Credit card debt and moving to a new place question

[questions]

I have a question that is making me sick to my stomach with worry. I have a lot of Credit Card Debt. Over $27k. The good news is I have made serious progress in paying it off this year, putting myself on a budget etc. Now I am moving to some place cheaper, cheaper by $200 a month which would be great for me.

However, for the application I have to list all my credit card debt and pass a credit check. I am terrified I will not pass. Do I offer to have a co-signer? If so, do I do it before or after I fail. I have never ever been late on my rent and this person can check that with my current landlord. However, I am still terrified that this will seriously hurt me and that I won't be able to move. I have made some big mistakes but I am making progress, do you think there is a point to letting the new potential landlord know in advance that I am aware I have a lot of CC debt but that I have never had trouble paying rent on time?

[kork13]

Good to hear from you again, Questions!

I wouldn't offer a co-signer--as is said often, that simply gives people an invitation to put your friends/family at risk financially. However, it might not be a bad move to be upfront with your potential landlord. State that you are aware of your poor credit, but explain that you have been improving it over the last year or so. Also, point out that you've never been late on a rent payment, and offer your previous landlord as a reference (IF he/she is willing to put in a good word for you--check with them before you give their number).

Hopefully, you will have no issues with your poor credit causing problems. If there is one, you most likely will just be required to provide a higher deposit--rather than 1 month's rent, your deposit might be 2-3 month's rent. This is a protection for your landlord in case something does happen. However, so long as you keep paying your rent, you'll get the full deposit back when you move out. If you are denied based on your credit, ask if they would consider accepting your application with a higher deposit.

Last shot, get a roommate (with good credit) to live with you. One of my roommates has NO credit history, and therefore couldn't be put on our lease. However, we got the apartment based on my good credit. This is essentially the same as having a co-signer, but at least here the other person also has a vested interest in it. Otherwise, you could potentially find yourself in a world of hurt (lawsuits, etc.).