Beware, this post may come off as a bit of a rant. Probably because it is a bit of a rant.
This week I have had several calls from people following up on applications to our apartments, keep in mind that our policy (which every applicant is told) is this – if you are approved for move-in we will contact you, there is no need to contact us. So I feel that calling me to ‘check the status of an application’, is grounds for denying an application.
This morning alone I had two applicants that called over three times each to check the status of applications I received last night. Each time I reminded the caller that I would contact them if they had been approved, there is no need to call back and check your application. These calls only prompted me to push the task of screening these applications further down on my To Do List.
When I got around to checking out the applications I found that both applicants on both applications had at least one eviction on their record with the Marion Municipal Courts. Why is it such a big deal, you ask? Let me break it down like this – If Bob lends Tom $20 and Tom doesn’t pay Bob back are you going to lend Tom a single dime? Essentially stiffing one landlord and then expecting another to rent to you is the same exact thing.
So, now what should you do if you have been previously evicted and wish for it to be cleared up? PAY UP! Contact the landlord and satisfy your debt, evictions show up on your record as well as your credit report. So be sure to get a written receipt for your payment to show that you have made it right and then contact the credit bureau. If you are unable to make contact then I would tell you to find some legal council. Aside from that be upfront with all prospective landlords so they don’t think you are trying to hide your eviction record.
