Home Renting Made Simple: Part III - Credit reports and background checks

So, you put your application together, you've dotted your 'I's and crossed your 'T's. Yet, still as you read over this packet and check your work you wonder, 'what if they don't like my shoes, and deny me?'

Rest assured, a landlord or property management company will not be denying or accepting renter applications simply on the basis of fashion sense (though I'm sure yours is impeccable), instead, they tend to look at a few other specific things.

Some keep an eye out for good credit with no judgments, and everything up to date. Others rely more on you having an alright credit score with no judgments, all topped with a steady job and good references. When you fill out your application, keep in mind that Suzy from work might still be holding a grudge over that stapler you borrowed, as the fees you pay for your rental application are non-refundable.

So, maybe your credit isn't quite as pretty as you would like it to be, maybe it's time to look into credit repair. If your credit doesn't fit their policies, they can turn you down. Some will work with you, but in some such cases you must bring in three times the amount your rent is.

Still, be honest on your application, because the truth will come out. It is better to be told no and be out an application fee, then to be evicted and thrown out on your back end for fibbing here and there on your rental application.