FAQ
Questions, answered.
For members
What is OC?
OC, short for Open Chord, rents private, furnished rooms in shared homes. You get your own room with a lock, and you share the kitchen, living room and other common spaces with your housemates. Rent, furniture, utilities and Wi-Fi come in one payment.
Where is OC available?
Our first homes open in Nashville, Tennessee in 2027. We plan to be in cities across the country in 2028. See the cities page and ask to be notified for yours.
Do I pay weekly or monthly?
Your choice. Rooms are priced by the week, and you can pay weekly or switch to one monthly payment.
What does the payment include?
Your private furnished room, use of the shared spaces, utilities, Wi-Fi and laundry access where the home has it. Each room page lists exactly what's included.
Is there a minimum credit score?
We plan to have no minimum credit score. We look at verified income and identity, and screen every applicant the same way using written criteria.
Is there a security deposit?
We plan to charge no security deposit. There is a one-time application fee, refunded if you aren't approved, and a one-time move-in fee.
Do I sign a lease?
You sign an OC membership agreement for your room. The planned minimum stay is a few months, with no maximum. Stay as long as you like.
Can I see a room before I move in?
Yes. When a home opens you can book an in-person or video tour.
Can I move to a different OC home?
Yes. Members can transfer to another OC room, and your first transfer is planned to be free.
Can I live in OC if I've had an eviction or a conviction?
Maybe. We don't reject anyone automatically because of their history. We follow fair housing law, use written criteria and look at each applicant's situation individually.
For hosts
What kind of house works?
Usually four or more bedrooms, or room to add them, in a neighborhood close to jobs, hospitals, campuses or transit, where zoning allows shared living.
How do I get paid?
Depending on the arrangement, OC pays a fixed monthly lease, or pays you the rent we collect minus the Homes by OC management fee. Payments are monthly.
Who finds and screens residents?
OC does. Every member is screened the same way, with written criteria that follow fair housing law.
Who handles repairs and cleaning?
OC handles day-to-day maintenance requests, cleaning of shared areas and house rules, and coordinates bigger repairs with you.
Do I have to furnish the house?
We can furnish and set up the house for you as part of getting it ready for members.