Frequently Asked Questions

View our most frequently asked questions below. Still have questions that you can't find below? Feel free to text us and we will point you in the right direction!

Leasing/Rent Information

How can I apply for an apartment? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Applying is simple and paperless! Just visit our website, click Apply in the top menu (or select your desired floor plan/apartment and tap Apply Online), then follow the prompts to complete your application.

Who should apply on the application? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Any occupant over the age of 18 is required to complete an application and sign the lease as a responsible lease holder.

What if I’m not ready to apply? What other options are there? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

No problem—if you’re not quite ready, click Contact Us or stop by the leasing office for a visit. We’re happy to answer questions and encourage you to apply early to lock in current rates.

What are the lease terms that are offered? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

We offer flexible lease terms, each with its own pricing structure so you can choose the length that fits your lifestyle. For more details, click Live Here from the menu, and select a home to see the pricing.

Does it cost anything to take a tour? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Tours are always free! We’d love to show you around our community and available homes at no charge. Stop by today to take a self-guided tour - no appointment necessary!

Do I have to make an appointment, or do you accept walk-ins? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

No appointment is needed—take a self‑guided tour during office hours and see as much of our community, amenities, and apartment homes as you would like! Just stop by during office hours to explore at your own pace.

Can I get a price reduction if I sign a longer lease or pay for rent a year in advance? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

We offer tiered pricing based on lease length, but we do not accept advance rent payments beyond what is due monthly. Pricing is based on current lease term availability and may change.

What is the renters’ insurance policy? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

We require renter's insurance with a liability protection minimum of $100,000 for the protection of our Community. We also recommend you obtain personal renter's insurance for the protection of your belongings. Residents are automatically enrolled in the Resident Indemnity Management program to satisfy our lease requirement. If you wish to opt out of this program, opt out requirements are in the lease. While it's not required, we also encourage our residents to obtain personal property insurance.

What fees will I need to pay if I have to break my lease? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Early termination fees and policies vary by community. Please refer to your lease agreement for the specific terms and conditions that apply.

How do I pay my rent online? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

As part of the Cottonwood Bayview community, you will have access to pay online through your Resident Portal. Once logged in, click Make a Payment, enter your payment amount and details then submit the payment.

How do I transfer to a new apartment? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

To transfer within our community, contact the leasing office to discuss availability and any applicable transfer fee. If you are relocating out of state, we also offer a sister community transfer! Contact the leasing office for more details.

What schools is Cottonwood Bayview zoned for? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Cottonwood Bayview is zoned for North Shore Elementary, John Hopkins Middle and St. Petersburg High School.

The Apartments

Do you have furnished apartments? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

No, we do not offer any furnished apartments.  

Do all of your apartments have the same finishes? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Yes. All of our apartments include espresso cabinetry with granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances.

Do all of your apartments include washer and dryer? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Yes. All apartments include a full-size washer and dryer.

What is included in the rent price? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

The amount displayed on our website reflects your base rent only. For a full breakdown of additional mandatory monthly charges (utilities, fees) and any optional services, please refer to the Understanding Costs page in the menu.

How do I setup electricity? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Once you apply and receive approval, you will contact Duke Energy at (727) 443-2641 or online by clicking here. Contact information is also provided on your reservation agreement and welcome letter. You will provide Duke Energy your lease start date and full mailing address including apartment number to start your service.

What do you look for in the application? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

We use a third-party, independent screening service that assesses your credit, rental history, and employment history. They also complete a background check.

Who is the provider for internet and cable in this area? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Spectrum and Frontier/Verizon provide our community's internet.

Our Policies

What is your pet policy? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

We're very pet-friendly, and we welcome up to two furry friends (dogs and cats only) per apartment, with no weight limit. A pet fee and monthly pet rent apply per pet. Pets must always be leashed when outside and are not allowed in common areas, the pool, or amenity spaces. Exotic pets are not permitted. Certain breeds are restricted, including Malamute, Mastiff, Bull Terrier breeds, Akita, Husky, Bully Kutta, Chow Chow, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd Dog, Rottweiler, Pit Bull, wolf hybrids, or any mix with dominant traits geared toward aggression. Management reserves the right to restrict any breed at their discretion. All animals must have an application completed at PetScreening.com.

What is the parking policy at Cottonwood Bayview? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Parking is first come, first served in the parking garage for one vehicle per leaseholder. Additional vehicles per leaseholder or reserved parking are available for an additional cost. Residents are required to have decals on their vehicles. Visitors can park on the 1st floor before the gate.

Will I be allowed to sublet my apartment? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

No, we do not allow sublets.

Our Amenities

Do you have garages? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

No, we do not have individual garages; however, we do have a parking garage.

Do you have storage units available? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Storage is available in various sizes and prices. Contact us for more information and view our Understanding Costs page for pricing. We also offer bike storage.

How do I send packages? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

With our "Shipping Made Easy" process, you can ship packages by dropping them off in our leasing office.  We'll hand them to the courier for you! Click here to learn more.

How can I apply for an apartment? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Our application process is online and entirely paperless making the process smooth and efficient for you. From our website, click Apply in the top menu bar or click Floor Plans, choose a floor plan, then unit, then click Apply Online.

What are the hours for the amenities? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Residents have 24/7 access to our game room lounge on the 8th floor, clubhouse, Apt CoWork space, and bike storage/dog wash. The fitness center is open from 4 AM to midnight. The pool is open from dawn until dusk. The pool deck and cityscape terraces are open until 11 PM.

How accessible is the team at the local office? Expand FAQ Close FAQ

Our staff is available during office hours to assist you seven days a week! You can also email us anytime, and we’ll respond during office hours. All of our communities offer 24-hour emergency maintenance as well–simply call us and a member of our service team will come out for emergency maintenance requests.