GUIDE
Renting With an Old Felony vs. a Recent One
A side-by-side of how apartments treat old vs. recent felony records, which Texas metros and tiers differ, and what recency means for odds.
A side-by-side of how apartments treat old vs. recent felony records, which Texas metros and tiers differ, and what recency means for odds.
What this guide covers
- Side-by-side old vs. recent record treatment
- Which metros and property tiers differ
Background
Compare approval realities by recency. (Renter comparing approval realities based on how recent their record is.)
What matters most
- Side-by-side old vs. recent record treatment. Understanding this piece typically has the largest single effect on approval odds.
- Which metros and property tiers differ. Two identical applicants can get different answers at different properties for this reason.
- What documentation strengthens an application. Preparation cuts down on repeated applications and burned fees.
Honest expectations
We are direct with renters about what this record type does and does not open. Where a situation is a near-universal hard stop, we say so up front rather than collect an application fee. Where a property will genuinely review, we identify it so you spend your one application well.
What to do next
- Pull your own screening report so you know what a landlord will see. See how to check your own background before you apply.
- Line up certified dispositions from the county clerk and any completion documentation.
- Have income verification ready — most Texas apartments want gross monthly income at 3x rent.
- Get a pre-screened shortlist before you apply blind.
Related
RELATED SERVICE
Apartments That Accept Felony Convictions
We match renters with felony convictions to Texas apartments that genuinely review criminal backgrounds instead of auto-declining.
See who reviews this record →Common Questions
Does a recent felony hurt more than an old one?
Usually yes; recency raises scrutiny while older records open options.
Do metros treat felony recency differently?
Yes; management companies and vacancy vary by metro.
When does a felony stop mattering?
No fixed point; older records fall outside strict lookback windows.
Related Guides
Felony Records and Individualized Assessment
The review standard that helps applicants: what individualized assessment weighs, the HUD context, and how to present a full picture.
Read guide →
How Conviction Age Affects Apartment Approval
How time since a conviction changes your odds: lookback windows, the 7-year and 10-year thresholds, and how age interacts with offense type.
Read guide →
Renting With a Nonviolent Felony in Texas
The largest, most reviewable felony segment: how nonviolent classification helps, which Texas properties flex, and what to prepare.
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What a Felony Hard-Stop Looks Like
Honest about near-universal declines: sex offender registry status, active warrants, and pending violent felony charges, and why we say so up front.
Read guide →
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