Eviction can be a scary process, and sometimes an eviction happens when you have no other options. It can feel incredibly overwhelming to try and find somewhere to rent again once you have experienced an eviction, and having an eviction on your personal record can lead to additional problems securing financing and leasing agreements.
Our article gives you details on how to rent a house after an eviction in addition to guidance on why eviction doesn’t need to be the end of your rental history.
Why an Eviction Can Cause Rental Panic
Eviction can be difficult to navigate, and the process of dealing with an eviction often involves court appearances, fees, penalties, and the loss of your living space. In some cases, an eviction is an unavoidable occurrence due to life circumstances, and experiencing an eviction can cause some individuals to panic and start worrying about where to live.
Evictions do stay on your rental record for up to seven years, and it is important to understand how to navigate your rental options after an eviction to avoid some of the panic and worry that often sets in after the eviction process has been completed.
How to Find a Rental Home After an Eviction
While many individuals may not think that it’s possible to rent a home again after experiencing an eviction, this is a common misconception. You can rent again after an eviction, though the process of finding a suitable place can be lengthier and require additional research into your options.
We give you steps below that can help you find an appropriate rental home after an eviction.
Make Amends When Possible
Sometimes, your landlord may notify you about an eviction as they are starting the court process for official eviction. You may be able to work with your landlord or the courts to pay off any outstanding fees, rental balances, or penalties and fines. In exchange, your landlord or the courts may drop the official rental charges, stopping this from going on your record.
It is important to note that this option might not be possible in all circumstances, but the best thing you can do when facing an eviction is try to work with your current landlord and make amends when possible.
Work On Your Credit
After an eviction, it’s very likely that your credit score will suffer, and your personal record will be affected by the eviction ruling against you. It can take ages to bring your credit back up to a suitable point that makes you eligible for financing, rental agreements, and loans, which is why it is imperative to work on your credit as soon as possible after an eviction. It’s a good idea to use a free people finder tool to see what information like this shows up about you.
Monitor your credit score regularly, use credit cards wisely, and pay off any loans or credit balances when possible to start boosting your score back up to a high point. You may also want to refrain from financing additional items or opening new credit cards during the initial period of time after your eviction, as this can result in further hits to your credit score.
Find an Independent Landlord
While many landlords will pass over individuals who have an eviction on their record, other landlords, particularly independent landlords, can be more understanding. You can search for local homes for rent and speak with the landlord directly, being positive and honest about your situation.
You may be able to secure a home to rent even with an eviction on your record if you work with the right landlord, utilize a co-signer, or sign a lease with additional addendums that ensure payments are received on time.
Collect Positive References
Positive references can go a long way when it comes to finding a new home to rent after an eviction. By collecting positive references from friends, family, and professional contacts, you can reassure any landlord you work with that you are able to pay for your rental and that the eviction you experienced was simply a small speed bump on your rental record.
You may also need to show your new potential landlord proof of income, employment, or other essential documents that attest to your efforts in rebuilding your credit and rental reputation.
Be Honest About Your Situation
Being honest about your situation is generally considered vital after an eviction – landlords and rental agencies are going to see your record anyway if they run a background check. Lying or trying to deceive someone about your previous eviction can only make the situation worse.
Make sure to be upfront when speaking with landlords, provide evidence that you are trying to rebuild your credit and rental history, and show that you are dedicated to stopping another eviction from occurring to earn the trust of a potential landlord and secure a new place to rent.
Finding a Rental for Your Needs
Renting a home after an eviction might not be the easiest task to do, but it is possible.
In order to improve your chances of finding a rental that meets your needs, you will need to take the time to evaluate your personal record and start making steps towards improving your credit history, finding an understanding landlord, and collecting references to show that you are a good candidate for renting a home in your area despite the eviction on your record.