Many teenagers dream of having their own place as they approach adulthood. However, the legal age to enter into a lease contract is 18 in most areas. In this article, we will explore whether it is possible to rent an apartment at 17 and provide guidance on making it happen.
Can you get an apartment at 17?
Yes, it is technically possible to get an apartment at 17 years old. A 17-year-old can sign a lease agreement and take on the responsibilities of renting their own place. However, most landlords are hesitant to rent to minors due to legal issues that could arise from leasing to someone under the age of majority.
As a minor, a 17-year-old may not be viewed as legally accountable for upholding the terms of the contract. To ease these liability concerns and make themselves a stronger rental candidate, there are a few options available.
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Knowing the Local Housing Laws
The first step is to research the specific housing laws where the 17-year-old will be renting. Age requirements for leasing apartments can vary between states and municipalities. It's important to confirm if local statutes permit 17-year-olds to independently enter into residential lease agreements where they plan to live.
Having this knowledge beforehand can help determine what additional steps may be needed, such as obtaining legal emancipation.
Consider Legal Emancipation
One route is for the 17-year-old to pursue emancipation from their parents or guardians through the court system. Emancipation makes a minor legally recognized as an adult, enabling them to independently sign contracts like a lease. While not easy to achieve, emancipation cuts through issues over a minor's capacity to enter a legally binding lease.
Landlords are generally more open to renting to emancipated 17-year-olds who can be fully responsible parties.
Involve Parents Through Co-Signing
An alternative is obtaining a co-signer, usually a parent or guardian, who is willing to co-sign the lease and accept joint liability for its terms. As a non-minor, the co-signer provides the landlord assurance that someone can be held accountable for upholding the agreement.
Co-signing allows 17-year-olds to enjoy more independence while providing parental protections for all parties involved through the duration of the lease.
Consider Renting with Roommates
Living with roommates who are 18 years or older can strengthen a 17-year-old's rental application. Landlords may feel more comfortable knowing the renter will not be completely alone as a minor.
Roommates help validate the ability to pay rent on time each month. It also offers social and safety advantages for the 17-year-old living away from their family home for the first time.
Thoroughly Review the Lease
If admitted as a tenant, make sure to carefully examine any lease documentation before signing. Whether independently or through a co-signer, take time to understand obligations, policies, and rights as a renter, including procedures for things like repairs, late payments, extensions, and more.
Asking someone experienced, like a parent or property manager, to review it provides assurance nothing is missed before legally committing.
Become Familiar with the Property
While applying, schedule viewings to get a true sense of the unit's condition, building amenities, location, and neighborhood vibe. As a minor, it's important feeling 100% content living in an unfamiliar space alone.
Inspecting various aspects in person allows discerning whether it truly seems suitable for independent living at 17 years old. Positive early impressions go far with landlords.
Conclusion
In summary, while 17-year-olds face barriers to renting apartments, proven paths exist like emancipation, parental co-signing, and renting with older roommates. With thorough preparation and assurances given to concerned landlords, determined teens can overcome age obstacles to land their first leases and enjoy a taste of freedom through responsible independent living before adulthood. Proper planning and reliability are key to success.
