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When landlords screen would-be tenants, they look for financial reliability and safety around their property and other tenants. To be financially reliable, the tenant applicant must prove they’re financially stable and manage their income well. Safety considerations involve proving character through effective communication, proactive effort, and reliable references.

This guide explores the 12 circumstances that can disqualify you from renting an apartment. We’ll explore why landlords may reject an application based on these factors and provide actionable steps to address and remedy each situation.

4 Factors to What Can Disqualify You From Renting an Apartment

Being transparent about any of these factors is crucial during the application process. Failure to disclose significant details to the landlord may lead to complications and potential eviction later on.

#1 Your Income is Not Enough for Rent

According to the Office of Policy Development and Research, US housing costs must be 30% below income to afford housing. For instance, the average monthly rent is $1, 377 in Spokane, Washington. Therefore, applicants are generally expected to earn at least $4, 590 monthly to afford rental expenses comfortably.

The landlord will ask for pay stubs, bank statements, and employer references to verify income. These documents help confirm whether the applicant has a steady and reliable income to meet rental obligations. Failure to demonstrate adequate income may result in the application being disqualified.

What to Do:

Make sure that your required income documents (pay stubs or bank statements) match the income listed in your application. Any discrepancies between the stated income and supporting documentation could result in automatic disqualification. 

Fabricating or inflating income information also risks potential legal consequences. It’s essential to accurately and honestly fill out the rental application to avoid such pitfalls.

#2 Poor Credit Score

Landlords assess applicants’ credit scores to measure their financial responsibility and management. A low credit score can signify a history of late payments or economic hardships, raising concerns if the applicant can meet rent obligations promptly.

A favorable FICO credit score typically falls around 670. FICO, or Fair Isaac Corporation, scores are widely used to evaluate creditworthiness based on credit history.

What to Do:

If your credit score is low, consider alternative arrangements to secure the rental. Options include offering a higher security deposit or rent upfront for several months. Doing so gives your landlord more cushion to fall back on if you default on your lease.

Another approach is to enlist a guarantor who commits to covering rent payments in the event of default. Guarantors can be trusted family members or third-party services. However, they typically need to meet higher income requirements than tenants.

Additionally, actively work on improving your credit score over time. Credit scores can be improved with on-time bill payments and maintaining low credit card balances. Consider exploring credit builder loans and rent reporting services. These services enable credit improvement without the risks of maxing out your credit card.

We also recommend contacting a second chance approval service company. This service refers to properties that accommodate credit issues.

#3 Your Debt-to-Income Ratio is Outside a Landlord’s Threshold

The ratio of your monthly debt payments to your monthly income is called debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. A high DTI suggests that most of your income goes to debt repayment. It signals potential financial instability and challenges in meeting rental obligations on time.

Landlords determine their DTI thresholds, guided by the Fair Housing Act. Their regulations prohibit them from setting disproportionately high thresholds that may discriminate against low-income renters.

According to the Motley Fool, an ideal DTI typically falls at or below 35%. If your DTI ranges between 36% and 49%, it may still be acceptable, but landlords may scrutinize additional factors to assess your suitability as a tenant.

What to Do:

You can lower your DTI ratio by taking care of smaller debts. Consider augmenting your income to facilitate higher debt repayments.

Negotiating reduced interest rates with creditors or obtaining a loan co-signer can also help alleviate financial strain and reduce one’s DTI ratio.

#4 Presence of Evictions in Rental History

A history of previous evictions can lower the chances of being approved as a tenant.

A landlord checks for eviction history by asking the applicant for their previous landlords’ contact information.

They can also check an applicant’s eviction history by checking their court records. Court records can be accessed by visiting the courthouse, their state’s website, or asking the courthouse for a mailed copy.

What to Do:

If you have a history of evictions, it’s advisable to be transparent with your landlord. Providing context, such as a job loss or medical emergency, can mitigate the negative perception associated with evictions.

Additionally, furnishing references from previous landlords, employers, or other reputable individuals can prove your reliability.

Offering increased financial security can remedy landlord concerns in cases where references are limited. Consider proposing a larger security deposit, advance rent payments, or securing a financially stable co-signer. You can also show your commitment to pay on time by having automatic payments.

Alternatively, explore second-chance leasing programs tailored for individuals with eviction histories to find a suitable apartment within the area.

Successful Apartment Renting Where You and Landlords Will Benefit

Applying for apartments can be exhausting but rewarding: you’ll have an apartment you can call home. There are reasons to what can disqualify you from renting an apartment. Still, with good references, assistive services, and actionable steps, you’re bound to find an apartment that meets your needs and preferences. Trust is a two-way street. Don’t forget that you can negotiate with your landlord where both of you would benefit when renting with them.

Ready to embark on your apartment search? Explore our range of apartments in Spokane, W,  to kickstart your journey towards finding your perfect home.

Goodale & Barbieri