Can I rent a house with a 520 credit score? (2024)

Can I rent a house with a 520 credit score?

You should aim for a minimum credit score of at least 620 before you apply for a rental home. If you don't meet the credit criteria, a high income and proof of finances can show the landlord you're stable and can afford the rent.

In general, a landlord will look for a credit score that is at least “good,” which is generally in the range of 670 to 739.

However, a good rule of thumb is that most landlords look for a credit score of at least 600. Anything under 600 is considered bad credit, but don't worry – there are many ways to get around bad credit.

They don't set a minimum credit score requirement, but lenders might, and it's typically 620. When it comes to renting, the minimum credit score that most landlords will accept is the same as the VA loan — 620.

In general, landlords are unlikely to approve you with poor credit history, but might consider you if you can demonstrate current financial stability. The bottom line is that the score you need varies by location, but you're likely to get approved in most places if your score is at least 650.

Most landlords use FICO credit scores to determine if an applicant qualifies for an apartment. The typical categories for those scores are: Exceptional: 800 to 850. Very Good: 740 to 799.

Most landlords seek credit scores of 650 or higher as a sign of tenant responsibility. Applicants with scores below 600 may face additional hurdles in securing approval. Exact minimum thresholds vary widely depending on factors like the type of apartment, current occupancy rates, and the landlord's discretion.

Landlords generally prefer a minimum credit score of at least “good,” which is 670 to 739. A score at or above that range will make apartment applications easier. Still, even a “fair” (580 to 669) or “poor” (300 to 579) score won't necessarily put the kibosh on your rental hopes.

There is no hard line, although if your prospective landlord checks your credit score, they'll likely be most comfortable renting to you if your credit score is at least 670.

Can a landlord refuse based on credit score?

The bottom line is that California landlords are legally free to reject applicants for legitimate business reasons, such as: a bad credit history. negative references from previous landlords or employers.

Explain Why You Have Bad Credit to the Rental Property

Landlords are more interested in your recent history, so if your low score is the result of something that happened years prior be sure to discuss that and share what you've been doing to improve your score and fulfill your responsibilities since then.

If an applicant doesn't have an ideal credit score, landlords have options and can still rent to them. Landlords can ask applicants to provide context about their low score, have a guarantor for the lease, show proof of income, pay a larger security deposit, and have a shorter lease term.

Generally, most landlords require applicants to have a credit score of at least 620 to be considered for rental housing. This means that if your FICO score is lower than 620, you may be denied an application or asked for additional security deposits or co-signers before being approved.

Credit-scoring company FICO® says that a score above 670 is a positive indicator. And that anything below might make your landlord “take a closer look at your credit details.” Tenant background checks might also be referred to as resident screening reports or tenant screening reports.

If you have a credit score that's below 620, you will find it more difficult to rent an apartment. You can work around the situation by renting with a smaller landlord, finding a cosigner or guarantor for your rental payments, or getting a roommate.

There may be ways to build your credit fast if your score is lower than you'd like. Depending on what's holding it down, you may be able to tack on as many as 100 points relatively quickly. Scores in the "fair" and "bad" areas of the credit score ranges could see dramatic results.

"Paying rent can build credit if your payments are reported," says Rod Griffin, senior director of consumer education and advocacy for the credit bureau Experian. "Unfortunately, that's not the norm, as most landlord and rent management companies don't report rent payments."

Just like the FICO score, the Vantage score is used to determine the person's ability to repay their debts on time. More lenders and landlords are relying on the Vantage score instead of, or in addition to, the FICO score. These scores also range from 300 to 850.

Yes, renting an apartment with a 500 or below credit score is possible. However, you might not get the apartment of your dreams until that score improves. Fortunately, you can still get a decent apartment if you provide strong proof of income, get a co-signer, or rent on a month-to-month basis.

What is too low credit score for apartment?

To help overcome a bad credit score and build trust, consider offering to pay two or more months' rent in advance or offer a larger security deposit. Paying more in advance will also put you ahead of the rental schedule and potentially act as a buffer if you have trouble paying rent one month in the future.

Information included in a landlord credit check includes payment history, the existence of a bankruptcy or accounts in collections, debts currently owed and more. Landlords also consider other information when approving tenants for a rental, including current income and history of employment.

There is no minimum credit score to rent an apartment.

Most individuals or companies renting an apartment want credit scores from applicants to be 620 or higher. People with credit scores lower than 620 may indicate they are a high risk renter.