🏠 Housing Helper

Your guide to finding housing with barriers

RentWell-Friendly Listings Flexible Screening Properties No Response Yet Housing Search Tips & Tricks

🤝 Less Strict Criteria Properties

These properties have more flexible requirements for credit, income, or background checks.

🏘️ Individual Landlords

• Often more flexible than large property management companies
• May accept co-signers or larger security deposits
• Look for "For Rent by Owner" signs in neighborhoods
• Check Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Zillow rentals

💰 Income-Based Housing

• Public housing authorities (Section 8, Housing Choice Vouchers)
• LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) properties
• Nonprofit housing organizations
• Some require 30% of income regardless of credit score

🔄 Second-Chance Housing

• Transitional housing programs
• Sober living facilities
• Reentry housing programs
• Faith-based housing assistance

💡 Pro Tip

When contacting these properties, be upfront about your situation and emphasize your commitment to being a good tenant. Mention any positive changes you've made.

📧 When They Don't Respond

Don't take it personally! Here's what to do when landlords don't respond to your emails.

Why They Might Not Respond

• Already rented the unit
• Overwhelmed with applications
• Your email went to spam
• They're screening based on email content
• They prefer phone calls

What You Can Do

• Try calling instead of emailing
• Send a follow-up email after 2-3 days
• Show up in person (if appropriate)
• Ask friends to help you look
• Keep applying to other places

Sample Follow-Up Email

Subject: Following up on [Property Address]

Hi [Landlord Name],

I emailed a few days ago about the rental at [address]. I'm very interested and would love to schedule a viewing.

I'm a reliable tenant with references available. Please let me know if the unit is still available.

Thank you,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone]

Keep Your Spirits Up! 💪

Housing hunting is tough for everyone. Each "no" or non-response gets you closer to the right "yes." Don't give up!

💡 Tips & Tricks

Insider knowledge to help you stand out and find housing faster.

📝 Application Tips

• Apply within 24 hours of seeing a listing
• Have all documents ready to go
• Write a brief cover letter about yourself
• Offer to pay first month + deposit upfront
• Get references from employers, previous landlords

🤝 Building Relationships

• Be professional but personable
• Show up on time for viewings
• Ask thoughtful questions about the property
• Follow up with thank you messages
• Be honest about your situation

📱 Best Times to Search

• Check listings early morning (7-9 AM)
• New posts often appear on weekends
• End of month = more availability
• Winter months have less competition
• Set up alerts on rental websites

💰 Financial Preparation

• Save 3x monthly rent (first, last, deposit)
• Get bank statements printed
• Consider a co-signer if needed
• Look into rental assistance programs
• Have proof of income ready

🌟 The Golden Rule

Treat every interaction like a job interview. You're not just looking for housing - you're showing landlords why you'd be their best tenant!

🔍 Places to Look for Housing

Cast a wide net! Here are all the places you should be checking regularly.

🌐 Online Platforms

• Craigslist (check daily!)
• Facebook Marketplace
• Zillow Rentals
• Apartments.com
• Rent.com
• PadMapper
• HotPads
• Trulia

👥 Social Networks

• Facebook housing groups
• Nextdoor app
• Local community boards
• Church bulletin boards
• College housing boards
• Word of mouth
• Ask friends & family
• Coworkers

🏢 Direct Sources

• Property management websites
• Drive around neighborhoods
• "For Rent" signs
• Real estate offices
• Housing authorities
• Nonprofit organizations
• Local newspapers
• Community centers

📱 Mobile Apps to Download

Zillow

Apartments.com

PadMapper

HotPads

Facebook

Nextdoor

⚠️ Scam Warning Signs

• Asking for money before viewing
• Prices way below market rate
• Poor grammar in listings
• Won't talk on the phone
• Asks for personal info upfront
• "Landlord" is out of town

📍 Find RentWell Classes Near You

RentWell classes help you become a more competitive renter. Find a class in your area!

Interactive Map

Classes will appear here based on your search

Downtown Community Center

In-Person

📍 123 Main St, Downtown

Next class: Saturday, Dec 16 at 10:00 AM

Free Certificate Provided

Virtual RentWell Class

Online

💻 Zoom Meeting

Next class: Tuesday, Dec 19 at 6:00 PM

Free Certificate Provided Evening Class

Eastside Library

In-Person

📍 456 Oak Ave, Eastside

Next class: Thursday, Dec 21 at 2:00 PM

Free Certificate Provided Afternoon

Westside Community College

In-Person

📍 789 Pine St, Westside

Next class: Monday, Dec 25 at 9:00 AM

Free Certificate Provided Spanish Available

What You'll Learn in RentWell

• How to be a successful tenant
• Understanding your rights and responsibilities
• How to communicate effectively with landlords
• Budgeting and financial planning for housing
• How to maintain your rental property