The best way to deal with an eviction is tofight itbefore youre forced to leave your home.

Not everyone who fights will win, though.

And after youre evicted, the nightmare isnt over.

A woman stands on a house that’s sinking underwater in this photo illustration.

Faced with losing your home? Here are four ways tofight an eviction.

Is There a Permanent Record of My Eviction?

Yes, there will be a permanent record of your eviction.

If your case made it to court, it will show up in civil court records.

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Usually, information falls off of this report after seven years.

No Interest Til Almost 2027?

However, if your landlord has been reporting late rent to the credit bureaus, that will show up.

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If the landlord is a large property management company, they are particularly likely to check.

But its not impossible to rent after you have a negative item on your rental history, says Kaysee-Saydee.

Some landlords will allow you to explain your eviction situation.

If youre willing to pay a higher security deposit, they may still be willing to let you lease.

Did you know?

Many people who have experienced an eviction move in with family for a while for right their finances.

This gives you time to save up for that initial security deposit.

Pay Rent

Yes, youre staying with friends or family to save money.

This paperwork can be used to demonstrate your responsibility to potential landlords further down the line.

Work on Your Credit

Negative line items will fall off your credit report within seven years.

But you dont necessarily have to wait that long.

If youre able, attempt to make financial amends with the landlord who evicted you.

Once youve started to make good on your arrangement, you could write a goodwill letter.

you could attempt the same process for your rental history report.

The landlord is not under a legal obligation to grant your request.

But its worth a shot.

If youre on good terms, you’re free to ask them for a letter of reference.

The fact that the person who evicted you is vouching for your character can go a long way.

Kaysee-Saydee says most landlords will want to see at least three months of paystubs.

Build in a buffer for this three-month period when you are discussing living arrangements with your interim host.

Having a cosigner could also help you dodge increased security deposits in some instances.

They will need to have a clean record and be able to prove their income.

Your cosigner is taking on financial responsibility should you fall short on rent.

Its a big responsibility, and not everyone you ask will be willing or able to take it on.

Coming Out On the Other Side of an Eviction

Losing your home is a traumatic experience.

you could speed up the recovery process by being proactive both before and after the eviction.

Find a friend or family member who can offer you a place to stay for a while.

While youre there, actively take steps to improve your financial situation.

This will undoubtedly still be a difficult time in your life.

But taking active steps to improve what you might makes a comeback a whole lot more likely.

She is a regular contributor to The Penny Hoarder.