I think southwood properties has some sort of thing where they can take an extra deposit and just call it some sort of made up fee. One final thought - I know you’d both hate to do it this way but, you can always apply and not put him on the lease. Surely you’ll get evicted or something if caught but you did say you’re getting desperate which to me - implies that if you don’t find something soon this may actually turn into an emergency situation for you guys.

Best of luck man I’m so sorry you’re in this horrible situation. Honestly you may not be able to get approved with any of the companies around here and if that’s the case and you can’t find a private owner to rent to you - you may have to move. Literally uproot your whole lives hopefully transfer with work and if not lose your job, probably most of your belongings in the process of an out of state or area move due to cost and it becoming a sudden emergency and worse. It’s a story we’re hearing more and more.

I truly mean that when I say best of luck! Start talking with him now about possibly leaving the area and start making a plan for it (not to do) just in case you can’t work something out. You do NOT want the first time you look into to be when shit hits the fan.

Aside from all that there may be a room for rent or a roommate looking also. You can check Facebook marketplace, Craigslist, and then I think there’s an apps for roommates also. Best wishes. I’m sorry you have to fear over a basic human necessity.