Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

Download the online application and return the completed application, along with your application fee to the Property Management office. Applications can be dropped off or mailed to:

 

Property Manager
Highacres Commons
22 Faith Drive, Box 3997
Hazleton, PA 18202

 

No applications are processed until receipt of payment. Payment can be in the form of credit card, money order or check DO NOT SEND CASH. Once payment funds have been received, applications are processed on a first come basis so we suggest that applications be returned as quickly as possible.j

 

How long will it take to process my application?
Typically the approval process takes 5 - 7 business days.

 

What background information is verified thru the application process?
We will perform a credit and appropriate background checks on the applicant. Also, a credit check will be performed on the guarantor. (*Please note: you will be required to provide your guarantor's SSN for the application.)

 

How are the units rented?
Each resident will have their own lease per assigned bed.

 

Do I need to have roommates picked in advance to apply?
No. Residents may submit roommate requests however all spaces are assigned by management on a first come first serve basis.

 

How many people are permitted to live in one bedroom?
Bedrooms typically house either one or two students.

 

Are the apartments co-ed?
No. While Highacres Commons has both male and female tenants, individual apartments are not coed.

 

May I have a guest stay in my unit?
Yes. You are permitted to have guests stay overnight. See your lease and house rules for the guest policies. Overnight guests will be required to register at the leasing office.

 

What is the utility allowance?
We allocate per unit an average utility consumption cost. Should your average utility consumption cost exceed our baseline average we reserve the right to charge the apartment residents the cost of the additional utility consumption.

 

What does my rent include?
Our pricing includes a fully furnished apartment, basic TV service, Internet service, and utility allowance. Additionally, your rent includes use of the student lounge and/or common amenities, permitted parking and public transportation to and from campus.

 

What type of furniture is included?
While some units vary, typically the living room includes a sofa, lounge chair, end table, and a four person dinette. Bedrooms include regular twin size beds with built in drawer storage, desk and chair, and wardrobe closet with additional storage.

 

Is a washer/dryer included?
Common area, coin operated washer and dryer facilities are available.

 

Are there Resident Advisors?
Yes. Highacres commons has community assistants that live on the premises during the normal academic year.

 

Will I have a private bathroom?
Your choice of semiprivate versus private will determine whether you have a private bathroom. If you choose the semiprivate option you will share the bedroom and bathroom with other apartment residents. If you choose the private option you will have your own bedroom and bathroom.

 

What kitchen appliances are included?
Each kitchen has a (17) cubic foot refrigerator with top freezer, 30 electric range with oven, microwave and dishwasher. You will need to supply your own small appliances such as toaster, coffee maker, and dishware.

 

Is there a fee for parking?
Resident vehicles must be registered with HAC. Surface parking is available for a nominal annual fee. Please contact the leasing office to receive your parking permit.

 

Is alcohol permitted in my unit?
Assuming you are of the legal age, you may consume alcohol in your apartment. No alcohol is permitted in any of the common areas and outdoor areas and we ask you to respect these community guidelines.

 

When do I move in?
You will be assigned a move in date. Typically dates vary from August 1st to August 15th.

 

Do I have to leave my unit during any school recesses?
No. Units are open for your use during your entire lease period. Residents staying during academic recesses will be required to inform management in writing.

 

Are multi--year lease options available?
Yes, you may execute a 24 month lease and it will have a reduced escalation price. In most cases this will save you money and is a good idea because these units are in high demand. It will also assure you a space for the following year.

 

May I paint the living room/ kitchen area/bedroom area?
No. The apartment is already painted. Make sure if you are decorating your apartment you do it in moderation. At the end of the lease, residents, are responsible for any holes or marks on the wall.

 

Do I need to bring my own bedding?
Yes, we provide a bed and mattress. You will need to bring a mattress pad, sheets, blankets, comforters, pillows and bedspread. Windows are equipped with mini blinds which may not be removed.

 

May I sublet my bedroom?
No, you are not permitted to sublet your bedroom. Should you have an extenuating circumstance you may stop by our leasing office and discuss the situation with the property manager.

 

Am I required to carry renter's insurance?
It is not required but highly recommended. Should your personal belongings be damaged in an event such as water/fire damage, you will not be reimbursed for any losses incurred.

 

Is Highacres Commons affiliated with Penn State University?
No, the property is privately owned and managed and is not affiliated with the University.

 

Can grants, scholarships, student loans, or financial aid be used towards rent?
Yes. You may use financial aid proceeds to pay for off campus housing or any other third party payments. Typically financial aid proceeds are dispersed directly to the student who in turn can then use those proceeds to pay for housing.

 

 

 

Bring List - What to bring/don't bring to Highacres Commons