How to Find an Apartment with no Credit Check or Bad Credit
If you have bad credit, finding a landlord willing to rent an apartment to you can be a challenge. A majority of landlords runs a credit check on your application, although a small minority does not. Some landlords may be willing to take a chance on renting an apartment to you even with your bad credit score. However, you will likely need patience, perseverance and a substantial amount of money, not to mention a bit of luck.
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Things You'll Need
- Large deposit
- Consumer credit reports and FICO scores
- Tenant screening report
- References
- Co-signer
Instructions
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Seek listings from private owners and smaller apartment complexes. These individuals and rental agencies are less likely to run a credit check on prospective tenants.
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Collect favorable references from employers, former tenants and respected community members. Good references, especially when offered with a larger up-front payment, may persuade a landlord to rent to you despite your bad credit.
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Obtain your consumer credit report from all three major credit reporting bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, including FICO scores. Correct any errors. Prepare explanations for adverse items that are accurate.
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Obtain a copy of your tenant screening report from tenant screening agencies that operate in your area. Correct any inaccurate items and be prepared to explain any accurate adverse reports.
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Begin saving money. Some landlords overlook poor credit if you offer a larger security deposit or offer to pay for several months up front.
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Obtain a co-signer -- most likely a family member or friend. Demonstrate to your co-signer that you have the means to afford an apartment and that you will make rent payments on time.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have mitigating factors for past credit problems such as job loss or serious illness, ask to meet with the landlord in person to offer your explanation.
Allow yourself sufficient lead time (a minimum of two months, although more time is certainly better) to obtain and correct credit reports and tenant screening records before beginning your apartment search.
Be neatly dressed and well groomed when you approach prospective landlords. Making a good visual impression can only help your case.
Unauthorized subletting or renting an apartment under the table could result in eviction if the landlord discovers your deception.
Beware of so-called professional co-signer services. Check any service with the Better Business Bureau or your state attorney general's office before paying any money.
References
- Bankrate.com; Your Credit History and Your Rent; Brigitte Yuille; October 2007
- "Los Angeles Times"; Renting an Apartment With Bad Credit Isn't Easy; Liz Pulliam Weston; October 2010
- LSNJ Law: Bad Credit May Not Be a Good Reason -- Why You Shouldn't Give Up Just Because You Are Told You Have Poor Credit
- LoanSafe; Rent an Apartment with Bad Credit; Moe Bedard; January 2010
