Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions? We’re Here To Help.

Finding the right apartment near Northern Arizona 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 Commons at Sawmill. Whether you're planning ahead or ready to apply, you'll find the details you need to feel confident in your decision. 

  • The Commons at Sawmill offers a variety of modern floor plans, including Studio, two bedroom – 2 bathroom, and 4 bedroom – 2 bathroom apartments.  

  • Our community offers a thoughtful mix of amenities designed to support your everyday routine and bring people together. Enjoy access to a fitness center, clubhouse lounge with a fireplace, study lounge with private rooms, and a popcorn and coffee bar, along with an outdoor patio featuring grilling stations, secured package lockers, and bike racks. Inside your apartment, choose from furnished or unfurnished options with wood-style plank flooring, select carpeted bedrooms, a full appliance package, in-unit washer and dryer, and a 55-inch smart TV in the common area.

  • A security deposit is a qualifying option but is not required for all applicants.

  • 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 credit score of 600 or higher 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 1.5 months' rent and must be paid at the time of lease signing. 

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

  • Utilities are not included in the rent. Electric, water, sewer, and gas are billed monthly through the resident portal based on the unit’s usage. Utilities are back billed and the first bill for utilities will typically arrive at the end of October or beginning of November. Since they are back billed, you will be charged accelerated utilities at the end of your lease term for the timeframe that has not been billed yet. Wi-Fi and trash are additional expenses which will appear on your resident portal monthly at the start of your lease. 

  • We offer roughly a 12-month lease term, starting in mid-August through the end of July. Please contact the leasing office with any questions regarding lease options.

  • The Commons at Sawmill is pet friendly with weight and breed restrictions. A one-time non-refundable pet fee and monthly pet rent apply. Animals must be registered before they are allowed onsite. 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 during office hours to assist with repair requests and apartment concerns. They will also be available 24/7 to assist with emergency work orders.

  • 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. 


  • Yes. Renters’ insurance is required for all residents. Residents are automatically enrolled in our renters’ insurance program but may provide proof of their own coverage to meet this requirement. It is the resident’s responsibility to opt out before they automatically get enrolled in our renters’ insurance.  

  • Each furnished apartment includes essential furniture, with some items varying by floor plan. Unfurnished apartments will only have an appliance package. Please refer to the floor plan layouts listed on our website for specific details. 

    • In unit washer and dryer 

    • Couch 

    • Sofa chair *in select units 

    • 55-inch smart TV 

    • Dining table and chairs 

    • Full size bedframe 

    • Full size mattress 

    • Desk and desk chair *in select units 

    • Side table *in select units 

    • Coffee table *in select units 

    • Entertainment stand *in select units 

    • Four drawer dresser 

    • Nightstand *in select units

  • Subletting is not permitted. Residents may reassign their lease by finding a qualified replacement. 

    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 85% of 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 (the resident who is the leaseholder on the 1st of the month will be responsible for the rent payment). 

    • Original resident responsibility ends once the replacement moves in and pays rent (if applicable). 

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

  • Each unit has a designated mailbox, and residents have access to a secure package locker outside of the leasing office.

  • Yes! We offer uncovered parking (unassigned) and covered parking (assigned) for an additional monthly fee. Subject to availability.

  • Guest parking is available throughout the property, with most spaces at the main entrance and center of the community. Guest parking is limited and is available on a first come, first served basis. Guest passes are not required to use these spaces. Limited street parking is also available along O’Leary St in front of the main entrance to the community. Please note, this is city parking and at times they will introduce winter ordinances where parking is prohibited. 

  • No. The total rent for the lease term is a set amount based on the total days in the lease. The monthly installment will not represent rent for that specific month, but rather a payment toward your total balance. This total is payable in twelve equal monthly installments.