When you live in Florida and have a felony conviction, you may find that your conviction makes it harder for you to do many different things, including finding a job or housing. Having a felony, alone, does not automatically mean you are not going to be able to find an apartment. However, you may find that a felony conviction makes it decidedly more difficult to do so.
Per Rent.com, most landlords are going to run a background check on you before having you sign a lease and move in. The chances of a felony conviction coming up during a background check are high, so you may want to let your potential landlord know upfront if you have one. It is also within a potential landlord’s rights to reject your rental application on account of your felony conviction if he or she wishes to do so. However, you may be able to increase your chances of finding an apartment to rent as a felon by doing the following.
Use specific search terms
While you have to pass a background check before moving into many apartments, there are still some out there that you may be able to get without having your background checked first. Consider searching for “no background check apartments” or “second chance rentals” to help narrow down your search.
Use an individual landlord
You may have a better chance of finding a felon-friendly apartment if you work with a private landlord, rather than an apartment complex. When you opt for this route, you may have a chance to share your story with your landlord and describe why you are going to be a good tenant despite your past.
Finding an apartment when you have a felony may take more time and effort than it might otherwise, but it is possible.
