You can get housing with a misdemeanor on your record but it depends on the landlord’s preferences and property management policies. And on the nature of the misdemeanor, local laws, and regulations of the state. You can’t get a direct answer to this question or know for sure because of these factors.
The decision of the landlords and housing managers is largely regarded as renting to someone with a misdemeanor is solely dependent on their choice. Read on to discover ways and tips to apply to get an apartment despite a misdemeanor.
Can You Get Housing With A Misdemeanor On Your Record?
There is no rigid law when it comes to renting to someone with a misdemeanor. Though I’d advise anyone to research if there is a local law concerning landlords about such matters. HUD does not have a specific law regarding misdemeanors and housing denial. Please, note the following crimes may get you canceled from getting an apartment easily:
- Violent crimes that may involve murder
- Dealing methamphetamine in an apartment
- Sex offense (especially child molestation)
Things To Consider When Searching For A House With A Misdemeanor Record.
To get an apartment with a misdemeanor on your record you’ve to consider the following points.
Landlord’s Decision
Landlords have the total say or decision to rent to a person with a misdemeanor or not. Property management also considers whether the offense is recent or not. This can give you an edge after the rental application.
Property management and landlords conduct background checks that show your criminal history. What they see will influence their decision to let you have their apartment.
Local/State Laws
Some state or local laws regulate what an individual housing provider or apartment complex might consider during the rental process. In most places, a misdemeanor should not be a big problem when renting. But it depends on the nature of the misdemeanor. Most states have laws against certain discrimination. Whether a misdemeanor should be considered as discrimination has to do with these laws and landlords. Meaning, that a landlord may have limited ability to reject you because of a misdemeanor based on these laws.
Nature Of The Misdemeanor
The type of misdemeanor may influence the decision of the housing provider or owner. For instance, some people might not consider misdemeanors such as traffic violations, and shoplifting a big deal. But offenses like vandalism, and arson will raise the wrong flag. Everyone would want to avoid such on their properties especially if the offense is recent. The nature of the misdemeanor has to do with individual considerations of what one might consider a big no or yes when giving out housing.
Rental Application
When applying for an apartment don’t give out wrong information, especially about your criminal record if there is any. Don’t be too quick to spill the beans, unless you necessarily have to. Explain yourself and whatever misdemeanor there is at the appropriate time. A good explanation and a changed behavior might be what you just need to convince any landlords and agents.
How To Get An Apartment With A Misdemeanor On Your Record
As previously discussed, renting to you or denial is dependent on the landlord or property management. Follow these steps to get an apartment despite a misdemeanor on your record:
Private And Small Time Landlords
Small-time landlords will easily accept a person with a misdemeanor record. Most private property owners don’t care too much about background checks and misdemeanors. Some of them might be in a haste to rent out their properties. However, these landlords have the right to reject your rental application if they see fit. But your best bet is approaching a small or private property owner rather than a housing complex management.
Search Online Near Your Location
Put your location on websites that deal with apartments, real estate, and housing. And search for available apartments near you. There are many sites for that such as apartments.com and Zillow.com. You can also use search engines to get more.
Click here for more ways to get friendly apartments near you with ease.
Other to take tips include:
- Offer to pay a lil higher
- Promise to pay rental dues on time
- Show steps you’ve taken to ensure you live a crime free life
- Try a support group
- Try HUD (for those with low income) and check if you’re eligible
- Ask friends and family to help you search for an apartment
- Rent with someone. A shared apartment if possible
- Get a good credit
- Seek properties that work with second-chance programs
- Seek housing in suburban areas where rental prices are low
The demand for housing in some areas is high compared to others. If you tried once and were denied doesn’t mean you should quit. You will get a landlord that will accept you despite a misdemeanor on your record.
Conclusion
Getting an apartment with a misdemeanor on your record depends on the individual or owner of the property you want to rent. It is possible to get a house with a misdemeanor record with ease, while some might find it stressful. Private landlords are less mindful of misdemeanor offenses compared to a felony. The nature of the misdemeanor can greatly influence whether the landlord or property management will accept or deny you. Note, that the time since the offense counts too, to most property owners. When you get an apartment, landlords will expect you to:
- Show good behavior towards other tenants
- Pay your rent on time
- Keep the apartment in good condition
Failure to do these things will get you an eviction which will show up on your record.
