Renting with spotty rent history (apartment, lease, credit, pay)

[jw623]

I've been living in this same apartment with my mom for about 7 years(I'm in my 30s), splitting the rent. However, because rent is higher with two people, I wasn't on the lease until about 2 years ago.

Now that I'm looking to move out, how hard of a time am I going to have finding an apartment since I have a 5 year or so gap with no lease history? Is there anything I can do to make this easier? My overall credit is about average.

[bentlebee]

You may have to pay first, last and security upfront. Not having a long history isn't that bad. Having a bad history is worse.

[STT Resident]

You shouldn't have a problem with two good years behind you. First, last and security upfront is the norm in many places.

[Electrician4you]

You can also explain you were living with your mom. It's not unheard of