I have some advice for anyone looking to rent a home with less then stellar credit. DON'T get discouraged and automatically think the agent/owner will reject you if there are alot of prospects. Smile, be sincere, be human, be yourself.

1. Be on time.

2. Be honest. Explain to the agent (or owner) that you have had a past bankruptcy, credit issue etc. & bring proof of it. One of my best tenants brought a "discharged" bankruptcy form with her when she came to see the condo I had for rent. She explained she did some dumb things when she was younger. I rented the condo to her and she was never late with the rent and it was immaculate when she left.

3. Bring a copy of your credit report, phone #'s of your employer, copy of your driver's license etc. ANYTHING that will make filling out the application easier. Blank spaces left on applications, and even illegible applications have been tossed by me, when I have 10 other prospects. It shows lack of respect.

4. Be polite & non-confrontational! Leave your bad attitude at home.No owner wants to deal with a disgruntled tenant from day #1.

5. Wear clean clothing. Casual is fine & neatness is important.

6. Watch your language. Profanity is not acceptable & most owners will be turned off.

7. Don't be afraid to follow up if you have not heard from the owner.Expressing your enthusiasm about the house always helps;("we have always wanted a pool, & this is one of the loveliest I have seen" or "I love the kitchen, we enjoy cooking"). I like to choose tenants who LOVE the house. Passion is catchy.

8. DON"T badmouth your present landlord.

9. Don't leave your checkbook at home. The one with the check for the application fee or first month's rent is usually seen as a more serious tenant.

Remember, you are going on an "interview"  & first impressions are lasting. Put your best foot forward & I bet you get first dibs on that new apt.