How to Get a Second Chance
Second Chance Apartments are willing to provide housing to individuals that have bad credit history or poor leasing records. Potential landlords connect with previous landlords to determine the type of tenant you are, and they are hesitant to rent to anyone that shows a history of bad rental problems. They view leasing to you as a risk. Landlords that offer Second Chance leasing are willing to take that chance, however it's going to cost. Implementing professional credit repair services can help mitigate this risk over time.
Reasons for Needing Second Chance Leasing
You’re a possible candidate for second chance leasing if your rental history consists of one or more of the following:
- You constantly fail to pay rent on time.
- You broke a lease with no suitable purpose.
- You owe back rent.
- You moved out without a notice.
- You’ve been evicted.
Having any of these issues on your apartment rental history can make searching for a new apartment difficult. Even if you decide to move to another state, your rental history will follow you. The first step to improving your situation would be to resolve issues with past landlords. While working on your credit history, second chance leasing is a good way to rent until your rental history has improved and been updated.
General Requirements For Second Chance Leasing
Fortunately, there are landlords that are willing to give you a second chance but they have certain requirements. They may want documented and written proof that you are resolving past financial issues. You may have to pay a high security deposit to ensure that the landlord is covered. This is a standard high-risk tenant solution in the industry.
Benefits of Second Chance Housing
- The obvious benefit is that you have shelter. Second chance leasing will give you a nice and affordable place to live.
- It gives you the opportunity to re-establish yourself as a good tenant for other apartment rentals in the future.
- It gives you the opportunity to focus on repairing your credit score and rental history.
Tips for Meeting with a Second Chance Landlord
- Your appearance is always your first impression. Be sure to dress appropriately.
- Be courteous, polite and attentive when the landlord is going over leasing information.
- If you are in the process of repairing credit, submit copies of updated credit reports.
- Ask questions to get a thorough understanding of what the landlord requires.
- Don't hesitate to pay a higher initial deposit to move in.
- Submit copies of references.