how can a 17 yr old rent a flat?

cobbingstones

Hi all

My 17 year old is leaving home in June and would really like to rent a flat. He is working full time and has tried many agencies only to be told 'No'. Their reasoning is that landlords just won't rent out to under 18's or 21's. Although I appreciate this, does anyone know anything to get around this? He was going to rent a house with a couple of mates, but they spend the deposit!

Any ideas welcomed

MM

thesaint

Ask the agencies if they would accept a guarantor.
That way, you would be responsible for him, it works out more expensive intially because of the extra checks needed.

fkelanne

ye could rent it for him, thats the only way i can see around it. also he could try the council see what they say.

kingkano

Dont you need to be 18 to sign a contract??? (ie a lease). Couldnt you get the flat for him? Although you will technically be responsible for it....

pinkshoes

He was going to rent a house with a couple of mates, but they spend the deposit!

and sadly, there you have your answer! I'm afraid estate agents will generalise for ALL 17 year olds and see them as not financially responsible enough. It's not always the case, but i suppose it's just easier for them to generalise!

If you were a landlord, would you rent your property to three 17 year old boys?

cobbingstones

Of course I would Pinkshoes :rotfl:

Thanks everyone

MM

Doozergirl

I do often consider buying a flat for my 20 year old cousin to rent from me, but I can't imagine what he'd do to the place.

I just couldn't rent a flat to a 17 year old boy, even with a guarantor. I think what I was like at that age and I'm a girl! :eek:

pingu79

Perhaps he could look to rent a room in a shared house, a private landlord or owner occupier may be happier to rent to a 17yr old that they have met than an agency. Most students are 18 so can't see why it will be a huge problem for a 17 yr old who is in employment. You'll probably still be required to sign a guarantor form so that if they default you are responsible.

Voyager2002

I suspect that many (most) landlords would change their minds if offered a substantial security deposit. As with so many things, this is something best negotiated directly with the landlord rather than through an agent: try looking at small adds in the local papers to find landlords directly.