Finding a rental property can feel overwhelming, particularly in a competitive market. While there’s no guaranteed way to secure your dream home, being organised can help your application stand out.
We’ve put together some practical tips to help make the rental application process a little smoother.
Prepare Your Finances and Documentation
Before you start browsing rental listings, it’s worth taking some time to understand your budget. Knowing how much rent you can comfortably afford will help narrow your search and ensure you’re applying for properties that suit your financial situation.
If your preferred suburb is stretching the budget, consider looking at nearby areas or slightly older properties. A little flexibility can often open up more options without compromising too much on location.
Along with your budget, it’s a good idea to have your paperwork ready before you begin applying. Most property managers will ask for documents such as identification, proof of income and references.
Many agencies now use online application platforms, so having electronic copies of your documents ready to upload can save valuable time. If your employer is likely to be contacted to verify your employment, it’s also worth letting them know they may receive a call.
Be ready before you inspect
Rental properties can move quickly, especially in competitive markets.
Many agencies now use online application platforms such as 2Apply, Snug or Ignite. Completing your profile and uploading your supporting documents before attending inspections means you can submit an application sooner if you find a property you love.
Being prepared can make all the difference when multiple applicants are interested in the same home.
Put You Best Paw Forward
If you’re applying with pets, consider creating a simple pet profile.
Include a recent photo along with details such as your pet’s name, age, breed and temperament. If you’ve rented successfully with your pet before, a reference from a previous landlord can also help strengthen your application.
Rental rules relating to pets vary between states and territories, so it’s worth checking the legislation that applies where you’re looking to rent.
Make a Good First Impression
You can also go the extra mile by making sure you’re well-presented and early for the inspection – treat it like a job interview.
Don’t hesitate to chat to the real estate agent if you can and send them a follow up email. It will help them differentiate you from other applicants and hopefully remember you!
While you’re at the inspection, it’s a good time to get a feel for the place but also have a look for anything you want to ask follow-up questions about. Things like accessibility, if there’s anything that’s being fixed, and other financial aspects like bond deposit fees.
Be Ready to Commit
Rental properties move fast and the market can be very competitive, which is why all the prep leading you up to this point is so important. Once you know everything you need to do to apply, if the place feels right, make sure to get onto your application immediately. Being able to go through references quickly, showing that you can afford rent, and being able to pay the bond deposit and first month’s rent is helpful.
This is something you can mention in your follow up email or phone call to the real estate agent to show you’re committed to the property. However, this step often happens before you get your bond from your current place back and coincides with all of your other moving expenses – we know, it’s frustrating!
If you need help getting from one property to the next with things like bond money, or that extra bit of cashflow that makes it easier to get yourself set up, Rapid Loans offers online personal loans from $2,001 to $45,000 with a simple application and fast turnaround if approved. If you’ve got a move on the cards, contact us online, learn how it works, or simply give us a call today on 1300 727 431 to discuss your options or apply online.
This article is general information only and does not constitute financial or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. When you apply for a loan with Rapid Loans, your application will be assessed against our credit eligibility criteria. All applications are subject to approval. Terms and conditions, fees and charges apply.