Start by checking what the landlord needs
Before you ask anyone, confirm exactly what the property requires. Some landlords want a cosigner with a minimum income or credit score. Others accept a cosigner from out of state, and some only accept local ones. Ask the leasing office for the written requirements so you know what you are asking someone to qualify for.
Who to ask
Most cosigners are people who know you well and trust you to pay. The best candidates generally have steady income, a solid credit history and a reason to want you housed.
- Parents or grandparents.
- Siblings, aunts, uncles or other relatives.
- A close friend with a long track record of knowing you.
- A mentor or employer, though this is less common.
How to ask well
Be direct about what you are asking. Explain that cosigning means they may be responsible for the rent if you cannot pay, and that it can affect their credit. Do not minimize it. Someone who understands the risk and still says yes is a better cosigner than someone who agreed without knowing.
Bring information. Show your income, your budget and your plan for paying rent. Offer to give them copies of the lease, to share payment confirmations each month and to tell them right away if you run into trouble.
What the cosigner will need to provide
Expect the property to screen the cosigner much as it screens you. That commonly means an application, identification, proof of income and permission to review their credit. Tell your cosigner this ahead of time so there are no surprises.
If you cannot find a cosigner
Many people have no one to ask, or have family who cannot cosign. That is common and it is workable. Some properties will take a larger deposit instead. Others review the whole application, including income and rental history, and approve without needing anyone else to sign.
Be cautious of online services that offer to supply a stranger as a cosigner for a fee. Make sure you understand what you are buying, what the property will actually accept and what you can get back if it does not work. Ask for the terms in writing.
A different route: partner properties
Done Deal Cosign helps Houston renters get approved at partner properties when they do not have a cosigner. We work with 121+ partner properties. A counselor reviews your income and rental history and points you to the properties where you have a real chance, so you are not paying application fees to find out. More than 10,000 Houstonians have been approved through us since 2014.
If you are not pre-approved within 7 days, the Initial Fee is refunded. Our general guideline is two or fewer rental issues, such as evictions, broken leases or unpaid landlord balances.
Protect the relationship
If someone does cosign for you, treat it as a commitment to them as well as to the landlord. Pay on time, keep them informed and ask before you renew or sign any changes. A missed payment can damage more than a credit score.
Frequently asked questions
Who can be my cosigner?
Usually a relative or close friend with steady income and good credit. The property sets the exact requirements.
Can a cosigner live in another state?
Sometimes. Policies vary by property, so ask the leasing office before you ask anyone.
What do I tell a possible cosigner?
Explain that they may be responsible for the rent if you cannot pay, that it can affect their credit and that the property will screen them.
What if nobody can cosign for me?
You still have options, such as a larger deposit or a property that reviews applications individually.
How many rental issues are too many?
Our general guideline is two or fewer, such as evictions, broken leases or unpaid landlord balances. Call us for an individual review if you have more.
How long does approval take?
You complete the qualifying forms first. If you are not pre-approved within 7 days, the Initial Fee is refunded.
Can I speak with someone?
Yes. Call 713-992-3000 or visit 4600 Hwy 6 N #102, Houston. Bilingual staff are available.