Real Second Chance Apartment Listings in Cleveland and Akron

1. Emerald Pointe Apartments

Address: 3200 West 25th Street, Cleveland, OH 44109
Phone Number: (216) 351-4400
Rent Range: $650 – $950/month
What They Accept: Evictions, Bad Credit, Broken Leases, Bankruptcies
Deposit: Flexible, based on credit history
Bedrooms Available: Studio, 1BR, 2BR

2. Arbor Park Apartments

Address: 1760 Brown Street, Akron, OH 44301
Phone Number: (330) 762-7171
Rent Range: $575 – $875/month
What They Accept: Bad Credit, Evictions, All Credit Types, Felonies reviewed case by case
Deposit: $300 – $600 or negotiable
Bedrooms Available: 1BR, 2BR, 3BR

3. Highland Square Commons

Address: 831 West Market Street, Akron, OH 44303
Phone Number: (330) 867-2200
Rent Range: $625 – $925/month
What They Accept: Broken Leases, Evictions, Bad Credit, Misdemeanors
Deposit: Flexible, based on income and history
Bedrooms Available: Studio, 1BR, 2BR

What Are Second Chance Apartments?

Second chance apartments are rental homes that welcome people with a hard rental past. They do not say no right away when they see an eviction or a low credit score. Instead, they look at who you are today. They care more about your current income and your honest effort than your old mistakes.

Think of a regular apartment as a locked door. Only people with perfect records can get in. A second chance apartment is a door that stays open a little longer. It gives you time to explain. It gives you room to grow.

These apartments exist all across Ohio. Cleveland and Akron both have many options. Whether you need second chance leasing in Cleveland or eviction-friendly apartments in Akron, this guide covers both cities step by step.

How They Differ from Standard Rentals

A standard rental uses a computer to say yes or no. If your credit is below 620, the answer is usually no. If you have an eviction, the door closes fast. That is how most big apartment companies work.

A second chance apartment works differently. The landlord or property manager reviews your file by hand. They ask: Does this person earn enough now? Have they paid their old debt? How long ago did the problem happen? These questions give you a real shot at approval.

The screening is still real. You will still fill out an application. Your background will still be checked. But the process is human. It is fair. And it leaves room for people who have learned from hard times.

Who Qualifies for Second Chance Leasing in Ohio

Most people who apply for second chance housing in Ohio qualify if they meet a few basic things. You need to show steady income. Most landlords want to see that you earn at least two to three times the monthly rent. You also need to be honest about your past. You should not owe a large amount to a past landlord without a plan to pay it back.

People with old evictions often qualify. People with broken leases, discharged bankruptcies, low credit scores, and even some felony convictions can qualify too. The key is your current situation. If you are working, paying bills, and ready to be a good tenant, many landlords in Cleveland and Akron will give you a chance.

Common Rental History Issues These Apartments Accept

Past Evictions and Broken Leases

An eviction does not end your chances of renting again. In Ohio, an eviction stays on your record for up to seven years. But many second chance landlords in Cleveland accept evictions that are two or more years old. Some even accept recent evictions if you can explain what happened and show proof of change.

A broken lease happens when a renter leaves early without giving proper notice. This is seen as less serious than a court-ordered eviction by many landlords. If your broken lease was caused by a job loss, medical problem, or family emergency, say so. Most second chance landlords will listen.

The best move is to pay off any money you still owe from a past eviction or broken lease. Even a payment plan shows good faith. Landlords notice that effort. It helps a lot.

Bad Credit, Bankruptcies, and Repossessions

Bad credit is one of the most common reasons people search for second chance apartments. A low credit score, medical bills, old collections, or a past bankruptcy can all block a standard rental. But these do not block every landlord.

Many second chance apartments in Cleveland and Akron accept credit scores as low as 500. Some do not check credit at all. Instead, they focus on income. If you earn enough and have stable work, your credit score matters less.

A discharged bankruptcy (Chapter 7 or Chapter 13) is often accepted because it means your old debts are cleared. Many second chance landlords see a discharged bankruptcy as a sign of a fresh start. Car repossessions also rarely block approval on their own if your current income is steady.

Criminal Records: Misdemeanors and Felonies

Criminal records are reviewed case by case. A misdemeanor is rarely a dealbreaker. Many landlords overlook older misdemeanors, especially non-violent ones. If the offense is more than two years old and you have been off probation for some time, your chances are good.

Felonies are harder but not impossible. Non-violent felonies are much easier to work with than violent ones. Drug-related or financial felonies are often reviewed with more flexibility. The longer it has been since the conviction, the better. Many felon-friendly apartments in Ohio ask only that the conviction be at least one to three years old.

Some buildings have insurance policies that limit who they can rent to. This is not personal. It is a policy set by the building’s insurance company. If one place says no, try a private landlord. Private owners have more freedom to say yes.

Second Chance Apartments in Cleveland, OH

Cleveland is a large city with many rental options. The housing market here gives second chance renters real choices. Second chance apartments in Cleveland, Ohio can be found in many price ranges and neighborhoods.

Best Neighborhoods and Areas to Search

Some neighborhoods in Cleveland are more open to second chance renters than others. West Side neighborhoods like Ohio City, Tremont, and Old Brooklyn have many private landlords who are flexible. The East Side also has affordable rentals in areas like Glenville and Collinwood. Suburbs like Parma, Lakewood, and East Cleveland often have more landlord flexibility and lower rents than downtown.

Look for smaller buildings. A 4 to 12 unit building is usually owned by one private person. That person can make their own rules. They are more likely to meet with you, hear your story, and say yes.

Private Landlords vs. Property Management Companies

Private landlords are your best bet for second chance leasing in Cleveland. They make their own choices. They do not have a corporate policy that says no to evictions. You can talk to them directly. You can explain your past. You can build trust before they even pull your report.

Property management companies manage dozens or hundreds of units. They use strict screening software. It is harder to get a yes from them. Some do offer second chance programs, but it takes more effort and documentation.

Try to find for rent by owner (FRBO) listings online. These are private landlords. Search sites like Craigslist, Zillow, and Facebook Marketplace using terms like “all credit welcome” or “bad credit ok.”

Affordable Options Under $1,000 in Cleveland

Finding second chance apartments in Cleveland under $1,000 is very possible. Many one-bedroom apartments in neighborhoods like Slavic Village, St. Clair-Superior, and Hough rent for $600 to $900 per month. Studio apartments can go as low as $500 in some areas.

If you need a two-bedroom under $1,000, look at the west suburbs. Parma and Brooklyn have decent options in that range. The key is to search fast. Affordable second chance units go quickly.

Second Chance Apartments in Akron, OH

Akron sits just south of Cleveland. It is a great city for second chance renters. Rents are lower. Landlords are often more flexible. The city has a strong community of small property owners who work with renters who need a fresh start.

Why Akron Can Be Easier to Get Approved In

Akron has lower demand than Cleveland. This means landlords often wait longer to fill their units. When a landlord has waited a month or more, they become more willing to work with a second chance renter. Lower competition means more flexibility for you.

Rents in Akron are also lower. A one-bedroom apartment can rent for $575 to $800 per month in many parts of the city. This makes it easier to show the 2x to 3x income requirement. If you earn $1,500 to $2,000 per month, Akron has many units you can qualify for.

Top Areas and Complexes Open to Second Chance Renters

Neighborhoods like Highland Square, North Hill, and Firestone Park in Akron have many private landlords open to second chance renters. These areas are walkable, affordable, and close to public transportation.

Some apartment communities in Akron also advertise eviction-friendly leasing directly. Ask property managers directly if they accept applicants with past rental issues. Many will say yes if your income is stable.

Nearby Cities to Expand Your Search (Canton, Cuyahoga Falls, Parma)

If you are not finding the right fit in Cleveland or Akron, expand your search. Canton is about 20 miles south of Akron. It has very affordable rentals and many private landlords open to second chance applicants.

Cuyahoga Falls is right next to Akron and has slightly higher rents but a calmer rental market. Parma is south of Cleveland with many mid-size apartment buildings, some of which have second chance programs. These nearby cities give you more options and more chances of approval.

How to Qualify: What Landlords Look For

Proof of Income and Employment Stability

Income is the number one thing second chance landlords check. They want to know you can pay rent every month. Bring your last two or three pay stubs. If you are self-employed, bring three months of bank statements. If you get disability, Social Security, or child support, bring a letter showing the amount and how long it will continue.

Most second chance landlords in Ohio want your income to be at least 2x to 3x the monthly rent. So for a $750/month apartment, aim to show at least $1,500 to $2,250 in monthly income. The more stable your income looks, the better your chances.

How Long Ago Was the Eviction or Felony?

Time matters a lot. A 2-year-old eviction is much easier to work with than one from six months ago. A felony from five years ago is viewed very differently from one from last year. The further back your issue is, the more second chance landlords will overlook it.

Here is a simple breakdown of how time affects approval chances:

Issue	Less Than 1 Year	1 to 3 Years	3 or More Years
Eviction	Hard to get approved	Possible with income proof	Much easier
Broken Lease	Difficult	Possible	Usually accepted
Non-Violent Felony	Very hard	Possible, case by case	Often accepted
Bad Credit (under 550)	Challenging	Manageable	Often accepted

Use this as a guide. Every landlord is different, but this gives you a real picture of what to expect.

Documents to Prepare Before You Apply

Being prepared makes a big difference. Bring these documents to every application appointment. A valid government photo ID. Your last two or three pay stubs. Bank statements from the last three months. A reference letter from a past employer or supervisor. If you paid off old rental debt, bring proof. If you completed a job training or rehabilitation program, bring that paperwork too.

The more you bring, the more trustworthy you look. A landlord who sees organized, ready-to-share documents will feel much more confident about saying yes.

Tips to Get Approved Faster

Write a Simple Explanation Letter to Your Landlord

A short, honest letter goes a long way. It does not need to be long. Three to five sentences is enough. Tell the landlord what happened. Tell them how things are different now. Tell them you are ready to be a good tenant.

Here is an example: “I had an eviction in 2022 because I lost my job during a hard time. I have since found stable work and been paying all my bills on time. I want to rent this apartment and I am ready to show you that I am reliable.” That is it. Simple. Honest. Effective.

Offer a Higher Security Deposit or a Co-Signer

A higher security deposit reduces a landlord’s risk. If your credit is low or your eviction is recent, offer to pay an extra month’s rent upfront. This shows good faith. It tells the landlord you are serious and you have the money to back it up.

A co-signer is someone with good credit who agrees to be responsible if you cannot pay. This could be a parent, sibling, or close friend. Not everyone has this option, but if you do, it can open many doors that might otherwise stay closed.

Use a Second Chance Apartment Locator Service

A second chance apartment locator is a professional who knows exactly which buildings in Cleveland and Akron are currently accepting renters with bad credit, evictions, or criminal records. They have private lists. They can save you weeks of searching and rejection.

Some locators charge a small fee. Others are free if the landlord pays the finder’s fee. Search for “second chance apartment locators Cleveland OH” or “second chance housing locator Akron” to find one near you.

Ohio Laws and Tenant Rights You Should Know

How Long Does an Eviction Stay on Your Record in Ohio?

In Ohio, an eviction stays on your rental record for seven years from the date it was filed. However, if the eviction was for non-payment and you have proof that you paid the full balance owed, you may be able to get it removed after five years.

Evictions do not appear directly on your credit report. But if you owed money to the landlord and it went to collections, that collection account can show on your credit for up to seven years. Pay off old rental debts when possible. This helps both your credit and your rental history.

Ohio’s Fair Chance Act and What It Means for Renters

Ohio’s Fair Chance Act focuses mostly on employment, but it sets an important tone. It limits when and how criminal history can be used to deny someone a job. While housing laws are separate, Ohio courts and housing advocates are pushing for similar protections in renting.

Several cities in Ohio have local source of income protections, meaning landlords cannot refuse to rent to someone just because they use a housing voucher. Knowing your rights helps you stand up for yourself if a landlord acts unfairly.

How to Seal or Expunge a Record in Ohio

Ohio law allows some criminal records to be sealed or expunged. Sealing means the record is hidden from most public searches. Expungement means the record is permanently erased. Both can help you qualify for housing.

You may be eligible to seal a record if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or enough time has passed since your conviction. Ohio expanded its expungement laws in recent years, covering more offenses than before. Contact a local legal aid organization or Ohio Legal Help at ohiolegalhelp.org for free guidance on how to apply.

Where to Search for Second Chance Rentals in Cleveland and Akron

Online Platforms and Listing Sites That Work

Several websites list second chance rentals in Cleveland and Akron. Try these platforms and use specific search terms to find flexible landlords.

On Zillow and Apartments.com, filter by price range and look for listings that say “all credit welcome,” “bad credit ok,” or “flexible requirements.” On Craigslist, search under “apartments and housing for rent” and type “second chance” or “eviction ok” in the search bar. Facebook Marketplace has many private landlords posting directly. Many are open to second chance renters because they want to fill units fast.

Also look for listings that have been posted for 30 days or more. A landlord who has not rented the unit in a month is usually much more open to working with you.

Local Nonprofits and Housing Assistance Programs

Cleveland and Akron have strong nonprofit networks that help people with rental challenges. CHN Housing Partners in Cleveland offers housing counseling and connects renters with flexible landlords. Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority (AMHA) runs affordable housing programs and can point you to second chance resources.

Community Legal Aid in both cities offers free legal help for renters. If you need help understanding a lease, dealing with an unfair landlord, or knowing your rights, contact them. Their services are free and they know Ohio housing law well.

How to Spot Landlords Willing to Negotiate

There are signs in a listing that tell you a landlord is open to second chance renters. Look for phrases like “will work with your situation,” “income-based approval,” “flexible on background,” or “case by case review.” These phrases signal that the landlord is not using strict screening software.

Also look for smaller buildings. A landlord who owns four to eight units usually makes decisions personally. Call them. Introduce yourself. Ask if they are open to applicants with rental history challenges. A friendly, honest conversation can move you ahead of other applicants.

How to Rebuild Your Rental History After Approval

Paying Old Rental Debt to Improve Your Profile

Once you get approved and move in, start cleaning up your past. Paying off old rental debt is one of the best things you can do for your future. If you owed money to a past landlord, call them or their collection agency. Set up a payment plan. Get everything in writing. Once paid, ask for a letter confirming the debt is cleared.

This letter will be gold for your next application. It shows that you did not run from your past. You faced it. You fixed it. Landlords respect that deeply.

Using Rent Reporting Services to Boost Your Credit

Every month you pay rent on time is a chance to build your credit. Rent reporting services like Rental Kharma, RentTrack, and Boom report your monthly rent payments to the major credit bureaus. Over 12 months of on-time payments, your credit score can rise by 40 to 100 points.

A rising credit score opens more doors. It makes it easier to qualify for better apartments in the future. It also helps you qualify for lower insurance rates and other financial products. Starting this service early, even in your first month of a new lease, gives you a real head start.

Building a Strong Reference for Your Next Lease

Your current landlord is your most valuable reference. Treat your tenancy with care. Pay rent on time every month. Keep your unit clean. Report maintenance issues respectfully. Communicate clearly if something comes up.

After six to twelve months of being a great tenant, ask your landlord if they would write a reference letter for you. A strong landlord reference can overcome a weak credit score or an older eviction on future applications. It is one of the most powerful tools you can build over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent an apartment in Cleveland with an eviction on my record?

Yes, you can. Many second chance apartments in Cleveland, Ohio accept applicants with past evictions. Your chances improve if the eviction is more than two years old and you can show steady income today. Paying off any balance owed to the past landlord also helps a lot.

Do second chance apartments in Akron accept felonies?

Many do, especially for non-violent felony convictions. Felon-friendly apartments in Akron review each case individually. They look at how long ago the conviction happened, what type of offense it was, and whether you have been staying out of trouble. A felony from three or more years ago is much easier to work with.

What credit score do I need for a second chance apartment in Ohio?

Most second chance landlords in Ohio accept credit scores as low as 500. Some do not check credit at all and focus only on income. If your score is below 500, be prepared to offer a higher deposit or bring a co-signer. Showing stable income is more important than your score in most second chance situations.

Are there no credit check apartments in Cleveland?

Yes, they exist. No credit check apartments in Cleveland are usually offered by private landlords who focus on income verification instead. You can find them through Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and local second chance apartment locators. These listings may not be public, so calling landlords directly often works better than browsing listing sites.

How much extra deposit will I need to pay?

This varies by landlord. Many second chance landlords ask for an extra half month to one full extra month of rent as an additional security deposit. So for a $750/month apartment, expect to have $750 to $1,500 available for deposits beyond the first month’s rent. Some landlords accept a risk fee instead of a large deposit. Always ask upfront so there are no surprises.

Can I find second chance apartments under $1,000 in Cleveland or Akron?

Absolutely. Second chance apartments under $1,000 in Cleveland are available in many neighborhoods, especially on the west side and in nearby suburbs like Parma and Garfield Heights. In Akron, a one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment under $1,000 is very common. Search early, move fast, and have your documents ready. Affordable second chance units go quickly because demand is high.

Conclusion

Your past does not have to follow you forever. Cleveland and Akron are cities built on hard work, resilience, and second chances. The path to a new home starts with one step. Gather your documents. Search the areas in this guide. Be honest with landlords. Show them who you are today. A safe, stable home is within your reach, and you are closer to it than you think.