Some people lettting out property specify that the future tenant must be employed, retired etc. This is often to protect the neighbours from leaving their neighbours or neighbourhood friends with badly behaved people who might not only be a pain for the neighbours but then do a runner after failing to pay the rent.
That's not you. You are just a sufferer from the system.
i agree that you should not pay so much up-front or find a guarantor.
Can't think of a better answer than bedknobs but you might have to subscribe to the local paper if your move is long-distance. Maybe move into B/B while you are seeking a rental from the local paper.
Get as many open written personal references as you can for now.
Maybe you contact your future employer, as some can arrange a temporary or "permanent" place to stay.
Good luck potterfan3,
SIQ.