Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help. 

Finding the right apartment near Florida Gulf Coast University comes with a lot of questions, and we believe getting answers should be simple. We are here to provide clear, straightforward information about leasing, amenities, policies, and what it’s like to live at The Reef Student Living. Whether you're planning ahead or ready to apply, you'll find the details you need to feel confident in your decision. 

  • The Reef Student Living offers a variety of modern floor plans, including four bedroom apartments and five bedroom townhomes. 

  • Individual leasing, also known as “by-the-bedroom leasing,” means each resident signs their own lease for a private bedroom within a shared apartment home. 

    With this structure, residents are only financially responsible for their individual lease agreement, which includes their private bedroom and a portion of the shared common areas. This provides added peace of mind, as you are not liable for your roommates’ rent, lease obligations, or any damages that may occur within their personal spaces. 

    Unlike traditional joint leases, individual leasing offers greater flexibility and financial security, making it a popular option for student living 

  • At The Reef, we understand that a great living experience starts with the right roommate match. During the application process, each resident completes a Roommate Interest Questionnaire, which captures preferences related to lifestyle, study habits, sleep schedules, and more. 

     

    Our team carefully reviews these responses to identify the most compatible matches available. While we cannot guarantee placement preferences, this thoughtful process is designed to create a comfortable and cohesive living environment for all residents. 

  • Yes! The Reef provides a complimentary shuttle service to FGCU exclusively for our residents. With scheduled routes designed around peak class times, getting to campus is both convenient and dependable so you can focus more on your day and less on your commute. 

  • Our community offers a wide range of amenities designed for comfort, convenience, and connection, creating a space that supports both productivity and relaxation. Residents can enjoy controlled access gates, two resort-style pools, a 24/7 fitness center, and a resident lounge with arcade games, along with study lounges, private study rooms, free printing, and a coffee bar. Outdoor features like a poolside firepit and hammock garden, plus reserved parking, valet trash and recycling, bike racks, and a free shuttle to FGCU add everyday ease. Inside each fully furnished apartment, features like wood-style plank flooring, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, in-unit washers and dryers, walk-in closets, private bathrooms, smart TVs, and smart thermostats create a comfortable and connected living experience.

  • Our standard security deposit is waived for all applicants. A conditional approval deposit may be due for self-qualifying applicants. Applicants who select “I’ll pay a deposit” will be required to pay a deposit equal to 2 months’ rent. 

  • Applicants may qualify by using one of the following options: 

    Guarantor 
    A guarantor is typically a parent or guardian who is financially responsible for the lease. Guarantors must reside in the United States and have a valid Social Security number. A minimum credit score of 600 and income equal to three times the monthly base rent is required. Proof of income is required, and all guarantors must pass credit, background, rental history, and income screening. 

    Self-Qualification 
    Applicants must have a qualifying credit score and income equal to three times the monthly base rent. Proof of income is required, and applicants must pass credit, background, rental history, and income screening. 

    Security Deposit  
    The security deposit is equal to two months' rent and must be paid at the time of lease signing. 

    Guarantor Waiver Program 
    We offer a third-party guarantor waiver program for an additional monthly fee. This option requires no upfront costs and provides instant approval upon verification of student status. 

  • Wi-Fi is included in your monthly rental installment. Electric, water, and sewer are not included and are billed monthly through Simple Bills. Valet Trash service is provided by Trash Butler for an additional month fee.  

  • The Reef Student Living is pet friendly with weight and breed restrictions. A one-time non-refundable pet fee and monthly pet rent apply. Please contact the leasing office for more details. 

  • Tours can be scheduled by contacting the leasing office by phone or booking directly through our website. Walk-in tours are also welcome! 

  • Yes! Our on-site maintenance team is available 24/7 to assist with repair requests and apartment concerns based on the level of priority. 

  • For urgent maintenance emergencies, please contact the office during business hours or follow the after-hours call prompt. Emergency requests may also be submitted through the resident portal by selecting emergency priority. For life threatening emergencies, please contact 911. 

  • Rent is due on the first of each month and is paid through the resident portal. Late Fees are applied on the 4th of each month.   

  • Yes. Liability Insurance is required for all residents. Residents are automatically enrolled in the Foxen Liability Insurance program for an additional monthly fee. Residents are welcome to opt out of our program but must provide proof of their own coverage to meet this requirement. To learn more about this program, visit https://www.foxen.com/residents/how-it-works  

  • Get the credit you deserve for making on-time rent payments! Rentistry will report your rent payments to leading credit bureaus, so you can improve your financial health.  Residents are automatically opted in the Rentistry program for an additional monthly fee. Residents are welcome to opt out of this program directly with Foxen. To learn more about this program visit https://www.foxen.com/residents/rentistry  

  • Each apartment includes essential furniture, with some items varying by floor plan. Please refer to the floor plan layouts listed on our website for specific details. 

    • In unit washer and dryer 

    • Couch *size varies by floor plan 

    • Loveseat *in select units 

    • Smart TV 

    • Bar stools  

    • Full size bed *in select units 

    • Queen size bed *in select units 

    • Desk and chair 

    • Coffee table 

    • End Table 

    • Entertainment stand 

    • Two under bed dressers 

    • Nightstand 

  • Subletting is not permitted. Residents may reassign their lease by finding a qualified replacement and paying a fee equal to 85% of on months rent. For more details on the Reassignment process, please contact our office.  

    Lease Reassignment Guidelines 

    • Residents must notify the leasing office of intent to vacate 

    • The current resident is responsible for finding a qualified replacement 

    • An assignment fee equal to one month’s rent applies 

    • All outstanding balances must be paid before reassignment is finalized 

    • Lease concessions do not transfer 

    • The new lease rate will match the original lease rate 

    • Rent is not prorated 

    Reassignment Process 

    • Resident notifies the leasing office 

    • Replacement completes an application and meets all rental criteria 

    • Replacement signs a new lease 

    • Current resident pays the reassignment fee and clears all balances 

    • Original resident responsibility ends once the replacement moves in and pays rent 

  • Yes. Unit transfers are available for an additional transfer fee. Please contact the leasing office to discuss available options. 

  • Each unit has a designated shared mailbox. 

  • Yes! Standard parking is available and included in your monthly rent. All vehicles must be registered with our office and display a valid parking permit. Reserved spaces are also available for an additional monthly fee. 

  • Yes. The Reef offers guest parking in spaces on a first come, first served basis. All guests are required to park in spaces marked “Visitor.” Vehicles parked in resident parking without a valid parking permit will be towed at the Owners expense.  

  • No. The total rent for the lease term is a set amount and is payable in advance in twelve equal monthly installments.