Why an old apartment balance gets you denied
When you move out, a former property can charge you for unpaid rent, early termination, cleaning or damages. If the balance isn't paid, it may be sent to a collection agency. Apartment screening systems look specifically for money owed to previous landlords, and many deny automatically when they find it.
A lot of renters only find out about the balance when an application comes back denied.
Do you have to pay it off first?
Not always. Paying off a balance or getting a paid-in-full letter can help, but you do not need to resolve it before you talk to us. Some Partner Properties will consider you with an open balance, especially if it is your only rental issue and your income is steady now.
How we help if you owe a former landlord
Done Deal Cosign has helped Houston renters since 2014, and more than 10,000 people have been approved through us. A Counselor reviews your history, including the balance, and matches you with Partner Properties that consider renters in your situation. We back your application with the property.
You complete the qualifying forms first. If you are not pre-approved within 7 days, the Initial Fee is refunded. You then choose your apartment from our 96 Partner Properties.
- Tell us about the balance: roughly how much, from when and whether it went to collections.
- Bring any payment receipts or paid-in-full letters you have. We use them to show the full story.
- Get matched with Partner Properties, get your pre-approval decision, then pick your apartment.
When there is more than one issue
An unpaid balance often comes with a broken lease or an eviction from the same property. Our general guideline is two or fewer rental issues, and each case is reviewed individually, so call even if your history feels complicated.
What it costs
We charge an Initial Fee and a Lease Assurance Fee. The amounts depend on your rental history and the Partner Property's rates, and we explain both before you commit.
From our blog: Houston Apartment Vacancies Are Up. Here's Why That Helps Second Chance Renters · Harris County Eviction Filings by Neighborhood: What the New Data Means for Renters
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent an apartment if I owe another apartment money?
Often, yes. Some Partner Properties consider renters with an unpaid landlord balance, especially when it is the only rental issue.
Does a balance in collections count as a rental issue?
Yes. An unpaid landlord balance counts as one rental issue. Our general guideline is two or fewer, reviewed case by case.
Should I pay it off before applying?
It can help, but you do not need to pay it off before you talk to us. A Counselor will tell you how it affects your options.
What if the balance is wrong?
Tell your Counselor. Bring any move-out paperwork or receipts you have, and we will take it into account when we match you.
What does it cost?
An Initial Fee and a Lease Assurance Fee, based on your history and the Partner Property's rates. If you are not pre-approved within 7 days, the Initial Fee is refunded.