In general, a landlord will look for a credit score that is at least “good,” which is generally in the range of 670 to 739. However, that can vary by landlord or property manager, as well as the location in which you're renting.
Renting, especially on a short-term basis, can sometimes come with higher monthly costs due to the increased flexibility it offers the landlord. For instance, a studio apartment for rent on a month-to-month basis might be more expensive per month than the same apartment under a lease agreement.
Housing (rent or mortgage) should not be more than 1/3 of your income before taxes. If you work full time (40 hours) at $12 per hour, that's $2000 per month, so you shouldn't spend more than $667 per month on housing. That's definitely going to restrict where you can live.
Renting an apartment isn't as easy as waltzing in and saying “I'll take it!”—particularly in today's competitive rental market. With many prospective tenants to choose from, landlords can be picky, and they will prioritize applicants with a track record of paying off debts and respecting their neighbors and community.
If you want to start an HP action against the property owner, go to the Clerk's Office at the Housing Court. You do not need a lawyer to start an HP case. For more information about HP actions, visit the website of the New York State Unified Court System.
There is actually no legal requirement for your landlord to provide you a rental agreement or a lease. Legally speaking you are then going to fall under what is commonly known as a month-to-month rental.
Trials in Housing Court are usually heard by a Judge without a jury. The Judge can decide a case only upon legally admissible evidence. Therefore, it is up to you to present proper proof to the Judge to prove or disprove the claims that are being made in the lawsuit.
If yes to any of the above, contact the tenant resources below: Call Housing Court Answers at 718-557-1379 or 212-962-4795 from Monday - Friday, between 9am and 5pm. Call 311 and ask for the Tenant Helpline. Email OCJ at civiljustice@hra.nyc.
While you await action on your rent reduction request, you can call 311 (TTY 212-504-4115) to file a complaint with the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). You can also submit your complaint online at portal.311.nyc.
If you want to start an HP action against the property owner, go to the Clerk's Office at the Housing Court. You do not need a lawyer to start an HP case. For more information about HP actions, visit the website of the New York State Unified Court System.