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How To Rent with an Eviction on Your Record

Having an eviction on your record can feel like a big obstacle. The stigma around evictions can make things even more complicated, leaving you unsure on where to move forward. But don’t worry—there are still ways to rent after one, even if it feels tough. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple steps next steps you can take toward finding your next home. Read below to learn more. 

Main Takeaways

  • Knowing exactly how to rent with an eviction on your record can seem daunting. However, there are tools at your disposal you can use to boost your chances. You could rebuild your rental history with short-term rentals, use honesty as the best policy with potential landlords, rent with a co-signer, and seek legal aid.

A door peeking open to the bright sunshine outsideStrategies to Rent with An Eviction on Your Record

If you’ve ever faced an eviction, you probably are wondering how to rent with an eviction on your record. Landlords and property managers in Philadelphia often use eviction histories to help determine if they should approve rental applications. They do this to ensure tenants are reliable and can pay rent.

Although such checks may be necessary for them, that doesn’t make it any less stressful for you. Let’s look at some steps you can take to make it easier:

Assess Your Current Situation

When finding how to rent with an eviction on your record, your first step should be assessing your current situation. Before you dive into your apartment search, you should get a full picture on where you currently stand.  

Start by looking at your finances—think about how much you’re making, how much you’ve saved up, and any debts you might have. This will help you figure out the range of rental rates you can realistically afford going forward.

Next, take a look at your credit report and eviction history, word by word. Are there any unpaid bills from your eviction? Or maybe other little details that could have a big impact? Knowing what’s going on with these can help you take action to improve your chances of approval.

Consider Short-Term Apartments (Month-to-Month Leases)

Renting a short-term apartment can be a solution for how to rent with an eviction on your record. Month-to-month leases require less of a time commitment for both parties, so the bar to entry tends to be less strict. To elaborate, landlords may not be as stringent about eviction histories, credit histories, and other criteria. 

This approach works in two ways: first and foremost, it will give you a place to live in the short term. At the same time, it will help you build a better rental history in the meantime. When you successfully complete a short-term lease, you can show future landlords that you can maintain a rental agreement and that you’re serious about being a reliable tenant.

Communicate With Prospective Landlords in The Application Process

If you want to go the traditional long-term tenancy route, it’s important to be upfront about your eviction situation. After all, everyone falls on hard times. If you explain the hardships that led to your eviction, your landlord could respond with empathy. In addition, being transparent from the start gives you control over your narrative. You can own what happened. You can demonstrate how it was part of your journey in becoming the responsible tenant you are today.

Moreover, it’s better for a landlord to hear what happened directly from you, in your own words, then from a cold, hard eviction report later. 

Hand wiping off chalk word PROBLEM on black chalkboard using rag. Work With Your Former Landlord to Clear Your Eviction Record

When dealing with the question of how to rent with an eviction on your record, another option is to work with your former landlord to clear the eviction from your record in the first place. For example, if you were evicted due to nonpayment of rent, you can approach your former landlord to pay off the outstanding debts. Or, you could have mediation services act as a go-between each party. This way, each party can communicate more effectively and respectfully.

Either way, after the dust settles, you can request that they assist in removing the eviction from your record. 

Rent With a Cosigner for Extra Security

Landlords may be hesitant to rent to someone with an eviction history because it signals they may struggle to pay the rent, maintain the property, or other issues. One way to assuage their fears is by giving them a backup in the form of a cosigner.

A cosigner, also known as a guarantor, is someone who agrees to take on your financial responsibilities if you can’t meet your rent payments. They ensure that the landlord gets paid, even if you’re unable to pay them for whatever reason. Essentially, they serve as a form of “insurance” for the landlord. With a cosigner, you can be in a stronger position to secure a rental.

Seek Legal Aid or Representation

Sometimes, you might find yourself with what is considered, in legalese, a wrongful eviction. In such a scenario, you could seek legal aid. Consider reaching out to tenant advocacy groups. They can help you assess if an eviction can be removed or provide legal grounds for expungement. Then, you can have a new, fresh start.

Avoiding Future Evictions

If you want to avoid getting evicted in the future, start by ensuring you understand the terms inside and out. When exactly is rent due? Are pets allowed? And are there noise restrictions? If something in the lease seems even slightly unclear, ask your landlord to explain it.

Also, make contingency plans in case something goes wrong, like a financial rainy day. This way, you’re not left scrambling for a solution at the last minute. 

In addition, communication is your best ally here. If you’re having trouble paying rent on time or need something fixed, keep them in the loop well ahead of time before the issue snowballs out of control. By being consistent and communicative, you can stay ahead of the curve. 

Woman in Pink Shoes and Sweats Unpacking Near Home Sweet Home Welcome Mat, some Moving Boxes, and a Plant.Find Your Ideal Rental with BMG

Knowing exactly how to rent with an eviction on your record can seem daunting. However, there are tools at your disposal you can use to boost your chances. You could rebuild your rental history with short-term rentals, use honesty as the best policy with potential landlords, rent with a co-signer, and seek legal aid.

At Bay Property Management Group, we understand that life’s seasons can unpredictable. That’s why we take all of a tenant’s qualifications into consideration during the application process, not just their eviction history. This way, all tenants can have an equal, fair chance at housing. 

Renting with us means working with a team that values fairness and transparency—and we have great listings to match. Look at our rentals to learn more today!