Beyond Bending Tell You How
After serving time in prison, finding a place to live can be a daunting task for those with a criminal record. Many landlords refuse to rent to individuals with a felony conviction, making it difficult to secure housing and reintegrate into society. However, there are options available for those in search of felon friendly housing near them.
In this blog post, we will discuss the criteria for felon friendly housing, how to search for it, and the resources available to help you navigate the process. We will also provide answers to common questions and concerns surrounding this topic. Whether you are a former inmate or a loved one assisting a loved one, this post is for you.
Criteria for Felon Friendly Housing
When searching for felon friendly housing, it is important to know what criteria to look for. Most landlords perform background checks on potential tenants, but not all have strict policies against renting to individuals with a criminal record. Here are some factors that may increase your chances of finding felon friendly housing:
1. Private Landlords
Private landlords may be more lenient when it comes to renting to individuals with a criminal record. They have more flexibility in their screening process and may be more willing to give someone a chance. Look for rental listings on websites such as Craigslist or Zillow that are listed by private owners.
2. Individualized Screening
Some landlords may be willing to overlook a criminal record if the individual can prove they are responsible and reliable. This may include letters of recommendation, proof of a steady job, or a strong rental history. Be prepared to provide evidence of your ability to be a good tenant.
3. Low-Income Housing
Low-income housing programs may be more open to renting to individuals with a criminal record. These programs are designed to help those in need, including those who have been incarcerated. Contact your local housing authority to see if you qualify for any programs.
4. Transitional Housing
Transitional housing is designed to help individuals transition back into society after incarceration. These programs offer temporary housing and support services to help individuals get back on their feet. Contact your local reentry program to see if they offer transitional housing.
How to Search for Felon Friendly Housing
Searching for felon friendly housing can be a time-consuming process, but there are resources available to help you. Here are some tips for finding housing near you:
1. Online Searches
Start your search by looking for rental listings online. Websites such as Craigslist and Zillow allow you to filter your search based on location, price, and other factors. You can also use search terms such as “felon friendly housing” or “second chance apartments” to find listings that are more open to renting to individuals with a criminal record.
2. Local Housing Authorities
Contact your local housing authority to see if they have any programs that may be able to help you. They may be able to provide a list of landlords who are open to renting to individuals with a criminal record.
3. Reentry Programs
Reentry programs are designed to help individuals transition back into society after incarceration. They often offer housing assistance and support services to help individuals find stable housing. Contact your local reentry program to see if they offer any housing assistance programs.
4. Community Resources
Local community organizations may be able to connect you with resources and programs that can help you find housing. Contact your local United Way or other community organization to see what resources are available in your area.
Resources for Finding Felon Friendly Housing
There are several resources available to help you find felon friendly housing near you. Here are some organizations and websites that can help:
| Organization/Website | Services Provided |
|---|---|
| Second Chance Homes | Provides housing assistance and support services to individuals with a criminal record. |
| Reentry Programs | Offers housing assistance and support services to individuals transitioning back into society. |
| 211 | Connects individuals with community resources, including housing assistance programs. |
| National Housing Locator Service | Provides a database of affordable housing options across the country. |
Common Questions and Concerns
Here are some common questions and concerns surrounding felon friendly housing:
1. Can a landlord legally refuse to rent to someone with a criminal record?
Yes, a landlord can legally refuse to rent to someone with a criminal record. However, they must have a legitimate business reason for doing so, such as a concern for the safety of other tenants or property.
2. Can a landlord evict a tenant with a criminal record?
A landlord can only evict a tenant with a criminal record if their criminal activity is affecting the safety of other tenants or the property. They cannot evict someone solely because of their criminal record.
3. Can a landlord charge more rent or a higher security deposit for someone with a criminal record?
No, a landlord cannot charge more rent or a higher security deposit for someone with a criminal record. They must treat all tenants equally and cannot discriminate based on criminal history.
Conclusion
Securing housing after incarceration can be a difficult process, but there are options available for those in need of felon friendly housing. Look for private landlords, individualized screening, low-income housing programs, and transitional housing. Utilize online searches, local housing authorities, reentry programs, and community resources to help you find housing near you. Remember, there are resources available to help you navigate this process and find a place to call home.
