1099 won't qualify me for an apartment

[Dan Stewart]

Hey Guys,

So I have been working for myself and other the past 10 years. I make 95% of my money during the summer. I am either 1099 by people or get paid cash under the table which I put towards my business. I also have been investing in stocks since my dad bought me my first stock at 1 years old. I can't remember the last time I received a w2. I have been living with my parents and friends ever since I got out of college. I have a charter fishing job on Lake St. Clair in Michigan that takes 7 months and I need to move closer to the lake because I am currently 1 hour and 10 minutes away. After running doubles and triples last summer, the last thing I want to do is make that drive again. 

I have started looking at 12 month leases apartments but everyone wants w2s which I don't have. When I tell them I make most my money throughout the summer they won't buy it. I could buy a house right now with cash. However, I plan on moving in the next few years up north and don't feel it would be a great investment right now with the market so high. I also want to buy a vacation rental home with the cash I have saved. I could get another job but I still wouldn't make the required amount of money apartments need. 

What do people do who own their own businesses to get apartments? 

Thanks for any advice!

[Aaron Treloar]

Use your tax returns instead of just the 1099.  This is how I income-qualify people in your situation.