If you’re searching for second chance apartments in Memphis, you’re not alone. Whether you have bad credit, an eviction, a broken lease, or a criminal record, there are property managers in Memphis who will consider your application—especially if you prepare the right documents and present a strong case. This guide breaks down how it all works in 2025: where to look, how to apply, what to expect, your rights in Tennessee, and practical tips to get approved.
What Are Second Chance Apartments?
Second chance apartments are rental properties that welcome applicants with challenging backgrounds. Unlike traditional apartment complexes that might automatically reject anyone with blemishes on their record, these communities take a more holistic approach to evaluating potential tenants.
These properties understand that credit scores, evictions, broken leases, and even criminal records don’t tell the whole story of who you are today. They’re willing to look beyond the numbers and consider your current situation, income stability, and commitment to being a responsible tenant.
Top 10 Second-Chance Apartments in Memphis
1. The Sylvia Apartments
Address: 1512 Court Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: 901-276-3607
Details: The Sylvia Apartments consider applicants with older evictions (usually over 5 years). Applicants should have proof of steady income, typically three times the rent amount.
2. Cottonwood Apartments
Address: 4653 Cotton Dr, Memphis, TN 38118
Phone: 901-360-8400
Details: A well-known second-chance property in East Memphis. They review applications individually and often approve renters with previous credit or rental issues.
3. Summit Park Apartments
Address: 1770 Piping Rock Dr, Memphis, TN 38116
Phone: 901-332-0472
Details: This complex evaluates past evictions on a case-by-case basis. Ideal for tenants who can show financial stability and strong rental references.
4. Winbranch Apartments
Address: 3551 Dalebranch Dr, Memphis, TN 38116
Phone: 901-345-1745
Details: Known for flexible approval policies and affordable rent. Applicants with older evictions or limited credit history may still qualify.
5. Garden View Apartments
Address: 1121 Whitaker Cv, Memphis, TN 38116
Phone: 901-398-2122
Details: Advertises “No Credit Check” and a “Second Chance Program.” A good option for renters rebuilding their history, offering one- and two-bedroom units.
6. Ashland Lakes Apartments
Address: 5505 Fog Hollow Ln, Memphis, TN 38134
Phone: 901-755-0349
Details: Listed as an eviction-friendly community. This complex offers flexible approval criteria and is located in a quiet, family-friendly area.
7. Levi Landing Apartments
Address: 745 West Levi Rd, Memphis, TN 38109
Phone: 901-785-5840
Details: Often accepts applicants with past evictions or credit issues. They focus more on current employment and ability to pay rent consistently.
8. Eton Square Apartments
Address: 3315 Ridgeway Rd, Memphis, TN 38115
Phone: 901-546-9800
Details: A large, well-maintained property that has appeared on “no credit check” and “evictions OK” lists. Offers spacious units with reasonable rent.
9. Owens Place Apartments
Address: 291 Elders Row Dr, Memphis, TN 38109
Phone: 901-528-9090
Details: Known for working with tenants who have rental challenges. Applicants must show proof of income and a willingness to rebuild credit.
10. Mid South Best Rentals
Address: Memphis, TN (various properties across the metro area)
Phone: Available on their website or through office inquiry
Details: A rental agency managing hundreds of Memphis properties. They consider applicants with low credit scores but expect positive rental references and consistent income.
Tips for Getting Approved
- Be honest about your rental history and explain past issues clearly.
- Provide pay stubs, employment letters, or bank statements to show financial stability.
- Offer to pay a larger deposit if possible — it shows commitment.
- Get a co-signer or personal reference to strengthen your application.
- Stay polite and professional when speaking with leasing staff — attitude matters.
How the Second Chance Process Works
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
Applying for a second chance apartment is similar to applying for any rental, with a few key differences:
Step 1: Research Your Options
Start by identifying second chance properties in Memphis. Look for apartments that specifically advertise flexible screening, willingness to work with bad credit, or second chance leasing. You can search online, call properties directly, or work with a local housing advocate.
Step 2: Be Honest Upfront
When you call or visit a property, be transparent about your situation. Let them know about your eviction, credit issues, or whatever challenge you’re facing. This saves everyone time and helps you find landlords who are truly willing to work with you.
Step 3: Gather Your Documentation
Prepare all necessary documents before you apply. Having everything ready shows you’re organized and serious about securing the apartment.
Step 4: Fill Out the Application
Complete the rental application thoroughly and accurately. Any discrepancies or dishonesty can result in automatic rejection, even from second chance properties.
Step 5: Write an Explanation Letter
This is your chance to tell your story. Explain what happened in your past, what you’ve learned, and why you’ll be a great tenant now. Keep it honest, concise, and forward-looking.
Step 6: Follow Up
After submitting your application, follow up within a few days. This shows initiative and genuine interest in the property.
Step 7: Review Lease Terms Carefully
If approved, read every word of your lease before signing. Make sure you understand deposit requirements, rent due dates, late fees, and all other terms.
Documents You’ll Need
Having your paperwork organized can significantly speed up the application process. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Government-Issued ID: Driver’s license, state ID, or passport
- Proof of Income: Recent pay stubs (usually last 2-3 months), bank statements, tax returns, or offer letter if you’re starting a new job
- Employment Verification: Contact information for your employer or a letter confirming your employment
- Rental History: Previous landlord contact information, even if the relationship ended badly
- References: Personal or professional references who can vouch for your character
- Explanation Letter: Written statement about your background and why you deserve a second chance
- Additional Income Documentation: If applicable, child support, disability benefits, Social Security, or other income sources
Some properties may also request:
- Recent utility bills
- Vehicle information
- Emergency contact information
- Co-signer documentation if using one
Top Neighborhoods for Second Chance Apartments in Memphis
Memphis offers diverse neighborhoods where you’re more likely to find second chance housing opportunities. Each area has its own character, amenities, and price points.
Whitehaven
Located in South Memphis, Whitehaven is one of the most affordable areas to find second chance apartments. This historic neighborhood has seen ups and downs over the years but remains home to many hardworking families. You’ll find numerous apartment complexes here that are willing to work with applicants who have credit challenges or past evictions.
Pros: Affordable rent, good access to shopping and restaurants, several parks and community centers, convenient to I-55 and Highway 51.
Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, aging infrastructure in some parts, limited public transportation options.
Average Rent: Studio to 1-bedroom apartments typically range from $650-$850; 2-bedroom units run $750-$1,000.
Bartlett
Bartlett is a suburb northeast of Memphis with a reputation for good schools and family-friendly neighborhoods. While generally more expensive than areas closer to downtown, you can still find second chance apartments here, particularly in older complexes.
Pros: Highly rated schools, lower crime rates, suburban feel with shopping and dining, strong community vibe.
Cons: Higher rent than Memphis proper, fewer second chance options, less diverse housing stock, car necessary for most errands.
Average Rent: 1-bedroom apartments start around $900-$1,100; 2-bedroom units range from $1,000-$1,400.
Midtown
Midtown is Memphis’s arts and culture hub, home to galleries, restaurants, Overton Square, and the Cooper-Young district. While known for trendier (and pricier) options, you can find second chance apartments in older buildings, especially along major corridors.
Pros: Walkable neighborhood, vibrant cultural scene, diverse community, proximity to hospitals and universities, good public transit access.
Cons: Higher rent than South Memphis, parking can be challenging, some areas have noise issues, gentrification pushing prices up.
Average Rent: 1-bedroom apartments range from $850-$1,200; 2-bedroom units typically cost $1,100-$1,600.
East Memphis
East Memphis is a large area encompassing several neighborhoods from Poplar Avenue to Germantown Parkway. It’s primarily middle-class and upper-middle-class, but older apartment complexes in the area sometimes offer second chance leasing.
Pros: Good schools, lower crime in most areas, excellent shopping and dining, well-maintained neighborhoods, close to major employers.
Cons: Higher cost of living, heavy traffic on main roads, very car-dependent, fewer budget-friendly options.
Average Rent: 1-bedroom apartments start at $900-$1,300; 2-bedroom units range from $1,100-$1,600.
Southaven (Nearby Mississippi Options)
Just south of Memphis across the state line, Southaven, Mississippi, offers additional housing options. Mississippi’s rental market sometimes has different screening standards, and you might find more flexibility here.
Pros: Often lower rent than Memphis, good schools, lower crime rates, growing commercial area with jobs, close to Memphis amenities.
Cons: Need to consider Mississippi tenant laws (which differ from Tennessee), car absolutely necessary, may complicate some Tennessee-based assistance programs.
Average Rent: 1-bedroom apartments range from $750-$1,000; 2-bedroom units typically cost $900-$1,200.
Best Second Chance Apartment Communities in Memphis (2025 Update)
While specific properties change their policies over time, here are some apartment communities in Memphis that have been known to work with applicants who have challenging backgrounds. Always call ahead to confirm current policies.
Garden View Apartments – Whitehaven
Located in the Whitehaven area, Garden View Apartments offers affordable housing with flexible screening criteria. The property features older but well-maintained units with basic amenities.
What They Offer: 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floor plans, on-site laundry, parking, playground.
Second Chance Friendly: Known to work with applicants with past evictions (over 1 year old), low credit scores, and broken leases. May require larger deposit.
Approximate Rent: 1-bedroom from $650, 2-bedroom from $750, 3-bedroom from $875.
Contact: Call ahead to discuss your specific situation and ask about current availability.
Park Ridge Apartments – Parkway Village
Situated in the Parkway Village neighborhood of Southeast Memphis, Park Ridge Apartments has a reputation for giving second chances to qualified applicants who can demonstrate stable income.
What They Offer: 1 and 2-bedroom apartments, some utilities included, on-site maintenance, community events.
Second Chance Friendly: Accepts applications from those with credit challenges and previous rental issues. Requires proof of consistent income and may ask for references.
Approximate Rent: 1-bedroom from $675, 2-bedroom from $800.
Contact: Visit their leasing office or call to inquire about their screening criteria.
Raines Road Apartments
Several apartment complexes along Raines Road in Southeast Memphis are known for flexible screening. These properties typically serve working families looking for affordable housing.
What They Offer: Varies by property, but generally includes basic amenities, parking, and some with pools or fitness centers.
Second Chance Friendly: Many properties along this corridor work with bad credit, past evictions, and first-time renters. Each property has different requirements.
Approximate Rent: Ranges widely from $600-$950 depending on size and specific property.
Contact: Drive along Raines Road and note properties with “Now Leasing” signs, or search online for specific complexes in the area.
Winchester Square Apartments
Located in the Winchester Road area of South Memphis, this community has historically been willing to work with applicants who have less-than-perfect backgrounds.
What They Offer: 1, 2, and 3-bedroom units, on-site management, maintenance, laundry facilities, parking.
Second Chance Friendly: Known to consider applications from those with credit scores below 600 and rental history challenges. Requires income verification and may request larger security deposit.
Approximate Rent: 1-bedroom from $650, 2-bedroom from $775, 3-bedroom from $900.
Contact: Call their leasing office to discuss your situation before applying.
Finding More Options
Beyond these specific properties, you can find additional second chance apartments by:
- Searching Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and local rental sites with terms like “bad credit okay” or “flexible screening”
- Calling properties directly and asking if they offer second chance leasing
- Working with local housing counselors or nonprofit organizations
- Checking with property management companies that handle multiple properties
- Driving through neighborhoods and looking for “For Rent” signs
Remember that policies change, so what’s true today might be different in a few months. Always verify current screening criteria before applying.
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