Late fee forgiveness
Request one eligible late fee waiver during a rolling 12-month period.
A NEW PLACE. A FRESH START.
Welcome to your new home.
We’re happy you’re here. Let’s get you from
“where do I start?” to keys in hand.
Step 1 of 5
Let’s start with the essentials
01
BEFORE MOVE-IN
Let’s turn the lights on.
Put all tenant-responsible utilities in your name before your move-in date. Start by finding the providers for your new address.
- Set up the utilities required by your lease, such as electricity, gas, water, trash, and sewer.
- Enter your account numbers or confirmation IDs in the setup service once you’re done. If you set up directly, send confirmation to our office.
Utilities paid by the owner or HOA are excluded unless your lease says otherwise. You may contact providers directly.
About this referral link
Using this setup service is optional. If you purchase internet through it, 1st Rate Rentals may receive a referral fee or commission. This does not affect your rent, fees, internet cost, or rights under the lease. You may choose any provider.
02
PROOF REQUIRED BEFORE MOVE-IN
A little peace of mind.
Get renters insurance or provide proof of your existing policy. Keep your coverage active throughout your tenancy.
Every adult must be covered
List every adult occupant on the same policy, or provide a separate policy for each adult.
Your coverage must include personal property and at least $100,000 in personal liability. Ask your insurer to confirm that the policy meets your signed lease requirements.
OUR INSURANCE PARTNER
Get my Sure quote
Get a quote with Sure
Start from your phone and take one more thing off your move-in list.
You may use any insurance provider. We may receive compensation when you purchase through our Sure link. Coverage and availability depend on the policy.
Already insured? Send us your policy.
Upload a copy of every policy to your tenant portal, email the policies to our office, or bring copies with you before move-in.
Upload in my tenant portal Email my policy
03
PLAN AHEAD · OPTIONAL SERVICES
Next up: the big move.
Gather your supplies and reserve the help you need. You’re welcome to use any store, truck rental company, or mover.
A
Stock up on supplies
Boxes, packing tape, labels, and protective wrap.
Shop moving-day essentials on Amazon.
Shop moving supplies
B
Reserve a truck
Choose a truck size and pickup time that fit your move.
Save up to 20% on your truck reservation.
Reserve a truck
C
Book a mover
Arrange packing, loading, or help with the whole move.
Compare rates from up to 5 movers and book moving help through Experts in Moving.
Book a moverPlan truck parking and check any property or HOA moving rules before booking.
About these affiliate links
The moving-supplies, truck-reservation, and mover-booking buttons are affiliate links. 1st Rate Rentals may receive compensation if you shop, reserve, or book through them. Pricing, savings, and availability are subject to the providers’ current terms.
04
YOUR RESIDENT SERVICES
Helpful extras for life at home.
Your Resident Services package gives you practical help for the moments that catch you off guard.
Accidental damage help
Receive up to $1,000 in eligible accidental damage reimbursements.
Positive Rent Reporting
Build your credit history by having eligible on-time rent payments reported.
Fee-free eCheck payments
Pay online by eCheck without a processing fee, making rent payments even easier.
READY WHEN YOU NEED THEM
Open resident services
Review and access your services
These are four highlights. More services, reimbursements, discounts, and resources are available in your Resident Services portal.
Eligibility, reimbursement limits, exclusions, and request procedures apply. Review the current terms before using a service.
eCheck availability: We reserve the right to restrict eCheck payments in cases of NSF payments.
05
ON YOUR MOVE-IN DATE
Time to get your keys!
Collect your keys at our Riverside office on your move-in date during office hours.
Cashier’s check or postal money order only
Move-in funds must be in one of these forms. Personal checks and cash are not accepted. Confirm your exact balance and who to make the payment payable to with our office before purchasing it.
Come see us in Riverside
5842 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92506
Monday–Friday · 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Weekend or holiday move? Call ahead to arrange your key pickup.
- Have your required utilities established in your name.
- Provide your renters insurance proof before move-in.
- Bring the full move-in amount in the required payment form.
KEYS IN HAND
You’re home. Make it yours.
We hope you love your new place. Your property condition report will be in your resident portal. Walk through your home and email photos and notes about any discrepancies to homes@firstraterentals.net. Send your notes promptly after reviewing the report.
Open my tenant portal ↗These checkmarks are just for your own planning. They don’t submit documents or confirm office approval. Your progress is saved in this browser so you can come back later.
You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
We’re a call or an email away.
(951) 328-9090 · homes@firstraterentals.netA FEW THINGS TO KNOW
Before you settle in.
A few helpful answers before you settle in.
Can I use my own insurance company?
Yes. Choose any insurance provider you like. Keep an active policy with at least $100,000 in personal liability coverage and personal property coverage. ALL adult occupants must be listed on the policy or have their own renters insurance policy. If adults have separate policies, provide proof for each policy. Ask your insurer to confirm that your policy meets all coverage requirements in your lease. Upload your policy to your resident portal or email a copy to our office before move-in, and maintain coverage throughout your tenancy.
Does Resident Services replace insurance?
No. Accidental damage reimbursement is not a substitute for renters insurance. Resident Services is required and costs $25 per month. There is no opt-out option. A landlord-only liability policy does not cover your belongings or provide personal renters insurance protection.
How do I pay my move-in balance?
Bring a cashier’s check or postal money order for the move-in funds listed in your lease. Personal checks and cash are not accepted for move-in funds. Confirm your balance and the payment payee with our office before purchasing your check or money order. After move-in, you can make ongoing rent payments online through your resident portal.
How do I review my move-in inspection?
We’ll inspect your home before move-in and share a detailed property condition report through your resident portal. Walk through the property, review the report, and email photos and written notes about any differences to homes@firstraterentals.net. Send your notes promptly after reviewing the report.
How do I request maintenance or report an emergency?
For non-emergency maintenance, submit a work order through your resident portal. During regular business hours, call our office at (951) 328-9090. For after-hours emergencies that pose an immediate risk to people or property, call (951) 336-1979. Please reserve this line for after-hours emergencies only.
Can I bring a pet or add another occupant?
Only approved pets and occupants listed in your lease may reside at the property. Contact our office before bringing a pet or adding someone to the household. Keep a current profile for approved pets at PetScreening. If you have a dog, maintain pet liability coverage. Contact us about assistance-animal accommodations.
Do I need to bring my own refrigerator?
A refrigerator and stove are provided, unless you elected to supply and maintain your own refrigerator. Confirm what is included at your home and check your signed appliance election before arranging delivery.
Are there rules for parking or moving trucks?
Check your HOA or community rules before booking your move. Keep vehicles within driveway and garage capacity, and do not park on lawns. Contact our office to confirm loading arrangements and any restrictions specific to your property.