My husband did not pay our mortgage for ten months and hid it from me. Can I get an apt with tarnished credit?

Question

I was a co-signer on our mortgage and it has affected my credit.

Answer 1

Sure, if you explain the situation and have credit references (such as credit cards etc..) that are current and up to date you should be fine.

Answer 2

Be honest with your potential landlord - believe me, they hear all kinds of stories - and if you are sincere and can offer references (your boss? your banker? your lawyer?) they may be willing to help you get a fresh start. Once approved, be diligent about paying rent on time - no excuses - to thank your landlord for the opportunity.

In the meantime, start rebuilding your individual credit today. Get a copy of your credit report/history from all three major reporting services (your banker can help you with this or you can do it online) and clear off any errors.

If you don't have a credit card in your name only, get one, or maybe two, and use them carefully and wisely, and pay them off regularly.

If you have credit cards or accounts that are in your name only, already, and have good credit histories, don't close them. They will help show a good historic foundation of responsibility on your behalf.

You did not say if you were separated, divorcing, or whatever, but it sounds like you are on your own now. Whoever is helping you with the life transition has probably already told you to pay attention to credit cards or accounts with both you and your husband's name on them, and where both of you can still access them. There should be some written agreement and action plan about what happens to existing balances and who takes over responsibility for those accounts.

You can do this! Take charge of your individual credit rating, because it will affect so many things in your life - forever.

Good luck and best wishes.

Answer 3

You may be able to get an apartment. I'm not a rental expert however.

I am more an expert at investing and buying homes. I know how to find you the right home and get you financed even with really low credit.

I'm not kidding or BSing. If you're serious, just send me an email. I'd be glad to help.

Answer 4

You can certainly apply for housing. If you explain this credit report deficiency upfront to the landlord, they MAY take it into consideration and 'forgive' it. That decision rests with the landlord/management firm. However, it is best to explain it upfront.