What is the Best Way to Rent an Apartment With Bad Credit

If you have bad credit it can seem impossible to rent an apartment, but that’s not really the case. True, it is more difficult than if you had great credit, but it can be done. So, if you’re wondering what is the best way to rent an apartment with bad credit, read on. These tips will help you get the right apartment for you.

What is the Best Way to Rent an Apartment With Bad Credit

Before you start looking at apartments or filling out any rental application, take a look at these 9 tips to improve your chances of getting an apartment even if you have a poor credit score.

1. Apartments That Don’t Ask for a Credit Check

The easiest way to get around having bad credit and trying to get an apartment is to rent from someone who doesn’t ask for a credit check.

You’d be surprised, these apartments are out there.

I’ve rented from many of them myself.

The key is to stay away from the larger apartment complexes that have management companies and deal with a potential landlord that is also the owner.

Very often, if you make a good impression, they won’t even do a credit check.

I’ve had this happen both when renting apartments and houses.

Show up looking nice and dressed nicely and be polite and smile.

It all goes a long way and before you know it, you will have an apartment rented without a credit check.

2. Offer a Larger Security Deposit or More Money Upfront

If you’re concerned about your credit, be upfront with the property manager or landlord and tell them your credit isn’t the best, but then offer them something even better, more money.

Chances are your new property manager will expect a deposit.

Most security deposits are equal to one month’s rent.

Offer them two or even three months deposit.

This larger deposit will put you in a much better position.

You can also offer to pay rent in advance. Instead of paying just one month in advance, offer to pay the first three months or more in advance.

If you can afford to pay three month’s worth of monthly rent upfront, you will have a better chance of being accepted.

3. Use a Co-Signer

If you really have a bad credit history then consider asking someone to be a co-signer.

This is kind of like getting a co-signer on a car loan.

The co-signer will be responsible for paying the rent if you fail to do so.

Make sure your co-signer understands this and has the money to make these payments if you can’t.

4. Get References From Past Landlords

If you have a good rental history, then ask for a reference from your previous landlords.

It can go a long way when your previous landlord says you are a great tenant that always pays your rent on time.

I mean, just because you have bad credit doesn’t mean you don’t pay your rent, so let your past rental history speak louder than any old credit reports.

Letters of recommendation from as many landlords as you can get will really help your cause.

5. Get a Roommate

If you can’t get any reference letters and you don’t have extra money to hand over, consider getting a roommate.

I know it isn’t fun to live with someone else, but if it is the right person they may be able to sign the lease and then your credit won’t matter.

Just be sure to set up and agree to all the rules of the house before you move in.

6. Let Them Know Why You Will Be a Good Tenant

While this may not work with property management companies, it will with individual landlords.

Show them why you would be a great tenant.

Maybe you are handy or like to do yard work.

Or, perhaps you wouldn’t mind painting your apartment yourself.

At the very least, tell them that you are polite, quiet, and respectful.

Also, let them know that you will always follow all rules of the complex.