Can You Rent an Apartment With Bad Credit?

The apartment rental process is tougher than ever. People tell horror stories about long lines at open houses and shady real estate agents, and that's on top of how high rent prices are getting all across the United States.

So can you even rent an apartment with bad credit?

The answer: yes, but you may struggle getting approved for competitive apartments, and not all landlords will accept your application.

The average landlord or property management company does a credit check and is looking for applicants with good credit. While some apartments may accept your application with bad credit, it's important to get your credit score as high as you can to maximize your chances of getting accepted. Let's jump in!

Can you rent an apartment with bad credit?

Yes, you can rent an apartment with bad credit, but you'll likely be restricted to less ideal and less competitive apartments.

But even in more competitive situations, landlords may accept an application with bad credit if you have strong income, good rental history, or you agree to a higher security deposit, among other things.

Tips for renting with bad credit

1. Be honest about your credit history

Honesty is always the best policy, especially when it comes to renting with poor credit or a less than awesome credit report. Be upfront about your credit history with any potential landlords so they are not surprised by what they see on your credit report.

2. Consider a guarantor or co-signer

Your landlord will still want to know how they will get paid if you can't make your monthly rent. If a renter or applicant has a bad credit history or credit issues, most landlords request that they get a guarantor before lease signing.

If you have a friend or family member with good credit, they might be able to co-sign the lease for you as well. Essentially, a co-signer will be on your lease agreement and agrees to take responsibility for the rent payments if you are unable to pay.

3. Provide proof of income, reference letters, or other documents

Provide supporting documents whenever you can. Showing steady income is always important, so including pay stubs, bank statements, and letters of employment to a potential landlord help show you can pay your monthly rent.

4. Look for landlords who are flexible

Not all landlords or property management companies will do credit checks or look for the same things when trying to fill a rental property.

Conclusion

Putting in a successful rental application and ultimately signing a lease with bad credit can be a challenge. But, by being proactive, honest, and resourceful, you can put yourself in the position to find a landlord who will work with you.

Whenever you rent an apartment and settle into a new place, you might want to think about improving your credit.

Some key tips are to pay your bills on time (avoiding late payments), keep your outstanding debts as low as possible, and check up on your credit regularly at the three major credit bureaus.

Also - once you're in your new place, our Rent Reporting tool lets you build credit just by paying your rent on time.