Convicted Felon Needs Home

[ericsami]

Here is what I suggest because I am landlord in another state.

go on Craigslist contact private home owners only.

be upfront with them and tell them you are willing to put down and additional security deposit to ease their mind.

It depends on you whether you want to be truthful upfront or you
like to just wait until they ask you for background check form.

[bossh0g]

buy an rv and rent a space for awhile. maybe ur luck will change after a while

[hornraider]

Listen Moondance1960, contrary to what you are hearing...Do not look into the 'ghetto' and higher crime areas, as those complexes are currently trying to 'weed-out' the criminal element associated with their areas(Riverside and Oltorf for example).

As crazy as it sounds, I would look to the more affluent areas on the west side, luxury apts are much more forgiving on the background checks. And you can find move-in deals in many newer complexes close to your work.
Dont rule out a duplex or small house either: for rent by owner (maybe a little further out of Austin city limits though).

Just be sure to be honest about your situation......Everyone(and i mean EVERYONE) makes mistakes, but if you lie about it on a rental application, its an automatic dealbreaker....trust me!
GOOD LUCK

[misspriss2734]

I am an ex felon myself. I just got out of TDCJ on June 4. I am trying to find work in the Austin area. I have a wonderful resume but seem to be hitting the "felony" brick wall. I am looking for Sales/Marketing etc. Do you have any suggestions that you could pass on to me?
Thank you.

Melissa

Originally Posted by Moondance1960

I have tried Realtors, called multiple apartment complexes, even ones in what are considered "bad areas" ... no one will rent to me.

I cannot continue to work here if I cannot find a place to live. I have to have a home. I worked hard to change everything and ended up with a job making 70k plus all paid benefits including a 401k, but I cannot stay here if I cannot find a home.

It is sad and it is breaks my heart. I now understand why so many people in my situation give up and go back to whatever bad habits/addictions they had ...

[misspriss2734]

I am also an ex felon looking for work and an apartment in the Austin/Georgetown area. Does anyone have any helpful suggestions? I have a wonderful resume with an extensive Sales/Marketing background. I keep getting interviews but turned away as soon as I tell them about my felony. I am having the same issue with finding a decent and safe place to live for my daughter and myself.
Please help!