After a foreclosure, what was your experience obtaining a rental property? (Orange: short sale, good credit)

[Leavethetable]

If you recently lost your home in Orange County, how easy or difficult was it to obtain a rental property shortly thereafter? Were you turned down frequently or did you just have to put up more of a deposit? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. I may be looking in the Foothill Ranch, Lake Forest, Rancho, Portola, Ladera areas.

[Sunnnee]

My boyfriend had a hard time getting a duplex to rent. He was lucky to sell the house (short sale) but at least he owes the bank nothing. Still with that on his credit, he got treated as if he was the plague. After 5 months, we finally found a place for him. I got the place for him because he was so frustrated, but let me tell you the main thing you must do to avoid wasting time:

BE UP FRONT ABOUT EVERYTHING!

Avoid filling out the apps and paying to have your credit checked. Its just not worth it if they won't even rent to you in the first place. Why waste your time or theirs. Let them know your sitaution and most simple-minded people will tell you if they want to rent to you or not. At least you can move on.

Avoid big Apt complex's because they want really good credit. Try an older complex. Good Luck!