Apartments That Accept Felons In Omaha – NEBRASKA

Apartments That Accept Felons In Omaha

Apartments that rent to felons in Omaha, NE can be a little bit stressful, because of the person’s felony convictions. However, in Omaha, Nebraska, several apartments cater specifically to individuals with criminal backgrounds. These apartments understand the challenges and barriers faced by felons and strive to provide a stable and supportive living environment. Finding suitable housing is a crucial aspect of reintegration into society. A secure and affordable place to live can provide a sense of stability and a foundation for rebuilding a life. Apartments that accept felons in Omaha offer a lifeline to individuals who may have struggled to find housing due to their past.

These apartments typically have flexible screening criteria that consider factors beyond criminal history, such as income, employment, and references. They prioritize providing a second chance and empowering individuals to move forward with their lives. By offering housing options to felons, these apartments play a vital role in reducing recidivism and fostering community safety

Apartments That Accept Felons In Omaha – NEBRASKA

In Omaha, Nebraska, some apartments are rented to felons. These apartments provide housing for individuals who have been convicted of a felony, and who may have difficulty finding housing elsewhere. The apartments typically have strict screening criteria and may require a background check and proof of income. However, they offer a safe and affordable place to live for those who have struggled to find housing.

One of the most important things to consider when looking for an apartment that accepts felons is the location. The apartment should be located in a safe neighborhood and should be close to public transportation and other amenities. It is also important to make sure that the apartment is affordable, and that the rent is within your budget.

Another important factor to consider is the landlord. The landlord should be understanding and supportive and should be willing to work with you to help you get back on your feet. It is also important to make sure that the landlord is familiar with the Fair Housing Act, and that they will not discriminate against you based on your criminal history.

If you are looking for an apartment in Omaha, some resources are available to help you. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services offers a list of apartments that accept felons and can provide you with information on how to apply for housing. You can also contact the Omaha Housing Authority, which offers a variety of housing programs for low-income individuals and families.

Statistics On Housing Access For Felons In Nebraska

In Nebraska, felons face significant barriers to housing access. According to the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, approximately 25,000 individuals are released from prison each year, and a large proportion of these individuals struggle to find stable housing.

Statistics On Housing Discrimination

  • A 2018 study by the Urban Institute found that felons in Nebraska are 3.5 times more likely to experience housing discrimination than non-felons.
  • The study also found that felons are more likely to be denied housing applications, charged higher rents, and placed on waiting lists for housing.

Consequences Of Housing Discrimination

Housing discrimination has severe consequences for felons, including:

  • Increased risk of homelessness and recidivism
  • Difficulty obtaining employment and education
  • Limited access to healthcare and other essential services
  • Social isolation and stigma

Policy Recommendations

To address the issue of housing discrimination against felons, Nebraska has enacted several policies, including:

Fair Chance Housing Act (2018): 

Prohibits landlords from considering criminal history during the initial application process.

Second Chance Housing Fund (2021):

Provides financial assistance to felons who are seeking housing.

However, advocates argue that more needs to be done to ensure that people have equal access to housing. Recommendations include:

  • Expanding the Fair Chance Housing Act to cover all aspects of the housing process, including background checks and lease signing.
  • Increasing funding for Second Chance Housing Fund.
  • Providing housing counseling and rental assistance specifically for felons.
  • Advocating for reducing the stigma associated with criminal history. 

Housing Barriers For Felons

Felons face significant challenges in securing stable and affordable housing upon reentry into society. A multitude of factors contribute to these barriers, including:

Legal Restrictions:

Many states and localities impose restrictions on housing for felons. These restrictions may include bans on renting or purchasing housing in certain areas or requirements for landlords to disclose a tenant’s criminal history. Such laws perpetuate stigma and discrimination, making it difficult for felons to find suitable housing.

Landlord Bias:

Landlords often hold negative stereotypes about felons, leading to reluctance to rent to them. Even if a felon has completed their sentence and demonstrated rehabilitation, they may be denied housing based solely on their criminal record. This bias stems from fears about safety, property damage, or legal liability.

Financial Obstacles:

Felons often face financial difficulties due to unemployment, low wages, or poor credit. They may have difficulty affording rent or mortgage payments, making it challenging to secure and maintain housing. Limited access to financial assistance programs further exacerbates these challenges.

Homelessness And Recidivism:

The lack of affordable housing for felons can lead to homelessness. This, in turn, increases the risk of recidivism, as individuals without stable housing are more likely to engage in criminal activity to meet their basic needs. Homelessness also has detrimental effects on physical and mental health.

Reintegration And Social Support:

Stable housing is crucial for successful reintegration into society. It provides a foundation for employment, education, and other opportunities that can help felons rebuild their lives. Without access to housing, felons face significant obstacles in overcoming the challenges of re-entry and reducing their risk of returning to crime. 

Safe And Budget-Friendly Rental Cities In Nebraska

Nebraska offers a variety of safe and affordable rental options for those seeking a comfortable and cost-effective living environment. Several cities in the state stand out for their low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and accessible housing costs.

Lincoln:

Nebraska’s capital city boasts a vibrant downtown, excellent schools, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Lincoln consistently ranks among the safest cities in the US and offers a wide range of rental options at reasonable prices.

Omaha:

The largest city in Nebraska, Omaha provides a diverse and welcoming atmosphere. It has a strong job market, a growing tech industry, and numerous parks and recreational areas. Omaha also offers affordable housing options, particularly in the suburbs.

Norfolk:

Located in northeast Nebraska, Norfolk is a growing community with a strong sense of community. It has a low crime rate, excellent healthcare facilities, and a variety of housing options, including affordable single-family homes and apartments.

Grand Island:

Situated in central Nebraska, Grand Island is a family-oriented city with a thriving economy. It has a low crime rate, a highly rated school district, and affordable rental prices for apartments and townhomes.

Hastings:

Located in south-central Nebraska, Hastings is a quaint and historic city. It offers a safe and friendly environment, a vibrant downtown, and affordable rental options, particularly for families looking for single-family homes.

What To Expect During The Apartment Application Process In Nebraska

Once you’ve found an apartment you’re interested in, the next step is to apply. The application process can vary from landlord to landlord, but there are some general things you can expect.

The Application Fee

Most landlords charge an application fee, which typically ranges from $25 to $50. This fee covers the cost of processing your application, including running a credit check and verifying your income.

The Application Form

The application form will ask for basic information about yourself, such as your name, address, and contact information. You’ll also be asked about your income, employment history, and rental history.

The Credit Check

The landlord will run a credit check on you to assess your creditworthiness. A good credit score will increase your chances of being approved for the apartment.

The Income Verification

The landlord will also verify your income to make sure that you can afford the rent. You’ll need to provide proof of income, such as a pay stub or a bank statement.

The Reference Check

The landlord may also contact your previous landlords to get references. These references can provide the landlord with information about your rental history, such as whether you paid your rent on time and kept the property in good condition.

The Approval Process

Once the landlord has processed your application, they will decide whether to approve or deny your application. If you’re approved, you’ll be asked to sign a lease agreement.

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Finding Stability And Rebuilding A Future

For individuals with a felony record, securing an apartment in Omaha can be a significant milestone towards rebuilding their lives. Obtaining housing provides a stable foundation from which to address other challenges and pursue opportunities. It offers a sense of privacy, security, and a place to call home.

Accessing Support Services

Many organizations in Omaha offer support services to individuals with criminal records who are transitioning into housing. These services may include employment assistance, counseling, substance abuse treatment, and financial aid. By utilizing these resources, felons can overcome barriers and improve their chances of success.

Building Positive Relationships

Establishing positive relationships with neighbors, landlords, and community members is crucial for felons moving into an apartment. By demonstrating responsibility, respect, and a willingness to contribute to the community, they can break down stereotypes and build trust.

Pursuing Education And Employment

With a stable living situation, felons can focus on pursuing education and employment opportunities. Omaha offers various programs and resources to help individuals with criminal records obtain job training, higher education, and employment. By acquiring new skills and qualifications, they can increase their earning potential and secure a brighter future.

Overcoming Stigma And Discrimination

Felons may face stigma and discrimination in the housing market and other areas of life. It is important for them to be aware of their rights and to seek support from advocacy organizations and legal aid services. By challenging discrimination and promoting understanding, they can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

About the Author

Clyde
Clyde Bradley is an author, publisher, and co-founder of Yard Felons. He has been through the ups and downs of getting housing/apartments as someone with a record. Clyde didn't let his past and the stigma hold him down but scaled through with determination. And has decided to help others go through the process of getting housing.