A solid credit history is important for many reasons — including acquiring credit accounts or cell phone contracts. Often, you also need credit to rent an apartment. Don’t be afraid to ask a landlord if they have a specific credit score requirement before you spend time or money applying. Show
But if you don’t have a credit history yet — or your credit is lower than you’d like — here are several ways to work around it and (hopefully) get approved. 1. Rent from an individual owner, and beware of scamsMost apartment complexes and management companies require a credit check. However, some individual owners will let you rent without established credit. Generally, these landlords will still ask you to prove income stability. Only rent apartments within your budget, even if you can get approved for a more expensive place. And be cautious of listings for no credit check apartments that seem too good to be true. Some signs that a rental listing is a scam, according to the Federal Trade Commission include:
2. Offer to move in right awayHaving one or more empty apartments is expensive for landlords. They have to pay the mortgage and utilities without any reimbursement in the form of rent. Because of this — especially if you live in a place with low rental demand — you may be able to rent a place without a credit history if you’re able to move in immediately. 3. Prove income or savings balanceIf you don’t have an established credit history, you may be approved if your income is stable and will adequately cover the rent. It’s generally recommended that you keep rent expenses to less than one-third of your take-home pay, so if you make $3,000 a month, you’ll want to look at apartments with a monthly rent of less than $1,000. Keep in mind that as median rent prices skyrocket, it’s not always possible to stick to that guideline. But try your best to find a place with a monthly rent that you can afford. If you don’t have a stable income, a high savings balance may suffice. The savings required will vary depending on the apartment complex or management company, but ideally it should cover several months of rent payments. 4. Pay a few months’ rent upfront as a security depositLandlords will be more likely to rent to you if they have the rent money in hand for a few months. By paying two to three months upfront, your landlord won’t run the risk of you not paying, at least for a while. Make sure this payment is well documented, so you can get it back at the end of your lease. 5. Provide reference lettersProve your character by providing professional references from past employers, professors or teachers. The general assumption is those who are responsible at work and school are more likely to be responsible with their money. These character references are a good way to show you’re a hardworking, responsible person who won’t be late with the rent. Get score change notifications See your free score anytime, get notified when it changes, and build it with personalized insights. 6. Offer to start out month-to-monthBy signing a three-month lease, or going month-to-month, the landlord can opt to not renew you for a longer term if you aren’t paying. Of course, you know you’ll always pay the rent on time, but you have to prove that to your landlord with a good track record of on-time rent payments. 7. Get a co-signer or a roommate
If there aren’t any other options, ask a close friend or family member with good credit to co-sign for you. Understand that if this person agrees, they will be liable for your rent payment if you fail to make it in a timely manner. To keep your personal relationships intact, always make your payment in full and on time. It’s also not a bad idea to consider finding a roommate. If your potential roommate has good credit, it could help increase your odds of getting an apartment. And sharing rent costs will help your budget. 8. Build your creditIf you aren’t looking to move right away or if you’re having trouble getting an apartment, it doesn’t hurt to work on building your credit. You could start by applying for a secured credit card or consider asking someone you trust if you can be added to their card as an authorized user. Some other ways to build credit include taking out a credit-builder loan or using a service like Experian Boost to have your phone and utility payments reported to that credit bureau. Can I rent a flat without a credit check?There's no set credit score necessary to rent an apartment or house; the criteria for approval will vary depending on the property, location, landlord and other factors. However, knowing your credit score before you start apartment-hunting can help you zero in on properties you may qualify to rent.
Can I get an apartment with a 500 credit score?In short, yes! A credit score of 500 is low, but it's not insurmountable. It would be best if you planned some extra time for your apartment hunt with scores this low, but you can still rent an apartment.
How can I get a tenant with bad credit?Ask For A Guarantor
A guarantor will be able to cover any costs if the tenant is unable to pay, giving you extra protection. The guarantor will need to sign the tenancy agreement along with the tenant and have secure financial status.
How can I get a flat with bad credit and no guarantor?How to rent with bad credit and no guarantor: What steps to take. Check your credit report.. Clear outstanding debts.. Ask your current/previous landlord for a good reference.. Offer a larger deposit (if possible). Find yourself a housemate.. Review your online presence.. Have an honest conversation upfront.. |