How to Get an Apartment After Filing Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy does not need to end your apartment search.

Looking for an apartment after filing bankruptcy can be frustrating because it might influence whether you get to lay your head on your own bed or on someone's living room couch. Though bankruptcy is a legal route to excusing unpaid debts, it can affect your life before the judge has even signed his or her name on the order. Being prepared before apartment hunting after a bankruptcy is advised and could get you the apartment you crave instead of your parents converted basement.

Instructions

1. Gather any form of evidence that allows the potential landlord to verify your ability to pay your rent. After completing a bankruptcy discharge, some landlords might be leery of renting from you out of fear that you are more prone to skip out on your rental obligation. Alleviate this fear by organizing your income documentation in flippable binders with recent paycheck stubs, bank statements showing a good standing and excellent employment references.

2. Locate apartment complexes that are not corporate owned or try to rent from someone with a property who doesn't mind taking a chance on you. The idea is to gain a good rental history with your new landlord. This will enable you to apply in the future for the luxury apartment you desire with an excellent new rental history.

3. Dress in clean and pressed attire when visiting any potential landlord. The way you look could affect whether the landlord chooses to rent to you. Always go for the responsible suit and tie or dress and heels instead of wearing your grungiest jeans and beat up sneakers.

4. Ask if applying extra deposit will give the potential landlord more assurance of your stability if he or she seems reluctant to rent to you. The offer will show your willingness to meet your rental obligation and provide added financial assurance.

5. Renting a spare bedroom in someone's home is an option after bankruptcy. People who rent out a room or rooms in their homes are more likely to judge by the appearance of the tenant rather than check credit history.

References

• American Chronicle: Tips for Renting an Apartment After Bankruptcy
• Youtube: Bankruptcy Information: Renting After Filing Bankruptcy
• File Your Bankruptcy: How Does Renting an Apartment Effect Bankruptcy

Resources

• Renewing a Lease After Bankruptcy