Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about FurnoRooms.

Q:  Who would find FurnoRooms to be a good match?
 A:  It's perfect for a working single person or a serious student who wants quiet and privacy.

Q:  How bad must one of your FurnoRooms be for Only $195 per month?
 A:  It's perfect for people willing to share a kitchen and bathroom with other prescreened tenants because you're always assured private, courteous and convenient access to these areas.

Q:  Are the rooms securely locked, private, and comfortable?
 A:  Absolutely, and every one is carpeted and neatly furnished.

 Q:  Are they clean?
A:  Yes, for the first week. But the other 51 weeks are up to you, just like in an apartment.

Q:  What if I was really used to being a more "Traditional Apartment Person"? How many others would I have to deal with? And what differences should I expect?
A:
1.) Very few differences exist, it's even easier than sharing an apartment with someone.
2.) You'd share a bath and kitchen with 1 to 4 others usually. Ironically, we've discovered that the more there are, the better. (Don't ask why) it's almost as if they have more respect for others privacy.
3.) Issues of visitors, cleanliness, quietness, and drug and alcohol and noise abuses are NOT tolerated any more than they 'd be tolerated in an apartment building.
4.) In a nut-shell: Everyone is treated like a responsible adult...AND THESE ISSUES REALLY ARE NOT PROBLEMS.
5.) Some Furnoroom renters have come to like it better than shared apartments with friends, here is why:
A) Same responsibilities to keep kitchen and bathroom reasonable.
B) More privacy and less responsibility for others.

Q:  What is the most convenient way to see one that is available?
 A:  Check the pictures of the rooms on this web site first to be sure one is available and if you seem to like what it looks like. If none are available, contact us anyway - our waiting list moves fast for good applicants.

Q:  How do I see one, reserve one or get immediate first dibs if I really like it?
 A:  1.) Very easy! Call our manager at (412) 848-2000 or (412) 264-5595, ANYTIME.
2.) Some people like to bring their check book to hold one. ($100 is customary.)
3.) You don't even have to wait until the first of next month. We'll run our cycles starting on whatever day of the month is most convenient for you, so if you want to start on the 6th or 21st of a month for example, we can do just that for you.

Q:  OK, your FurnoRooms seem reasonably priced. But I bet you make it up on utilities or somewhere else?
A:  You SAVE-EVEN-MORE on utilities! Where else can you get all utilities for only $95 per month? (Includes heat, gas, water, sewage, trash removal, electric - everything!)

 Q:  How does your utility program work?
A:  1.) We think we found a win/win system to save you money!
2.) After utility bills arrive each month, the total cost is divided out by tenants.
3.) Of course this means you pay for other's baths and they are paying for your TV.
4.) (But please, take as many baths and watch as much computer or TV you're comfortable with...But just don't waste... especially opening windows in the winter.)

Q:  But aren't winter utility bills higher? And is there a budget plan like utility companies use?
A:  1.) Yes, some tenants are billed at a slightly different rate because seasonal utility differences are factored in (pegged to each person's move-in date).

Q:  Why does your utility program work so well to help everybody?
 A:  Everyone has a vested interest in not wasting, because your actual share is adjusted once a year, either at the same time, or when you move. So you stand to gain by not wasting.

Q:  Are there any other additional items or expenses?
A:  Yes. Usually cable is available for only $10 per month. Compared to the $60 most others pay for cable you'll save another $50.

Q:  How do your FurnoRooms compare to most apartment alternatives?
 A:  Most nice carpeted apartments rent in the following price range:

 Q:  What should my Income and Budget be to qualify for one of your FurnoRooms?
 A:  Usually about $255 or $265 per month. Monthly income should be over $900/month, unless:
1. Applicant has long term job
2. Good rental payment history or extra security deposit

 Q:  Do you have anything bigger or a little nicer for a little more?
 A:  Yes. Small Suites go for an extra $30 per month, but qualification is a little more difficult.

 Q:  How does one qualify?
 A:  1.) It's very easy if you have had a steady, continuous employment and rental history from a non-relative over a reasonable period of time, the longer, the better.
2.) We also screen for people with common sense and common consideration for others.
3.) For example: The fully equipped kitchen exists for you to use.
A - Obviously, clean up after yourself for the sake of the next person.
B - And if you don't have enough common sense or people skills to know this, you should be looking at those $1000 a-month rentals instead... really!

 Q:  Are there any exceptions or ways to qualify if one has a good reason for NOT meeting one of your criteria outlined above?
 A:  1.) A security deposit is a way to buy time and also to prove to us you'll always pay on time. The standard amount for the deposit is $490 for the smallest FurnoRoom available.
2.) If you have  extra qualifications, income, history of credibility and security deposit, you'd qualify for one of our biggest suites if you so choose. $590 security deposit is needed for them.

 Q:  Would I be permitted to bring in my own apartment refrigerator, microwave or air conditioner in the summer time?
 A:  Absolutely. The air conditioner would be an extra $25 a month in summer, (in fairness to everyone else splitting costs). The microwave and apartment refrigerator would be free.

 Q:  Can I bring in my own furniture, and basically have an unfurnished or partially furnished FurnoRoom? And how does it work?
 A:  Absolutely. Once you've selected your favorite FurnoRoom, choose what furniture is to be removed at no extra cost. Some prefer using their own furniture instead of having to put it into expensive storage.

 Q:  What type of Leases are required? And what are advantages to the tenant?
 A:  We use the Standard one-year lease. Nobody wants unstable transient types, do we?

 Q:  Can I buy out of the lease, if there is a chance I might retransfer in my job?
 A:  1.) That is a fair question. And it points to another great advantage of our FurnoRooms.
2.) Think about it, and compare it to both a standard Motel or Apartment:
A - It cost more than $195 to stay at a motel for only 1 week!
B - To walk away from a standard apartment lease @ $1000 a month with 10 months remaining leaves a $10,000 permanent credit ding that has to to be paid off in the future (if you ever hope to own anything in your name in your life!)
3.) Both scenarios save you money in our plan:
A - As long  as you're current and occupied the room less than 1 year. The cost is $195 plus your 12 month security deposit.
B - If you've stayed beyond your customary 1 year commitment (only FurnoRoom renter's get this!), you may forfeit your security deposit if you give us 30 days notice to find another renter.  FurnoRooms helps you either way.