We know that applying for homes can feel stressful, especially if you’ve been denied for a rental application. Receiving approval for a rental can be difficult because of many factors. But with the right info and support, your next application may be the lucky one.
Finding a rental property can be a daunting task, and you may find yourself wondering if you’ll ever succeed. Landlords and property managers have many reasons for denying applicants. Continue reading to learn common reasons for application denials and proactive strategies to improve your chances for future approval.
The Fair Housing Act ensures that potential tenants don’t receive denials because of their identity. Familial, marital, and Section 8 status also cannot impact housing rights. However, landlords still retain legal and valid reasons to deny a rental. You have the right to ask for clarification on your denial, but they do not have to provide their reasoning.
Understanding the potential reasons for application denial is important. This will help you be aware of what to expect. Reasons your application may be denied include:
Criminal history is not a dealbreaker for every property manager. However, many won’t rent to someone with a criminal record. Landlords and property managers will run background checks, and honesty is important.
Silly mistakes happen, but something as simple as not reading the fine print could cause an application denial. Be sure to double check every detail.
Your current income must be both adequate and verifiable. The American Apartment Owners’ Association suggests that rent not exceed 35% of a tenant’s gross monthly income. They also suggest that contracted debts, including rent, and not exceed 50% of a tenant’s gross monthly income. This debt-to-income ratio is often crucial.
Sometimes references don’t reflect your current situation, especially if you’ve gone through a tough season. Your rental and employer history both matter for applications. However, you can still strengthen your application in other ways.
Additional financial reasons for a rejection may include denied housing due to credit. The required credit score for renting an apartment or house is subjective, but poor credit is often a red flag for landlords. You will be much more likely to get approval for a rental with a credit score of 670 than with a score of 500.
Evictions, gaps in rental history, and late rent payments can all contribute to a rejection. Your rental history has quite a significant impact on potential landlords.
Occasionally, the reason for a denial is as simple as too much interest in one unit. If this happens to you, don’t give up; the right place will come along.
If you’re receiving continual rental application rejections, you can take proactive steps to improve your chances next time. Whether the reason is credit, employment, or another factor, these tips may help make housing more likely for you.
Additionally, if the landlords or property managers have explained their reasoning for rejecting your application, take those notes. Work on your credit, improve your debt-to-income ratio, or find better references.
At ARK Homes, we believe that finding a great place to live shouldn’t feel impossible. That’s why we keep our requirements clear and flexible—welcoming applicants with diverse backgrounds and financial journeys. Denied home loans or rental applications are discouraging, but just one step back on your journey to finding your perfect home.
If you’ve only been hitting roadblocks, ARK’s top-quality affordable rental homes may be right for you.
Our requirements are simple: a minimum FICO score over 500 and a combined gross income of at least 3 times the monthly rent.
However, those without FICO scores or who are self-employed are also welcome to apply. We require additional applicant information in these cases.
Review ARK’s qualification requirements here >>
ARK Homes for Rent leases budget-friendly single family homes backed by market wisdom. Renting with ARK will provide you with high quality rental homes, in the best locations for your family. We’ll help you find a new place to live that feels like home, where you and your family can settle, grow, and thrive.
Ready for a fresh start?
Explore ARK Homes and discover a place designed for real life and real people.
