At North Star Mortgage Network, we often work with borrowers who don’t have a traditional credit score or who are building credit using alternative methods. In these cases, one of the most important pieces of documentation is a written verification of rent (WVOR). But not all rental history qualifies—and not all documentation is created equal.

Here’s what you need to know to make sure your rent history counts when applying for a mortgage.

When Is a Written Verification of Rent Required?

A written verification of rent is often needed when:

  • The borrower has no credit score
  • The borrower is relying on non-traditional credit sources
  • The borrower’s rent is paid in cash
  • The current landlord is an interested party in the transaction (e.g., selling the property to the borrower)

Cash payments, in particular, lack a verifiable paper trail. In these cases, a standard WVOR—completed and signed by the landlord—is required to prove rental payment history.

Acceptable Documentation for Rental History

To meet underwriting guidelines, a borrower’s rental history must cover the most recent consecutive 12 months. Here are the most commonly accepted forms of documentation:

  • Cancelled Checks showing consistent, monthly rent payments to the landlord.
  • Bank Statements, money orders, or other payment proofs that clearly indicate:
    • The payee
    • The amount paid
    • The payment dates
  • Written verification directly from the landlord, whether an individual or a property management company. This is commonly used in WVOR forms.
  • Credit report rental entries, as long as the report includes full payment history and aligns with underwriting requirements.

Rules for No Score or Non-Traditional Credit Borrowers

If a borrower doesn’t have a credit score, a rental payment history becomes an essential part of proving creditworthiness. Here are some key requirements for those using non-traditional credit:

  • Only one borrower on the loan needs to provide documented rental history to meet the requirement.
  • If two or more borrowers share the lease, that documentation can count as one source of non-traditional credit for each borrower.
  • Third-party verification is required when the landlord is a relative or has a vested interest in the property sale.

What Counts as Non-Traditional Credit?

Non-traditional credit examples include:

  • Rent payments (with written verification of rent)
  • Utility payments (electric, water, gas)
  • Cell phone bills
  • Insurance premiums
  • Streaming or subscription services (if paid regularly)

To use these sources, documentation must show on-time payments for 12 months, with the payee, amount, and borrower’s name clearly indicated.

Final Thoughts from North Star Mortgage

The mortgage process shouldn’t punish those who pay their bills responsibly—even if they don’t use credit cards. At North Star Mortgage Network, we help borrowers navigate the non-traditional path with confidence, making sure every piece of documentation—especially your written verification of rent—meets lender guidelines.

If you’re unsure what your options are or how to provide proof of rent, we’re here to help guide you.

Contact North Star Mortgage Network Today
Let’s talk about your unique situation and make sure you’re getting the credit you deserve—even if you don’t have a score yet.

Your best interest is my principal concern.

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