Renting in Rockford? Prepare to Write One of These

Is it me? Do I smell? Why am I having the hardest time finding a place to rent in Rockford? I know you've heard me rant about this before but over the weekend I ran into a new; interesting rental road block.  I responded to an ad on Trulia and got a response from the homeowner, due to an "overwhelming response from interested parties" I had to basically write an essay explaining why I should even be considered to look at the house.

I've only heard of this one other time, and that was when my best friend had to write a letter to accompany her offer on a home that she was buying; luckily she appealed to the seller's emotions and her offer was chosen over the others.

If you're anything like me and you're looking to rent a nice home, in a nice neighborhood, be prepared to receive something similar to this request:

Because I really wanted this place, I did respond and I did look at the house yesterday but I didn't get it...because I have two dogs. Ugh. But, I think this is a really great idea for homeowners that are looking for long term, trustworthy renters. It helps weed out the "bad eggs", riff-raff and less serious inquiries. Ultimately, it's their property and it's up to them to find someone who will take care of their home just like it was their own.

As for me, the quest continues. If you know someone who has a 3 bedroom house with a fenced in backyard and a two car garage for rent, and accepts pets (even with an additional deposit or higher rent), please let me know.