I need someone other than a co-signer for an apt.?

Question

my friend & i have been trying to rent a place for a few months now but have failed because our monthly income isn't enough. in marin county we have to make tripe the amount of rent a month to get a place. so at the moment were looking at 2 br's for around $1550..do the math..that's A LOT for two 20 yr olds. so i've tried asking my sister to co-sign but of course, she is worried that her credit could get ruined. my friend told me something about a co-signer that doesn't have to ofiacially be a co-signer. what im saying is that i can get my sister to sign the contract with me, but not have her credit affected at all. i have no idea what this is called. she can say shes giving me enough money to make our income enough a month but if we were late or got into debt,they wouldnt bother her at all. is there any other way to get an apt without a co-signer?

Answer 1

your sister is very very smart.  She shouldn't co-sign.  If you (or your roommate) default, she would be responsible.

Even with income at 3 times the rent, You can't afford this place.  Look somewhere else or get a 2nd job.

Answer 2

Requiring the tenants to make 3 x the rent is the norm.

There is no way to have your sister sign the contract and not have her credit affected if you and your roomie default. It is just not possible. In order for her income to be considered, she would have to be on the lease as a tenant, which would make her liable.

You cannot afford the rent, plain and simple.

Find something that is within your budget.

Answer 3

You CAN'T AFFORD that much. Why would someone put their name to it? A co-signer legally promises to pay if you don't. Without that promise what good are they to a landlord? Rent a one-bedroom and someone sleep on the couch. Take turns, maybe.