The off base housing area consists of the Tri-County area, which
includes Montgomery, Prattville, Millbrook and Wetumpka. Travel time
from all areas is between 10-30 minutes. Housing ranges from brand new to
historical homes. Many of these homes are nestled among parks,
neighborhood schools, churches and restaurants. Most rental homes require a
12-month lease. In most cases the military clause will not release
students (ACSC and AWC) from this 12-month obligation. Be sure to
discuss this with your landlord to avoid any misunderstanding. Area rental
agencies usually require a deposit equal to one month's rent and the first
month's rent up front.
The housing office at Maxwell offers
housing referral services for locating suitable off-base
housing. Rental listings by number of bedrooms and price ranges are
available through the housing office.
If entering into a rental
agreement, the Maxwell housing office advises individuals to read their lease
carefully. If it's not in the lease than it doesn't
exist. Pay close attention to the deposit (make sure it states the
landlord will refund the deposit if there is no damage to the house),
maintenance issues (be sure there is a $ amount on minor and major maintenance
and who is responsible) and make sure it contains the military clause. It is
also a good idea to take pictures of the inside and outside of the house before
moving in. Most pet deposits are non-refundable.
Before you enter into
an agreement take a serious look at your financial picture. Check
utilities, driving distances, hidden costs, etc. Make an appointment with the
Family Support Center's Personal Financial Management Program Manager to
establish a realistic budget. This will better prepare you for house
hunting selection.
Average Rental Housing Ranges in the
Area:
Average Rates for Apartment Rentals
| Apartment Size |
Rate Range |
| 1 Bedroom |
$400-$600/m |
| 2 Bedroom |
$500-$700/m |
| 3 Bedroom |
$700-1000/m |
| 4 Bedroom |
$1000-$1400/m |
Average Rates for Home Rentals
| Size of Home |
Rate Range |
| 2 Bedroom |
$500-$800/m |
| 3 Bedroom |
$700-$1200/m |
| 4 Bedroom |
$1000-$2000/m |
Before
You Sign a Lease:There are no tenant protection laws in the state of
Alabama. Therefore, leases are usually quite detailed. You
should read the lease carefully and thoroughly. The Maxwell Housing
Office will review the lease if you request it. If your lease does
not contain a Military Clause most landlords will add one upon
request. Most Military Clauses DO NOT release you to accept base
housing. If you are assigned to Maxwell as a student for less than a
year, you should be aware that most leases cover a full 12 month period and you
will be expected to pay for this entire period.
In Montgomery, most
deposits for utilities are waived for active duty military. Please contact the
Housing Office for more information. In the outlying areas, you may
be required to pay a small deposit ($40-$50), which is usually
refundable.
The Housing Office can also assist with the housing needs for
service members with an exceptional family member.
Visit Contacts/Links
for more information on rental properties.