How to Turn Your Rent Payments Into a Down Payment—Without Changing Apartments

If you’re renting, you’re probably already paying the equivalent of a mortgage—but you’re not getting credit for it. Literally.

Here’s the truth: most rent payments don’t show up on your credit report. That means you could be paying $24,000 a year and still get denied for a mortgage because your score is “too thin.”

But there’s a fix—and it could change your timeline to homeownership.

Step 1: Start Rent Reporting

Rent reporting services like RentTrack, LevelCredit, or Experian Boost can link to your bank account and report on-time rent payments to the credit bureaus.

In some cases, landlords can opt-in and report for you.

Why it matters:

• You build credit history faster

• Some buyers see their scores rise 40–70 points in 6 months

• Lenders see you as “mortgage-ready”

Step 2: Use That History to Qualify for Better Rates

Once rent shows up on your credit report:

• You’re more likely to get conventional loan approvals

• You can potentially lower your interest rate

• You strengthen your case if you have limited credit cards or auto loans

Even better? Some lenders now allow rent history as proof of payment capacity, even without traditional credit.