Frequently Asked Questions
What condition will my apartment be in at move-in?
Every home is professionally cleaned and inspected before move-in. Please complete your move-in inspection within 72 hours.
Do you offer short-term leases?
Yes. Short-term leases of 7-11 months are available at a premium monthly rate. Lease term availability is limited. Contact our leasing office for current availability and pricing.
What does the application and leasing process look like?
Applying at Lakewood Villas is simple! Browse our available floorplans, select your preferred home, and click Apply Now to begin your online application. Once submitted, our leasing team will review your application and follow up within 48 hours. Upon approval, you will sign your lease electronically and pay your move-in costs to secure your home.
How long does it take for an application to get approved?
Most applications are reviewed within 48 hour of submission. Our leasing team will contact you with a decision and any next steps.
What all do I need to apply?
To complete your application you will need:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Proof of income (see acceptable income sources below)
- Application fee per person
- Administration fee per household
What income is required to qualify?
Applicants must have a combined household income of at least 2.5 times the monthly rent. For example, for a $1,500 apartment, a minimum income of $3,750 per month is required.
What is acceptable proof of income?
We accept:
- 60 days of most recent pay stubs in PDF format
- Official offer letter on employer letterhead in PDF format
- Bank statements from the last 60 days in PDF format
Please contact our leasing office if you have questions about income documentation requirements.
What happens if I'm approved for an apartment but my roommate is not?
Please contact our leasing office to discuss your options.
What is the typical ceiling height of your apartments?
Please contact our leasing team with floor plan-specific questions.
What lease terms are available?
We offer flexible lease terms ranging from 7 months to 15 months. Lease terms are first-come, first-served and subject to availability. Contact our leasing office for pricing by term length, and lease term availability.
Is there a preferred employer program? If so, who are the preferred employers?
Yes! Contact our leasing team to learn more about our preferred employer program.
What is the notice requirement to terminate my lease?
A written notice of at least 60 days is required prior to your move-out date. Please refer to your lease agreement for full details.
What is your move-in process?
On move-in day, you will meet our team in the office to pick up your keys, complete a move-in inspection checklist, and review community guidelines. All move-in costs must be paid in full before keys are released. Return your inspection form within 72 hours.
What is your move-out process?
Before moving out, please return all keys to our office and ensure the home and yard are in original condition. Move out statements are processed within 30 days per state law.
Do you require a security deposit? How is it determined?
Yes, a security deposit is required at Lakewood Villas. Please contact the leasing office for more information on the deposit.
Is my security deposit fully refundable?
Your deposit is refundable, minus any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear, outstanding balances, or cleaning fees. Refunds are processed within 30 days of move-out per applicable state law.
Do you require renter's insurance?
Yes. All residents must maintain renter's insurance with a minimum liability coverage of $100,000. Proof of coverage must be provided prior to move in. We also offer coverage through Foxen Insurance. Contact our office with questions about renter's insurance requirements.
What tour options are there?
What times are available for tours?
Tours are available during leasing office hours:
- Monday - Friday: 10:00AM to 5:00PM
- Saturday: 11:00AM to 4:00PM
- Sunday: Closed
Walk-ins welcome; we recommend scheduling in advance or over the phone with our team at 352-371-8009
What size apartments do you offer?
Lakewood Villas offers 1-bed, 2-bed, and 3-bed homes ranging from approximately 704 sq ft to 1,450 sq ft. Visit our floorplans page to explore all layouts.
Will I be able to see the actual apartment that I will be renting?
We offer tours of representative model homes. Your unit will be freshly cleaned and move-in ready by your lease start date.
Which floorplans have the best natural light?
Natural light varies by apartment location. Please contact our leasing team with floor plan-specific questions.
Do any of your floorplans have a den or home office space?
Yes. All of our 2-bedroom homes include a flex space usable as a den, home office, or storage area.
Can I request a specific floor or location?
Absolutely! We will note your preferences -- end unit, downstairs/upstairs entrance,location on property, etc. Our team will do their best to match you.
How long will the apartment I want be available?
Availability changes quickly! We recommend submitting your application for your preferred home or floor plan as soon as possible. Please refer to our website or contact our leasing office for current availability.
What happens if my preferred apartment becomes unavailable?
Our leasing team will present you with comparable alternatives matching your preferences for size, floor, view, or finishes. Please ensure all application/admin fees have been paid, as this is what submits your application to us.
What is the lease renewal process?
We will notify you approximately 90-120 days before your lease expiration with renewal options. To renew, please contact our office to confirm your renewal options (lease term length, etc.), and then sign your renewal agreement online.
How do I pay rent?
Rent can be paid securely through our Resident Portal using a debit card, credit card, or ACH bank transfer.
When is rent considered late?
Rent is due on the 1st of each month. A late fee will be applied if rent is not received by 11:59PM on the 3rd of each month.
What other fees am I responsible for?
In addition to monthly rent, residents are responsible for utilities (billed based on usage), a one-time internet set-up fee (due before move-in), one-time pet fee, if applicable (per pet, due before move in), and monthly pet rent, if applicable (per pet). Our Community Package covers valet trash services, weekly pest control services, amenity fees, and internet services through Cox.
Can I break my lease? If so, what are the stipulations?
Please review your lease or contact our office with questions about lease termination options.
When/How should I set up my utilities?
We recommend setting up utilities at least 1 week before move-in:
- Electricity, Water/Sewer: Gainesville Regional Utilities
Is the community wired for high-speed internet?
Yes. Lakewood Villas is wired for high-speed internet. Internet is included as part of our Community Package.
Who are the internet providers?
Internet service is available through Cox Communications. Cox is our exclusive provider, offering speeds up to 1 Gig. Contact Cox at 844-303-1045.
Is Wi-Fi available in common areas?
Yes. Complimentary Community Wi-Fi is available in the leasing office, fitness center, business center, and pool area.
Who do I set up electricity with?
Electricity is provided by Gainesville Regional Utilities. Contact them at 352-334-3434 or GRU.com. We recommend doing this at least 1 week before your move-in date.
Is maintenance offered?
Yes! Our professional maintenance team is available to assist. Standard maintenance is available Monday-Friday; emergency maintenance is available 24/7.
How do I submit a maintenance or service request?
Submit requests through Resident Portal, or call our leasing office at 352-371-8009. For emergencies, call 352-231-8259 immediately.
How long is the average maintenance request?
Standard requests are typically completed within 1-3 business days. Maintenance requests are completed in the order they are received. Complex repairs may take longer -- we will communicate any delays. Emergencies are prioritized.
Do your apartments have in-home laundry?
Yes. All homes include a full-size washer and dryer.
Do you offer furnished or corporate apartments?
We do not offer furnished or corporate apartments.
What finishes and appliances come standard?
Finishes and appliances can vary by home. Please contact our leasing team with any questions about appliances or finishes.
Do apartments have patios/balconies?
Yes. Our 1B, 2C and 3A homes have a patio/balcony located behind the home, off of the living room. All other floor plans include an outdoor backyard area.
Can I have a grill on my patio/balcony?
Per fire safety regulations, grills of any kind are not permitted on patios or balconies.
Can I sublet my apartment or put it on Airbnb?
No. Subletting and short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO, or similar services are not permitted per your lease agreement.
Can I paint my walls?
Yes, with approval. Any approved painting must be returned to its original condition at move-out, or a repainting fee will apply.
Can I have shelves, curtains, posters, etc.?
Yes! Standard hanging using nails or small anchors is permitted. Excessive damage beyond normal wear and tear may result in deductions from your security deposit.
What smart home features are available?
We do not offer smart home features. Please contact our leasing team with questions about smart devices.
Are there USB outlets and modern electrical setups?
Please contact our leasing team with questions about electrical setups in our homes.
What happens if something breaks in my apartment?
Submit a maintenance request through Resident Portal or call 352-371-8009 as soon as possible. Our team will address it within 1-3 business days. For urgent issues e.g., water leak, HVAC failure, call 352-231-8259 immediately.
What amenities does your community offer?
Lakewood Villas is a neighborhood-style community with amenities including:
- Resort-Style Swimming Pool with Large Sundeck & Cabanas
- Lighted Tennis Courts
- Lighted Basketball Courts
- Observation Deck
- Power Car Wash with Vacuum
- Pet-wash Station
- 24-Hour Fitness Center
- 24-Hour Business Center, and more!
What are the rules for the clubhouse amenities?
Amenity areas are for residents and approved guests only:
- No glass in pool areas
- Guests must be accompanied by a resident
- Clean up after pets in all outdoor areas
Full community standards are in your lease. Please contact our office with questions about our amenities and community guidelines.
What are the clubhouse hours?
Our leasing office is open Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00PM. Fitness center and business center hours: 24/7 with code access.
What are the pool hours?
The pool is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Is the pool open all year?
Yes! The pool is open year-round, weather permitting.
Do you have outdoor spaces or green areas?
Yes! Lakewood Villas features an outdoor boardwalk, gazebo and pond, and green spaces around the community available for all residents.
Do you have elevators?
No. As a community of single-story and two-story townhomes, elevators are not applicable. If you have accessibility needs, please contact our leasing team.
What is the parking like?
Parking is uncovered and first-come first-serve for residents and guests.
Do you offer reserved parking?
Parking is first-come first-serve for residents and guests.
What if I have 2 cars or a car and a motorcycle?
Parking is first-come first-serve for residents and guests.
Does the community offer on-site recycling?
Yes. Recycling is collected curbside Sunday through Thursday through our valet trash services, and via bins every Wednesday towards the front of the community.
Where do I take my trash?
Valet trash is picked up from your front door Sunday through Thursday. Bins should be moved back into your home by 9am the next morning. Please contact our leasing team for more information about
Where do my packages get delivered?
Packages are delivered directly to your front door.
Are there additional storage options?
No, additional on-site storage is not currently offered.
Is there somewhere for me to keep my bicycle secured?
Your gated front patio (offered in certain floor plans) or in your home is the ideal place to store bicycles securely. Community bike racks are located around the community as well.
Are there quiet hours?
Yes. Per the City of Gainesville, quieet hours are 10:00PM to 8:00AM daily.
When will I get access to amenities after move-in?
You will have full access to all amenities beginning on your move-in date.
Are pets allowed?
Yes! We welcome pets at Lakewood Villas. We allow up to 2 pets per home. Breed and weight restrictions may apply -- see our full pet policy.
What is your pet policy?
We welcome cats and dogs:
- Max pets: 2 per home
- One-time pet fee per pet
- Monthly pet rent per pet
- Breed restrictions apply: contact us
- Yard responsibility: Residents must maintain a clean yard, including prompt pet waste removal.
All pets must be registered. Screened through PetScreening.
Can I bring guests to the pool and other amenity areas?
Yes! Residents are responsible for ensuring guests follow all community rules. Guests must be accompanied by a resident at all times.
Is there guest parking?
Yes! All parking is first-come first-serve for residents and guests.
How long can a guest stay with me?
Guests are welcome to stay for up to 14 consecutive days without prior approval. Extended stays require written approval. Long-term guests may need to apply as an additional occupant.
What neighborhood is your community located in?
Lakewood Villas is nestled in the Newberry area in Gainsville, FL, offering the feel of a quiet residential neighborhood with easy access to UF campus, local shopping centers, and downtown Gainesville.
Are there grocery stores nearby? Are they within walking distance?
- Trader Joe's -- 2.7 mi
- Westgate Publix -- 3.9 mi
- Whole Foods -- 3.2 mi
Note: Community is designed for car-friendly living
What local restaurants are nearby?
Nearby dining options include:
- Chick-Fil-A -- 1.5 mi
- Hana Sushi -- 3.1 mi
- Cheesecake Factory -- 3.0 mi
- Fresh Kitchen -- 1.5 mi
- McAllister's -- 1.5 mi
What coffee shops are nearby?
Nearby coffee options:
- The Honeybee Cafe -- 2.0 mi
- Ellianos Coffee -- 2.4 mi
- Foxtail Coffee Co -- 3.0
What is there to do nearby?
Highlights near Lakewood Villas include:
- Celebration Pointe Shopping Center -- 2.8 mi
- Skate Station Funworks -- 2.9 mi
- Splitz -- 2.8 mi
- Harn Museum of Art -- 2.9 mi
What is the nearest public transportation?
The Gainesville Regional Transit System has a stop right outside the entrance of our community.
What is the commute like to UF Campus?
The commute from Lakewood Villas to UF Campus:
- By car: approximately 10 minutes
- By public transit: Please visit https://www.gainesvillefl.gov/Government-Pages/Government/Departments/Transportation/RTS for the most up to date public transport routes.
What schools are in the district?
Lakewood Villas is served by the Alachua County School Board:
- Elementary School: Littlewood
- Middle School: Kanapaha
- High School: Buchholz
For more options visit GreatSchools.org or contact the Alachua County School Board directly.