If you’re looking to rent a house or duplex (especially in Midland, MI), it’s normal to wonder: what credit score do I need to get approved?
Here’s the honest truth: there’s no single credit score requirement for renting. Every landlord and property manager sets their own standards, and many weigh your income, rental history, and overall credit report just as much as the number.
That said, there are common score ranges landlords tend to feel comfortable with—and there are practical ways to improve your odds even if your credit isn’t perfect.
Quick answer: credit score ranges most landlords look for
Many landlords consider these ranges a general guide:
- 700+: strong approval odds (assuming the rest of the application checks out)
- 620–699: often approved, especially with solid income and rental history
- 600–619: possible, but you’ll likely need extra strength (references, higher income, co-signer, etc.)
- Below 600: approval can be tougher, but not impossible with the right approach
Many sources that discuss rental screening commonly cite ~600–650 as a typical target range, with higher requirements in more competitive situations. Apartment List RentPrep
Why landlords check credit for houses and duplexes
Credit checks are usually less about “judging you” and more about reducing risk. When a landlord reviews credit, they’re typically looking for signs you’ll be able to consistently pay rent, manage obligations, and handle unexpected costs.
In practice, landlords often look at:
- On-time payment history
- Past-due accounts / collections
- High credit card balances
- Recent bankruptcies (and how long it’s been)
- Patterns (a one-time event vs repeated late payments)
Just as important: many landlords look at the full report, not only the score.
What score ranges mean (and why you’ll see different “labels”)
Most credit scores fall between 300 and 850. myFICO
A common breakdown for FICO® Scores is:
- Good: 670–739
- Higher than that is often considered very good / exceptional (by many lenders and scoring references). Experian
Different sites define categories slightly differently, and your score can vary depending on the scoring model and bureau—so think of ranges as directional, not absolute.
The real approval formula: what matters as much as credit score
If you want the best chance to rent a house or duplex, your credit score is only one part of the picture. These are the other “big movers” that often influence approval:
1) Income (and rent affordability)
Landlords want confidence the rent fits comfortably into your budget. A higher score helps, but strong income and stable employment can often offset moderate credit issues.
2) Job stability
A steady work history (or a solid offer letter if you’re relocating) can help.
3) Rental history and references
A strong reference from a prior landlord can carry serious weight—especially if your credit score isn’t ideal.
4) Debt load (even if your score is okay)
Someone can have a “fine” score but high monthly payments. Some landlords worry about how tight your budget is.
5) Red flags on the report
Certain items can matter more than the score itself (for example, repeated late payments or unpaid collections).
Rental Application Checklist: What to Bring + What Landlords Verify
Is it harder to rent a house or duplex than an apartment?
Sometimes, yes—mainly because houses and duplexes can be more limited in supply, and each owner may have their own criteria.
But there’s a benefit: many house/duplex landlords make decisions using the full picture (income + references + stability), which can be an advantage for renters who present a strong application package.
Can you rent with a low credit score? Yes — here’s how to improve your odds
If your score is lower than you want, don’t panic. You can still get approved by “building the case” that you’re a reliable renter.
1) Lead with stability: show the rent will be paid on time
Have these ready when you apply:
- Recent pay stubs (or proof of income)
- Offer letter if you’re starting a new job
- Bank statements (if requested)
- A simple budget snapshot (optional, but helpful)
- References (especially prior landlords)
2) Write a short, professional credit explanation (1–2 paragraphs)
If there’s a clear reason your score dipped (medical bills, temporary hardship, divorce, job loss), a calm explanation can help.
Keep it:
- brief
- factual
- forward-looking (“here’s what changed”)
3) Offer a qualified co-signer (if allowed)
A co-signer with strong income/credit can reduce risk and increase your approval odds.
4) Be careful with “I’ll just pay a bigger deposit”
In Michigan, the security deposit generally can’t exceed 1.5 months’ rent under Michigan law. Michigan Legislature
So “paying a huge deposit” often isn’t an option beyond the legal limit.
How Much Does It Cost to Move Into a Rental in Midland, MI?
How to improve your credit score before you apply (fast + realistic steps)
Some credit improvements take time—but others can help relatively quickly depending on what’s dragging your score down.
Quick wins (next 30–60 days)
These are the moves most likely to create improvement soon:
- Pay down credit cards (especially if your balances are high compared to the limit)
- Turn on autopay for minimum payments so you never miss a due date
- Dispute errors if something is incorrect (wrong late payment, duplicate debt, etc.)
- Avoid new hard inquiries right before applying, if possible
Strong wins (next 3–6 months)
- Keep payments on time across the board
- Reduce revolving balances further
- Don’t open multiple new accounts in a short period (unless essential)
Rebuild wins (6–12+ months)
If you’re recovering from major negatives, rebuilding tends to be a longer process. The good news: consistent on-time payments and lower balances move you in the right direction.
What happens if you’re denied because of a screening report?
If a landlord denies your application (or changes terms) based on information in a tenant screening report, federal guidance explains that you generally must be informed and given steps to access that report and dispute inaccuracies. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
If this happens, you can:
- Ask what factor caused the decision (credit, income, rental history, etc.)
- Request the report details (and how to get a copy)
- Dispute any errors quickly
This is one reason it can help to review your credit and paperwork before you apply—so there are no surprises.
Renting in Midland, MI: practical tips that increase approvals
If you’re applying locally, your application stands out when it’s complete and easy to verify.
Here are simple steps that often help:
Apply with a “complete file”
Don’t make the landlord chase you for documents. Provide:
- ID
- income verification
- references
- a short explanation if needed
Respond quickly
Many rentals move fast. A prompt reply can matter as much as a few credit-score points.
Be consistent across documents
Make sure your:
- application
- pay stubs
- employer info
- references
…all match cleanly.
FAQ: credit score and renting a house or duplex
What credit score is needed to rent a house or duplex?
There’s no universal minimum, but many landlords commonly look for something around 600–650 as a starting point, with stronger odds as you move higher. Apartment List Rent Prep
Is 700 a good credit score for renting?
A 700 score is generally considered “good” in many scoring references, and it often improves approval odds as long as the rest of your application is solid. Experian
Can I rent with bad credit if I have strong income?
Often, yes. Strong income, job stability, and positive rental history can offset a lower score—especially with a complete application and good references.
Can I offer a higher deposit to get approved?
In Michigan, the security deposit generally can’t exceed 1.5 months’ rent, so a “much higher deposit” usually isn’t an option beyond the legal limit. Michigan Legislature
What if my credit report has an error?
Disputing inaccurate items can help, and it’s worth doing before you pay multiple application fees.
Next steps: how to apply smarter (and get approved faster)
If you’re trying to rent a house or duplex in Midland, MI, focus on presenting the strongest full picture—not just a score.
Helpful next reads:
- Rental Application Checklist: What to Bring + What Landlords Verify
- How Much Does It Cost to Move Into a Rental in Midland, MI?
- Renter-Friendly Ways to Personalize Your Rental Without Losing Your Deposit
- Winter in Midland, MI: Renter Checklist to Avoid Frozen Pipes & Emergency Repairs
If you’re ready to take the next step, view our available rentals and apply with a complete file so we can review your application quickly.
