Tallwood Homes: Affordable Apartments in South Carolina

What Tallwood Homes offers

Tallwood Homes is a nonprofit housing organization that develops and manages affordable rental apartments across South Carolina. The organization focuses on creating stable housing for families, seniors, and individuals with low to moderate incomes, operating properties in multiple communities throughout the state.

Tallwood Homes manages a portfolio of rental communities rather than a single location. Each property operates with its own lease terms, move-in requirements, and availability. The organization's mission centers on providing quality, affordable housing as a foundation for residents to build stable lives.

As a nonprofit developer, Tallwood Homes often works with state and federal funding sources to keep rents below market rates. This means the rent you pay is typically lower than comparable apartments in the same area, though the specific amount depends on the property, your household income, and local market conditions.

Key Takeaways

• Tallwood Homes operates multiple rental properties across South Carolina, each with separate leasing offices and availability.
• Rent is typically based on a percentage of your household income, though the exact formula varies by property and funding source.
• You will need to provide proof of income, employment history, and references when you contact a specific property to learn about current openings.
• Each Tallwood Homes community has its own application process and timeline, so contacting the property directly is the fastest way to understand what is available.

How to find Tallwood Homes properties near you

Tallwood Homes does not operate a single central leasing office. Instead, each property has its own management team and leasing staff. To find out what apartments are available in your area, you will need to contact Tallwood Homes directly or search for their properties by region.

The organization's website lists their current communities and includes contact information for each one. You can also call their main office to ask which properties are located closest to you and whether any have current openings. Staff can tell you the general income limits, rent ranges, and what documents you will need to bring when you visit.

Some Tallwood Homes properties focus on specific populations—such as seniors, families with children, or people transitioning out of homelessness—so asking about the community type helps you find the right fit. Properties in rural areas, small towns, and larger cities may have different amenities and lease terms.

Income limits and rent calculations

Tallwood Homes properties use income-based rent, meaning what you pay each month is tied to what your household earns. The exact percentage varies depending on which funding program supports that particular property—some use 30 percent of gross income, others use different formulas.

Each property has its own income limits, which change based on household size and the area's median income. A three-person household in one county may have a different limit than a three-person household in another. When you contact a specific property, staff will tell you the current limits and whether your household income falls within their range.

Income includes wages, Social Security, disability payments, child support, and other regular sources. You will need to bring recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements to verify your income. If your income is above the property's limit, you may not be able to rent there, though some properties have a small number of market-rate units available to existing residents.

What you need to bring when you apply

Each Tallwood Homes property has its own application process, but most require similar documents. You will typically need a photo ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or benefit letters), and permission to run a background and credit check.

Properties also ask for references—usually from previous landlords or employers—to verify that you have paid rent on time and maintained your housing. If you have no rental history, a character reference from someone who knows you well can sometimes substitute. Some properties may ask about your employment history or reasons for leaving previous housing.

Bring any documents you have ready when you visit or call. Staff can tell you exactly what they need and whether anything can be submitted later. Having these materials prepared speeds up the process and shows the leasing office you are serious about moving forward.

Timeline and move-in process

The time from application to move-in varies by property and how quickly you can provide required documents. Most Tallwood Homes communities process applications within two to four weeks, though this depends on how busy the leasing office is and whether your documents are complete.

Once your application is approved, you will sign a lease and pay a security deposit. The deposit amount is set by each property and is typically refundable when you move out, provided there is no damage beyond normal wear. You may also pay a small application fee, though some properties waive this.

Before you move in, the property will conduct a walk-through inspection and provide you with a move-in checklist. This documents the condition of the apartment and protects both you and the landlord. Ask about utility setup, parking, and any community rules or amenities during this time.

Services and community features

Tallwood Homes properties often include amenities beyond the apartment itself. Many communities offer community rooms, playgrounds, or outdoor spaces. Some properties provide supportive services such as job training referrals, financial literacy workshops, or connections to local resources.

The specific services depend on the property's funding and mission. A community designed for seniors may offer transportation assistance or health screenings, while a family-focused property might have after-school programs or childcare resources. When you contact a property, ask what services or programs are available to residents.

Tallwood Homes also emphasizes resident involvement. Many communities have tenant associations or resident councils where you can have a voice in community decisions. Participating in these groups is optional but can help you build connections and stay informed about property changes or improvements.

How to contact Tallwood Homes

Start by visiting the Tallwood Homes website or calling their main office to get a list of properties in your region. Staff can answer general questions about income limits, rent ranges, and the types of communities available. They can also tell you which properties currently have openings or expect openings soon.

Once you identify a property you are interested in, contact that community's leasing office directly. The leasing staff can answer specific questions about that property's lease terms, move-in costs, and application requirements. They can also schedule a time for you to tour the apartment and meet with the leasing team.

If you have questions about affordability programs or need help understanding your options, Tallwood Homes staff can point you toward other resources in your area. Many communities also work with local nonprofits and government agencies that may offer additional support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a South Carolina resident to rent from Tallwood Homes?

No specific residency requirement exists statewide, but individual properties may have their own policies. Contact the specific community you are interested in to ask about their requirements. Some properties prioritize local residents, while others do not have location restrictions.

What happens if my income increases after I move in?

Most leases include an annual income recertification. If your income rises above the property's limit, your rent may increase or you may be asked to move. However, many programs include protections that allow you to stay at your current rent for a set period. Ask about your property's income recertification policy when you sign your lease.

Can I get a lease if I have a criminal record or eviction history?

Each property makes its own decisions about background checks. Some have strict policies, while others consider the circumstances and time elapsed. Contact the leasing office directly and be honest about your history. They can tell you whether that particular community will consider your application.

Are utilities included in the rent?

This varies by property. Some Tallwood Homes apartments include water and trash in the rent, while others require you to pay utilities separately. Ask the leasing office which utilities are your responsibility and what the average monthly cost is for that community.

What if I need a reasonable accommodation for a disability?

Tallwood Homes properties must follow fair housing laws and provide reasonable accommodations. Contact the leasing office or property manager to discuss your needs. They can explain what accommodations are available and what documentation may be required.