We’ve all been there… You want to find a new home to rent, but you’re worried about your credit. How will these credit cards and late payments affect your ability to get that home you’ve always wanted? Luckily, there are various ways to make your dreams a reality. These five steps should benefit anyone wishing to rent a house with less-than-perfect credit.

Get one or multiple roommates.

One of the easiest ways to get a new home that seems just a bit out of reach is to obtain one or more roommates. This not only gives a little security to the landlord because multiple people are working to pay the rent, but it could also help with the cost of utilities and other things associated with renting a home in certain areas. Ensure that the roommates you’ve chosen have the same ability to pay and show responsibility as you do, or else you may be in for more headaches.

Pay extra in advance.

One of the most effective ways to get the attention of a potential landlord and show you are serious is to offer to pay a little extra in advance. Some people will offer upwards of three months of rent in advance and a security deposit. This will help persuade a landlord that your credit score and history don’t make the final determination.

Show proof of solid income.

Just because you haven’t had time to fix all the blemishes on your credit report doesn’t exactly mean you can’t show that you’re a hard worker. Landlords love to see that their potential tenants have long-standing, good jobs that ensure the bills always get paid. Don’t be modest; ensure your landlord has all the information they need to determine your ability to pay the monthly rent.

Compromise rent payment amount

If you know that your credit isn’t a very good place to rent a house, you can change a landlord’s mind by showing your good faith through a monetary gesture. Offering to pay a little more each month in rent and spending more on the security deposit may show a potential landlord that you are serious and can handle the responsibility of your new dream home.

Recommendations

Have you previously rented a home or apartment? Like a job resume, recommendations (or references) are a great way to spread the word about your amazing rental history. Have your old landlord or rental company write you a letter explaining how great a tenant you have been. This may go a long way to show a potential landlord that you are worth the risk, even if you have less-than-perfect credit.

Ultimately, what matters most is that a landlord knows you as a potential renter/tenant are a good investment. Will you destroy the property? Will you pay your rent on time? Will you be more of an issue than you are worth? These are all questions that credit/background checks usually help landlords/property owners determine. However, using the five steps outlined above, you can raise your chances of getting the home of your dreams even if your credit isn’t perfect. For more information, contact us or check out our available rental listings today!