How to Get an Apartment with No Rental History

Finding an apartment without a rental history is possible with solid references, steady finances, and other assets such as employment verification.

Not having a rental history is a common hurdle, especially for first-time renters. In this guide, we cover how to qualify for an apartment with no rental history and how to apply for and secure a lease.

What If I Have No Rental History?

If you’ve never rented before, landlords or rental companies might see you as “higher risk.” But not having a history of renting doesn’t mean you can’t get an apartment. To show your reliability, use proof of income, references, and other documents that highlight your ability to pay rent on time each month.

If you have no rental history, the goal is to replace the traditional rental history with alternative qualifications.

How Can You Qualify for an Apartment Without a Rental History?

Below are the top ten strategies to help you qualify for an apartment without a rental history.

1. List Reputable References

Use other credible references if you’ve never had a landlord. Ask your professors, previous employers, professional acquaintances, or volunteer coordinators to vouch for you.

These first-time renter references may not be able to speak to your reputation as a tenant, but they can speak to your character and sense of responsibility.

2. Find a Co-Signer or Guarantor

A co-signer or guarantor with good credit and a strong rental history can help convince landlords to rent to you.

Your co-signer or guarantor gives your landlord or property manager extra assurance that your rent will be paid. However, it’s important to choose someone with a strong financial background who understands the responsibilities they’ll be taking on. A co-signer or guarantor is legally agreeing to pay the rent if you can’t.

3. Use a Professional Guarantor Service

A professional guarantor service acts as a third party to step in and pay your rent if you are unable to do so. These services do come with a fee, but are a viable option if you can’t find a guarantor in your personal network and your landlord wants a financial safety net.

4. Consider a Roommate

Roommates can potentially balance out your lack of rental history. Landlords typically look at combined rental experience and income, meaning approval is often easier. It can also make it easier for you to afford the rent and utilities.

Before moving in with a new roomie, ensure your potential roommate has a stable rental history, strong references, and a good credit score to strengthen your application.

5. Prepare an Excellent Application

Make your apartment application stand out by gathering all necessary documents (that make you look like an incredible tenant). Include the details about your employment and mention any outstanding information, like being promoted twice within a year’s time.

You can also add personal background details, such as volunteering with a noteworthy organization. Remember to attach any relevant documents, including pay stubs, character references, and a cover letter explaining your situation and commitment to being a responsible tenant.

6. Offer a Higher Security Deposit

Consider offering more money in the security deposit without taking on a rent increase. Landlords often feel more secure if they have a substantial security deposit to fall back on should you fail to pay rent.

Ensure that all terms are properly outlined in your lease, so that when it's time for you to move out, you can have your deposit returned in full.

7. Provide Proof of Income

A stable job and proof of income are often all landlords need to feel at ease with a new renter. Provide multiple pay stubs, employment contracts, or bank statements to prove you’re financially responsible to cover all your rent and expenses.

You can also provide proof of any side hustles or contract work that resulted in financial windfalls throughout the year.

8. Write a Letter to the Landlord

Writing a short and sincere letter to explain your situation will humanize your application. Explain why you’ve never rented before. Whether because you’ve lived with family, traveled or just graduated and highlight your financial readiness to be a renter.

The goal is to demonstrate that you’re a responsible and desirable tenant by making a positive first impression.

9. Look for Private Landlords

Private landlords are often more flexible and offer apartments that accept first-time renters. They may be renting out their condo, a single-family home, or a townhouse.

They’ll still require proof of income and references like any landlord, but you’ll find they’re more open-minded to your application.

10. Try Short-Term Rentals or Sublets

Start building your rental history by exploring short-term rentals or sublets, which can help you build rental history without a long-term commitment. Landlords still view these properties as legitimate rentals, even if you don’t have a long-term lease.

Once you've established that you’re a reputable tenant and financially trustworthy, you’ll find it easier to secure a long-term lease.

How To Search and Apply for an Apartment With No Rental History?

Explore how to make the process of searching, applying, and landing a lease easier.

Start Your Search Early

Begin looking for an apartment well in advance of your ideal move-in day. When you’re a renter with no rental history, the application process may take longer than for other “normal renters.” You may need to provide additional documentation, pay extra fees, or more.

Finding an apartment can be difficult, even with a solid rental history. While a normal apartment search timeline is between 30 and 90 days, individuals with no rental history can start looking four to six months before their moving date.

Timing also plays a crucial role in your hunt. While the warmer months, from spring to fall, are popular and often saturated with competition, the winter months, known for being one of the best times to find an apartment, may provide unique opportunities for deals.

These off-peak times are typically less competitive and might even be cheaper. If your schedule allows, consider aligning your move with these quieter periods to maximize your chances of finding the perfect place.

Know What You Are Looking For

When apartment hunting with no rental history, identify your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and can-live-withouts, while still leaving some room for flexibility. By distinguishing between your essentials and your preferences, you'll be better prepared to make quick and informed decisions.

This clarity not only helps you stay focused on what truly matters but also allows room for unexpected opportunities that could turn out to be just right for you.

But if we’re being honest, if you’re a first-time renter, chances are you can’t be too picky—unless money isn’t an issue. While your search naturally encompasses factors like amenities, layout, square footage, floor level, and views, remember that being flexible doesn't mean sacrificing what's most important to you.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Online rental platforms, such as Apartment List can save you time and money. These websites offer pictures, reviews, details on amenities, and more, giving you a comprehensive view of what to expect.

Prioritize listing sites like Apartment List, which are updated hourly, to access real-time listing information. Set filters based on your maximum budget, required amenities (such as in-unit laundry), commute time, or the number of bedrooms or bathrooms you desire.

You can also take our Apartment List quiz to get matched with everything you’re looking for—in minutes.

Schedule Apartment Tours

Once you've narrowed down your list of potential apartments, it’s time to arrange tours. Tours provide a firsthand experience of the space, and many complexes now offer diverse options, such as video tours or no-contact self-guided visits, while some may still offer traditional guided walk-throughs.

Ask questions during the tour. Understanding key aspects such as future rent increases, lease terms, allowable changes to the apartment, parking, and maintenance procedures is crucial before making a decision. These questions aren't just about ensuring the apartment meets your needs; they're about setting clear expectations and avoiding unwelcome surprises down the road.

Apply and Sign Your Lease

Have your documents with you and ready to submit when you go on tours. The best rental units go fast.

That same unit may not be available tomorrow because fantastic amenities, desirable neighborhoods, and luxury apartments are in high demand.

Start Your Search With Apartment List

You know how to find an apartment with no rental history, now it's time to submit applications and secure that lease.

Use Apartment List’s filters and other features to help you find your next home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting an Apartment with No Rental History

What documents do I need to provide when applying for an apartment with no rental history?

Documents you may need to provide when applying for an apartment with no rental history include the following:

• Proof of income: This could include pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer confirming your salary.
• Bank statements: This will show the landlord that you have a stable financial history and can afford to pay the rent.
• Employment verification: This could be a letter from your employer confirming your employment dates and salary.
• Personal references: This could include friends, family members, or former employers who can vouch for your character and responsibility.

In addition to these documents, you may also be asked to provide a copy of your driver's license or other form of identification. The specific documents required will vary depending on the landlord or property management company.

Can I rent an apartment without employment history?

Yes, it’s possible to rent an apartment with no employment/job history. To get around this, have a co-signer or guarantor sign the lease with you or provide proof of funds by sharing bank statements.

If you’re a student, you can also share any information about scholarships and your student status.

How do you explain a lack of rental history?

When trying to rent an apartment without a rental history, be upfront about your background. Write a brief letter explaining why you have no rental history and why you’d like to move to this specific apartment.

Is lack of rental history bad?

No, having no rental history isn’t “bad,” but it does make it harder for first-time renters to find a place to live. Landlords rely on a tenant's rental history to determine whether they will pay their rent on time and be a good tenant.