BOISE, Idaho — Boisean Sharon Walker started looking for a house to rent for herself, daughter and two grandsons several months ago. But Walker said they have not had much luck because most property managers are too strict about who they accept.
"With our two incomes, we do pretty good," she said, "and we're still having difficulties."
Walker said they have found some good options within their price point but cannot get in anywhere because they don't check all the boxes on paper, which can include having a credit score above 600 and earning 2 to 3 times one month's rent.
Summer Kiser, Jesse Tree housing navigator, said Walker and her family are not alone.
"A majority of places require three times the rent and income," she said. "You may be able to sustainably live in a place and pay the rent, but you don't make three times that. Or if you don't make three times that, they'll require an additional deposit."
Kiser said in some cases, they have seen moving costs upward of $4,000. That price tag typically consists of first month's rent, last month's rent, holding fees, administrative fees, and various deposits.
If someone does not have a credit score of 600, Kiser said property managers might require a cosigner. In the Treasure Valley, Jesse Tree data shows median rent is about $1,300-$1,600 depending on size.
She said move-in criteria disproportionately impact low-income people, especially since rent keeps increasing.
"To be able to qualify for those places, you have to make upwards of 3000 a month," she said, "If you are a single parent and you're just looking for a one or two-bedroom, you're likely not going to make over $3,000 a month. So, it makes it really hard for them to get into places in."
Landlord Joey Schueler, who rents two properties below the market rate, said he understands the struggle.
"There's just a lot of desperation for people to get placed," he said, "I see that."
However, Schueler said property owners rely on reliable income. If someone does not pay on time, that impacts their ability to take care of recurring expenses.
Schueler said he has rented to people with more unique financial situations, which has gone well and poorly. Regardless, he still likes to get to know potential renters, even if they have a dinged credit score.
"I think that's a big part of this is just finding the right scenario and being open to those differences," he said. "But also ensuring that I can pay my mortgage."
Walker said they have looked into low-income options, even rental assistance programs. But they have not had good luck with those either because of waitlists.
Despite the difficulties, Walker said she is hopeful she and her family will find a place with a fair landlord.
No laws under Idaho law prevent landlords from having strict move-in criteria. Kiser said people struggling to get into a rental can always contact Jesse Tree or another housing nonprofit.
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