Find a Home.
Rebuild Your Life.
FreshStart Housing connects people with felony records to landlords who believe in second chances — with real listings, legal guidance, and community support.
Featured Listing
2BR Apartment — Atlanta, GA
Background-check friendly · $950/mo
How It Works
A simple, dignified path from search to signed lease.
Search Listings
Browse thousands of reentry-friendly rentals filtered by state, price, and amenities.
Apply with Confidence
Our guides help you prepare your application and explain your rights as a tenant.
Connect with Landlords
Message open-minded landlords directly who have opted in to work with returning citizens.
Move In & Thrive
Access ongoing support, community resources, and job placement partners.
Why FreshStart?
Built specifically for returning citizens — not an afterthought.
Know Your Rights
Understand fair housing laws and protections that apply to people with criminal records.
Location Filters
Search by proximity to parole offices, public transit, and employment centers.
Peer Community
Connect with others who've navigated reentry housing and share advice.
Legal Aid Partners
Free referrals to housing attorneys and tenant rights organizations.
Job Board
Integrated listings from employers who hire returning citizens.
24/7 Helpline
Real humans available to answer your housing questions any time.
Free Resources
Knowledge is power. Access our library of guides built for returning citizens.
Tenant Rights for People with Records
A plain-language guide to your rights under the Fair Housing Act and HUD guidelines.
Read guide →FinanceRental Assistance Programs
Federal and state programs that can help cover deposits and first month's rent.
Read guide →CommunityReentry Housing Checklist
Step-by-step checklist to prepare your rental application and gather documents.
Read guide →Real Stories
People just like you found housing and rebuilt their lives.
"After 6 years inside, I thought I'd never find a place. FreshStart connected me with a landlord who gave me a real shot. I've been in my apartment for 8 months now."
Marcus T.
Houston, TX
"The legal guide alone saved me from signing a bad lease. I knew my rights and the landlord respected that. This site is a lifeline."
Deja R.
Chicago, IL
"I was sleeping in my car. Within two weeks of using FreshStart, I had a signed lease and a job lead. I can't thank this community enough."
James W.
Phoenix, AZ
Start Your Search
Tell us a bit about yourself and we'll match you with available listings and resources in your area.
