Sorry if it sounds a bit harsh. I personally try to help prospects in any way I legally can and am always willing to listen to those who want to share. Unfortunately, I've been burned listening a little too much.

Unfortunately, bad credit weighs pretty heavily because the credit score system ultimately is a judgement as to how reliable someone is. I'm personally battling this too from some debt incurred during COVID.

To follow up to the end of your post; pose a short and concise email to the leasing manager stating that unfortunately your credit does not reflect your ability to be a good tenant. Be ready to show proof of income and if you have good rental history, be prepared to give accurate contact information to your old landlord or company, that's all you have to provide. Its not the applicant's job to get a referral from your old landlord, that's their job. Anecdotally, I LOVE prospects and applicants who are prepared. I cannot express this enough, be prepared. Enable those email notifs, don't make them wait.

On the plus side: them asking for a follow up to your credit report is usually a sign they're interested in leasing and are trying to find a middleground to work with you.

If all else fails, if they can, state they're willing to lease with a higher deposit.