7 Tips For A Successful Rental Application

How can you give yourself the best chance of being a successful applicant? It all starts with creating a winning rental application. 

It is no secret that the rental market is highly competitive at the moment. When attending a property inspection, it is not uncommon to find yourself looking through an apartment with dozens of other eager renters.

Here is what we look for in a SUCCESSFUL application.

 

Correct documentation: The real estate agent should provide you with a list of documents that you need to bring but it can’t hurt to be over-prepared. In most instances, you’ll need:

+ Personal details: Gender, age, number of children, number of pets, smoker status etc

+ 100 points of ID – Suitable forms of identification include passport, citizenship certificate, driver’s licence, Medicare card, birth certificate or healthcare card. 

+ Employment & income: Providing recent payslips and bank statements is essential for your application. It not only shows proof of employment but will also ease any fears a landlord may have over missed payments.

+ Rental history: This includes your current and previous rental information such as the address of the rented premises, lease start and end dates, amount of rent and details of the property owner/manager. The key aspects property managers are looking for are that you paid the rent on time, looked after the property and you were easy to deal with on matters such as repairs or inspections.

+ Reference letters: Positive references are often one of the best ways to get a foot in the door (aim to have two or three). There are generally two types of reference letters; personal and professional. A personal reference might be written by a neighbour, roommate or anyone else who can vouch for your character. Professional letters might come from co-workers, educators, employers, real estate agents or landlords.

Online Application Convenience: Opting for an online application streamlines the process. Once your details are filled in, you can use the same form for multiple property applications.

Prepare Your Housemates: ensure their applications and references are complete.

Punctuality matters: Being punctual is not just a courtesy; it significantly matters. Agents, often working alone during open houses, appreciate applicants who are ready and waiting, showcasing good manners that may be remembered during tenant selection

Present yourself properly: Looking presentable demonstrates your eagerness to secure the property and take the application process seriously. It conveys a sense of responsibility, which is crucial in the eyes of cautious landlords.

Be pleasant – not pushy: Maintaining a pleasant demeanor without being pushy is crucial. If you’re the only people applying to live in the property, this could give you a little extra leeway to ask for property repairs, or a reduction in rent. However, if you’re up against another dozen people, you won’t be in a position to make demands.

Follow up: If you haven’t heard anything 48 hours later, send a follow up to the agent letting them know you’re very interested in the property and happy to provide any additional info they may need.

For any inquiries about renting or to explore our available rental properties, feel free to contact City Beach Properties. We’re here to assist you in navigating the rental landscape and finding your ideal home.