Moving is a big step, whether an individual intends on purchasing a home or renting a house or apartment. There are multiple procedures needed for either of these processes, but certain factors can make these dreams less likely to be obtainable. Criminal records, while not a definite factor in being accepted for a home or apartment, can make it especially difficult.
Most people rely on mortgages when buying a home since it is such an expensive purchase to make out of pocket. These lenders, whether private mortgages or banks, will normally perform criminal background checks both on you and your spouse. When reviewing an application, those with criminal records, specifically ones related to financial issues like fraud or theft, are more likely to be denied than those without them.
Before hitting this bump along the road, those with similar criminal records are also more likely to be denied by insurance companies when applying for a home insurance policy. Home insurance policies are often a requirement before receiving a loan from any mortgage lender, and as they review a criminal record, it becomes significantly more difficult for someone to achieve their dream of buying a home.
If choosing the option of renting rather than buying, a criminal record can continue to be a hurdle without a Canadian pardon. While there are no insurance agencies or mortgage lenders to perform a background check, it is considered routine for one to be done by a landlord, and it is legal to be refused an apartment due to criminal records.
However, this is still not a deciding factor. Some landlords are understanding towards those who can prove they are actively attempting to turn things around and distance themselves from the mistakes of their past. If you provide evidence that you can make payments with a consistent job and portray a positive character, then there is always the chance something will turn up, but it is still much harder.
To defuse these struggles altogether, you have the option to pursue a Canadian Pardon (also known as a Record Suspension), effectively sealing criminal records from the public. This means that any landlords, mortgage lenders, or insurance companies will be unable to see past crimes.
Obtaining a pardon can also provide other benefits, such as earning a license or finding a job among other processes that require background checks. There are certain restrictions and requirements that determine eligibility for this pardon, however, and certain crimes are unpardonable. Therefore, it is recommended to determine if you are eligible before beginning the process itself.
Attempting to buy a house or rent an apartment are hefty processes on their own, but having a criminal record makes both even more difficult, as the chances for rejection grow higher. To solve this issue, it is recommended that those eligible begin the application process for a Canadian Pardon, lessening their stressors and blocking their criminal records from any background checks. By removing these barriers from the past, you will be able to put your best foot forward and seek a better future.