My four kids may have no choice but to live in a car
I can't find a rental because I'm a 'high-risk' tenant - also known as a single mum. (File photo)
I'm a single working mother of four children aged 11, 7, 4 and 18 months. I have been looking for somewhere for us to live for the last six months - not because I can't afford our current rent, but because the property is being sold.
I have been turned down for every house I've applied for. All the agents and landlords can say is I'm seen as 'high risk' for the property.
What does that even mean? I'm employed and have a clean history, I pay rent on time and keep the property in top shape. I have even given up our beloved pet dog to try and make my family and I more appealing to landlords.
I don't see how a five-bedroom property is more suitable for a 'double income no kids' kind of tenant.
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I have even resorted to trying to get a caravan or cabin at camping grounds yet there are none available because others are in the same position as me.
I have also tried getting a home loan but unfortunately I don't meet the banks' criteria.
At this rate my children and I will have no choice but to live in the car like so many others are forced to do.
Something needs to be done. Whether it's building more houses or the banks making it easier for those in my situation to get a loan to buy or even build their own home.
The stress of providing food, clothing and stable environment is bad enough, but without a roof over our heads I don't know how my children are going to cope.
- Stuff Nation
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