to 10 business days from your lease start date to deliver the home.
  • If we can’t deliver within 10 business days, your lease will be canceled and all payments refunded.
  • If the home is delivered within the 10-day window, your lease stays in effect and payments are non-refundable.
  • Rent will be prorated for days the home is unavailable within that window.
  • If a delay exceeds the 10-day window, you may transfer your lease and funds to another available Sylvan property within 3 calendar days.

What if someone in my household has pet allergies?

Many Sylvan homes have previously allowed pets. While they are professionally cleaned, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. Please consider this if you or anyone in your household has pet allergies.

Is pre-leasing the only option available?

No. Pre-leasing is completely optional. If you prefer, ask about homes available now for in-person tours and immediate leasing. You might find a move-in ready option that better suits your needs.

What should I keep in mind before pre-leasing?

Pre-leasing is a great way to secure your desired home early in a competitive market—but it comes with:

  • A site-unseen lease commitment
  • Non-refundable fees
  • Possible delivery delays

We encourage you to ask any questions before proceeding to ensure this option is right for you.