Finding affordable housing after you’ve been evicted may feel like an impossible task. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to increase your chances of being approved for renting after eviction. Let’s find out what they are.
Keep An Eye On Your Credit
First, the good news. The eviction itself does not show up on your credit reports. However, if the landlord sends any outstanding debt to a collection agency, those collection efforts will hit your credit report and are likely to cause your credit score to drop. Do your best to repay any remaining funds owed before the landlord sends your account to collections.
Be Honest About Your Situation
You may be asked about prior evictions on the rental application or in an in-person conversation. Either way, be honest and come clean about your recent eviction. Even though the eviction doesn’t show up on your credit report, it is a matter of public record and will show up on a tenant screening or background check.
Being truthful about your eviction gives you a chance to explain the circumstances and offer reasons it won’t happen again. Lying about it is all but guaranteed to sink your chances at renting with the prospective landlord.
Look for Independent Landlords
You may have better luck finding rental housing following eviction if you work with a locally based landlord, rather than trying to rent in a complex owned by a large national company. Most of those corporations have strict rules about renting to people immediately following an eviction.
A local landlord with fewer units to manage should be more willing to work with you; especially if you’re able to provide trusted local references.
Consider a Cosigner
Renting after eviction may be easier if you have someone willing to be a cosigner on the lease. This means that person would be responsible for paying the rent if you are unable to for any reason.
Asking someone to be a cosigner is a big decision and not one to take lightly. It should be someone you have an established, trusting relationship with. They should be financially stable and willing to help if you need it. But keep in mind they are doing you a huge favor, so you should do everything you can to ensure they don’t have to take over payments for you.
Be Open to Different Types of Housing
If renting a traditional apartment following eviction proves challenging, investigate other types of housing. Consider renting a townhome, guest house, half a duplex or renting a room in someone else’s home. You may also need to look into having roommates to share expenses.
Or investigate modern co-living spaces. These are complexes designed with small private rooms or suites for sleeping and privacy, along with larger shared living spaces and kitchen facilities with the aim of creating close-knit communities.
If you need further assistance finding rental housing after eviction, our Rental Counseling can help you determine how much you can afford each month and offer additional solutions and resources.
