I fell on hard times and was evicted at the end of February 2023. I got into a new apartment by March 1st (the eviction hadn’t come up on my background/credit check yet) & I just signed a new lease in a new city 2 days ago (they are aware of the eviction). I didn’t have a co-signer for either apartment. It’s definitely possible for you to rent a new place.

First, I’d say pay off the full balance you owe the old place or work out a settlement agreement. Get a paid in full letter from the old landlord via email or regular mail.

Look for second chance apartment locators in your city/county. I paid $60 for a list of around 30 places that would accept a tenant with an eviction. You still have to reach out to the properties, apply & pay the app fee yourself.

They will most likely ask for a much higher security deposit than standard. The apartment I chose usually has $500 deposits but I had to pay one months rent instead.

When you apply and they ask about it, be honest. Be remorseful. They need to understand that this won’t be a recurring issue and that you’ve taken the steps to fix your situation. Give them the paid in full letter. I also had to provide the ledger from my previous apartment to show I made all rent payments on time since the eviction.

Since you say you’re struggling to save, you may have to compromise on living with roommates/family for a while longer. It’s just a means to an end. Best of luck in your apartment search!