Frequently Asked
Questions, answered.
The things prospects ask us most — pet policy, leases, parking, internet, and what it’s really like to live here. Don’t see your question? Call Rob at (619) 867-8027 or email .
Leasing & Applying
What’s the security deposit, and what does it cost to apply?
The standard security deposit is $750. Application fee is $45 per adult occupant or guarantor. If you’re bringing a pet, add $300 per pet to the deposit (two pets max).
What are your income and credit requirements?
We require verifiable gross monthly income of at least 2.5× the rent. We don’t set a hard credit score cutoff — we look at overall payment history. Cosigners and guarantors are welcome, which accommodates applicants with limited credit or rental history.
What lease terms do you offer?
We offer flexible lease terms including month-to-month. That’s rare in Hillcrest, and it works well for anyone on a flexible timeline — whether you’re on a short-term work assignment, relocating, or just not ready to commit to 12 months. Standard 12-month leases are also available.
Is there an on-site office? How do tours work?
No on-site leasing office — and that’s by design. All tours are by appointment, which means you get Rob’s full attention rather than waiting in a lobby. Text or call (619) 867-8027 and he’ll set a time that works for you.
How do I apply?
Apply online through our secure portal — it takes about 15 minutes and applications are typically reviewed within a couple of business days. Start your application →
Prefer to tour first? Call Rob — he’s the one who picks up.
Living at Hillcrest Place
Is Hillcrest Place pet-friendly?
Yes. We welcome indoor cats and small dogs up to 25 pounds, with a $300 pet deposit per pet. Maximum of two pets per unit. The gated courtyard provides an enclosed outdoor space, and Hillcrest has no shortage of dog-friendly patios and green space within a block or two.
What’s included in each unit?
Every unit includes a refrigerator, stove, and garbage disposal, plus a wall heater. Units are unfurnished. A modest facelift is planned for this year or next, bringing wood-style tile accents and fresh finishes throughout.
Is there air conditioning? Can I bring my own?
No built-in AC — but portable AC units with a vent hose are welcome (the kind with a tube that vents out the window; the window-box style that sticks out is not permitted). Most residents don’t need one. Hillcrest sits four miles from the Pacific at about 350 feet of elevation, so ocean breezes and average July highs in the mid-70s carry most of the summer. Units have wall heaters for the cool months and open well for cross-ventilation.
What internet is available? Are utilities included?
Three gigabit providers serve the building: Cox, AT&T Fiber, and Google Fiber. That’s real competition on price and speed — rare for San Diego. Pick whichever you like.
Utilities are billed separately. Renters insurance is required.
Is there parking?
Yes. Assigned uncovered spaces are $60/month; covered carport spaces are $80/month. Assigned means the space is yours — no competing with neighbors at 11 p.m. Street parking is usually available on surrounding blocks for visitors.
Is there on-site laundry?
Yes. On-site laundry is available 24 hours a day. Handy if you need to run a load at an unusual hour.
Is there a resident app?
Yes. Residents have a mobile app for online rent payments, maintenance requests, and a community message board. Everything that used to require a phone call or a visit to a leasing office happens in the app — though Rob still picks up when you call.
Is smoking allowed?
Hillcrest Place is a non-smoking community — units, courtyard, and common areas.
Can I sublet or list my unit on Airbnb?
No. Hillcrest Place doesn’t permit subletting or short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO, or similar). This is a place to live, not to host.
The Building & Neighborhood
Is the building gated?
Yes. Hillcrest Place is a gated courtyard building with controlled-access entry, on a cul-de-sac. The courtyard features a gas barbecue and seating area shared by all residents — a genuine shared living room for grilling, dinner outside, or an afternoon of working from your laptop in the shade.
What’s the building like — floors, elevator, accessibility?
Hillcrest Place is a two-story, ~40-unit courtyard building originally built in 1961. There is no elevator. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for residents and applicants with disabilities — please contact us to discuss your needs, and see our fair housing commitment for more information.
What makes the location convenient?
Hillcrest Place sits on a cul-de-sac — so the building is a block or two from everything Hillcrest is known for (dining, coffee, hospitals, nightlife) without being on any of the main through-streets. It’s a walkable address in a neighborhood that has everything you need.
Is there EV charging nearby?
Yes. An Electrify America fast-charging station is one block from the building. Convenient for any EV driver without tying up the building’s electrical with slower in-unit charging.
How close is Hillcrest Place to Scripps Mercy and UCSD Medical Center?
Both hospitals are walkable. Scripps Mercy Hospital is an 11-minute walk door-to-door. UC San Diego Medical Center Hillcrest is about 21 minutes on foot, or a short bus ride on the 10. See our healthcare workers page for full commute details.
What’s the neighborhood like?
Hillcrest is one of San Diego’s most walkable neighborhoods — Walk Score 93, Transit Score 56, Bike Score 82. Inclusive, dense with independent restaurants and cafes, a weekly Sunday farmers market, and enough bars, bookstores, and corner coffee shops that you could live car-light for real. Trader Joe’s, Ralph’s, and Whole Foods are all within a 10-minute walk. Balboa Park is a longer walk or a short drive.
Our neighborhood guide has the full rundown.
Still have a question?
Rob picks up the phone. Seriously.