How to rent an apartment even if you don’t have credit

If you’re looking to rent an apartment (or house) but you have no credit or bad credit, here are some tried-and-true strategies.

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If you haven’t established credit yet, say so. If you have credit problems, say so. Have a conversation with the landlord before you apply to gauge their flexibility and forewarn them of red flags in your credit history.

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Finding a roommate with good credit can help make the deal go through. A landlord may accept using their name alone on the lease (assuming the roommate is OK with taking full responsibility for rental payments).

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Look for Sublets and Shares

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A cosigner is someone who promises the landlord to cover your rent if you cannot pay — usually a good friend or family member with great credit. Cosigners may or may not live in the apartment.

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Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free quiz matches you with fiduciary financial advisors in your area or who serve your area. If you are ready to be matched with financial advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, take the quiz now.

How to rent an apartment even if you don’t have credit

If you’re looking to rent an apartment (or house) but you have no credit or bad credit, here are some tried-and-true strategies.

If you haven’t established credit yet, say so. If you have credit problems, say so. Have a conversation with the landlord before you apply to gauge their flexibility and forewarn them of red flags in your credit history.

Be Honest

Finding a roommate with good credit can help make the deal go through. A landlord may accept using their name alone on the lease (assuming the roommate is OK with taking full responsibility for rental payments).

Get a Roommate

Look for Sublets and Shares

Sometimes, a leaseholder will “sublet” their apartment while they pursue opportunities elsewhere. This allows them to return to their former home in the event they want to move back.

A cosigner is someone who promises the landlord to cover your rent if you cannot pay — usually a good friend or family member with great credit. Cosigners may or may not live in the apartment.

Find a Cosigner

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Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free quiz matches you with fiduciary financial advisors in your area or who serve your area. If you are ready to be matched with financial advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, take the quiz now.

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