When a credit score falls short, the first option that comes to mind is a cosigner. Simply put, a cosigner is someone who promises to take responsibility if the tenant fails to pay rent. Often, parents or siblings take on this role, and it's important to know that the cosigner's credit and income will also be evaluated, making preparation much easier. In Arlington, it's common to see international students with low credit scores finalize contracts by having their parents act as cosigners.

In Texas, there is a distinction between a cosigner and a guarantor. A cosigner signs the lease agreement and shares equal responsibility with the tenant, while a guarantor signs a separate guarantee document and is only responsible if the tenant breaches the contract. If the terminology is unfamiliar, think of a cosigner as someone who shares the burden from the start, while a guarantor only steps in when issues arise.

The typical credit standard in the Texas area, including Arlington, is around a 650 score. To put it simply, if your score is above 650, you can usually pass the screening process without issues, and a score above 700 gives you an advantage even for higher-end properties.

Texas state law does not prevent landlords from denying applications based on credit scores. In other words, if your score is low, management companies can refuse your application at their discretion, which is why a cosigner or guarantor may be necessary. If the terminology is new to you, understand that since the screening criteria are not lenient, it's safer to prepare alternative options in advance.

Looking at rental prices, the average rent for a one-bedroom in Arlington is around $1,148 (RentHop, 2026). Applying the income screening criteria (about three times the rent), you would need a pre-tax monthly income of approximately $3,444 to pass the standard conditions. Compared to nearby cities like Dallas or Fort Worth, Arlington's rent is relatively low, making it easier to meet the income requirements.

If finding a cosigner or guarantor is difficult, there are other options. The most common method is to pay an additional deposit, as Texas law does not set a cap on security deposits, allowing management companies to request one or two months' rent as extra. Joining rental guarantee insurance like The Guarantors or Insurent is another option, with costs ranging from 4.5% to 10% of the annual rent. For international students or recent immigrants who find it hard to secure a cosigner, this insurance can serve as a practical alternative.

Here's a checklist of items to verify in order: First, whether the property you are applying for accepts cosigners or only guarantors. Second, the minimum credit score required for the cosigner or guarantor. Third, whether it's possible to substitute with an additional deposit. These three factors can vary by property, so it's advisable to directly contact the management company for confirmation before applying.

Texas law sets the deadline for returning security deposits at 30 days after move-out, and landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear. If you're looking into school districts of interest for Korean families near Arlington, be sure to check the GreatSchools ratings as well. While Texas has the advantage of no state income tax, it's also important to note that property tax rates are relatively high. If you're coming from another state, be aware that living costs may feel higher than expected, so it's recommended to calculate expenses beyond just rent.

It's also beneficial to know how to improve your credit score on your own. By consistently paying rent and credit card bills on time for over six months and keeping your utilization low, you increase your chances of passing the screening process without a cosigner in your next contract.

This information is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult with a professional before finalizing any contracts.