With many young Australians moving out of home and into their own space, searching for a rental property can be a difficult and stressful process. If renting is the right option for you, it is important to consider how to maximise your chances of securing a rental property.
Be Prepared
Even if you have not found a home, it is always better to be prepared. Most Property Managers accept rental applications through 1Form as it is quicker and more efficient for both the Property Manager and future tenants. You should create a profile and fill it in as much as possible before you find a home to save time. Once you find the house you want to enquire for, you can apply as soon as you have finished the inspection. This will make it easier for the Property Manager by providing them with all the information they require from the beginning.
Some important documentation you can prepare in advance include:
- Photo Identification
- Payslips
- Rental Reference
- Prior Rental Ledger (if applicable)
- Pet Reference (if applicable)
- Cover Letter (Note – not many tenants do this, so it is something you can do that makes your application stand out)
QPG Tip – if you are moving in with friends, people you found on social media or FlatMates.com, make sure that everyone has their application ready before attending inspections so no one slows down the process. If someone does not have their applicant finalised in time, it may result in another application being accepted and you missing out.
Find a Guarantor
Having a parent to be a guarantor is something that can be very helpful for those who are casual and have inconsistent hours at their work. This means the guarantor will be on the lease as a financial back up, but they won’t necessarily live there. If your guarantor is someone who has a steady career, income and reputation, it helps significantly if you have no prior rental history.
Inspections
Once you have found the right home for you, contact the Property Manager and schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Try and organise the inspection for the earliest day that all applicants are available to inspect the property to avoid delaying the process and other groups viewing the property before you.
First Impressions
First impressions are very important as you only have one chance at making it! When you attend the inspection, be sure to make a good first impress by being polite, respectful and enthusiastic. By having a friendly discussion with the Property Manager at the inspection will increase your chances of the Property Manager remembering you and your application. Make sure you are well-presented and dress nicely, rather than over the top. You need to show the Property Manager you are a tidy person so they can see if you present yourself well, you can do the same for the house.
Treat the home as if you already live there so the Property Manger can see if you treat the house and its belongings respectfully. By doing this, it will show the Property Manager that you are good at communicating and respectful to ensure they approve your rental application.
After the inspection, be sure that all applicants submit their application for the rental property online via 1Form, unless the Property Manager states otherwise so time is not wasted!
Communicate
If the Property Manager has not contacted you within 2 business days, contact them. By following up, it shows your interest and willingness to live in the property.