Having an eviction on your record can be a significant hurdle when trying to rent a new place. It can lead landlords to view you as a high-risk tenant, making the rental process more challenging. However, it’s important to remember that an eviction doesn’t make it impossible to find a new home. This blog post will provide you with practical tips on how to rent with an eviction on your record.
[Related: buy tradelines from us or read the “Resources” section below]
How to Rent with an Eviction on your Record
1. Understanding the Impact of an Eviction
An eviction can stay on your record for up to seven years, affecting your ability to rent during that time. It can appear on background checks, making it one of the first things a potential landlord might notice about your rental history.
2. Start with Honest Communication
When applying for rentals, honesty is the best policy. Try to explain the circumstances of your past eviction to potential landlords. A sincere explanation about your eviction and the steps you’ve taken since then can sometimes sway their decision.
3. Gather Solid References
References can be your strongest asset. Secure references from previous landlords, employers, or other credible sources who can vouch for your reliability and responsibility. These references can counterbalance the negative impact of your eviction record.
4. Show Financial Stability
Demonstrate your financial stability to potential landlords. This can be through showing a steady income, a stable job, or a significant amount in savings. Offering to pay a higher deposit can also act as a good faith gesture, showing that you are serious about maintaining your tenancy.
5. Consider a Co-Signer
If possible, find a co-signer with a strong credit history. A co-signer acts as a guarantor on your lease, providing landlords with an additional layer of security. This can significantly increase your chances of securing a rental.
6. Look for Individual Landlords
Individual landlords may be more flexible than large property management companies. They might be more willing to consider your personal circumstances and less likely to have a rigid screening process.
7. Work on Repairing Your Credit Score
A better credit score can make you a more attractive tenant. Take steps to repair your credit by paying bills on time, reducing debts, and checking your credit report for errors. Improved credit can show potential landlords that you are financially responsible.
8. Provide Evidence of Responsibility
If your eviction was due to a specific situation, like a job loss or medical emergency, provide evidence that the situation has been resolved. Showing that you have overcome past challenges can reassure landlords that you are a lower risk.
9. Seek Legal Advice if Needed
In some cases, you might want to seek legal advice to understand your rights and possibly expunge the eviction from your record, depending on the laws in your area.
10. Consider Short-Term or Alternative Housing Options
While rebuilding your rental history, you might have to consider short-term or alternative housing options like subletting or renting a room. This can provide you with the opportunity to build a positive rental history, making it easier to rent in the future.
11. Use Rental Platforms and Networking
Utilize online rental platforms and networking. Sometimes, personal connections can lead to rental opportunities that are more flexible about past evictions.
12. Be Prepared for Rejection
Be prepared for some rejections and don’t get discouraged. The right rental opportunity will come along, and each application is a step closer to securing your new home.
Conclusion
An eviction on your record undoubtedly makes the process of renting a new place more challenging, but it’s not an insurmountable obstacle. By being honest, gathering strong references, demonstrating financial stability, and considering various housing options, you can increase your chances of finding a new home. Remember, an eviction is a temporary setback, not a lifelong barrier. With the right approach, you can successfully navigate the rental market and secure a new place to call home.
Resources
The following is a list of resources to start learning about tradelines. We have a list of tradelines for sale, and a tradelines FAQ. Also various posts about tradelines, and a chart of tradeline prices from competitor sites. Finally, a contact form to ask further questions.
Please feel welcome to ask any questions below.
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