Having a negative credit history makes it difficult to find a place to rent. If you have a low credit score or negative payment history, here are some things you can do to improve your situation:
Improve your credit score.
Pay all of your bills on time. If you get behind, make payments to get them current. If you have past debts that are unpaid, pay them off. If you are in danger of missing payments, contact the company and explain your situation. They may not waive penalties (e.g. late fees), but if you were a good customer to this point they may work with you to accept a smaller payment without negatively affecting your credit score.
What does the rental property require for a credit score or payment history?
Ask the rental property what credit scores and payment histories they will accept. If your credit is lower, ask what solutions they will consider
Some common solutions include:
If your credit score or payment history does not meet the property's criteria and they are not willing to accept any solutions, do not pay an application fee. Keep looking for a rental property that will work with your credit background.
