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How to Get a Rental Property Faster

September 2, 2021
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It’s so frustrating to search for rental properties, submit applications and continually get rejected. So how can you go from loser to winner in the rental market?

You can’t control what property managers and landlords do (or rival tenants, for that matter). But what you can control is how the gatekeepers perceive your actions.

When you deal with property managers and landlords, your actions need to send five clear messages:

  1. You’re a responsible person
  2. You would pay the rent on time
  3. You would look after the property
  4. You would be a good neighbour
  5. You would be easy to deal with

The more you impress the gatekeepers, the more likely they will be to open the gate.

Looking for property is like looking for a job

The process that property managers and landlords go through to choose tenants is like the process that recruiters and employers go through to hire staff. So, tenants should arm themselves with a list of questions to ask the real estate agent when renting a new place.

Landlords, like employers, try to identify the person they believe will make them the most money in the long run.

A profitable tenant is one who will maximise a landlord’s income (by paying rent on time) and minimise their expenses (by taking care of their property).

All things being equal, landlords also prefer tenants they believe will stick around for the long term, for two reasons:

  • Landlords must pay money to advertise for tenants
  • They lose money every day their property lies empty

Pretend you’re attending a job interview

That’s why you should treat property managers and landlords with the same professionalism you would treat recruiters and employers:

  • Be friendly
  • Speak articulately
  • Return calls quickly
  • Be prepared to sell yourself (like in a job interview)

Speaking of interviews – when you attend inspections, dress nicely and give the property manager / landlord the respect they deserve. Smile, shake their hand and ask meaningful questions. The more charming and memorable you are, the more likely they will be to give you the property.

You should also have payslips, bank statements and references ready to go. That way, you will make it as easy as possible for them to accept your application.

Property managers and landlords have a financial interest in securing tenants as quickly as possible, so speed matters.

Improve your negotiating position

“So, have you applied for any other jobs?”

Recruiters and employers often ask this question. Why? Because if you turn out to be a desirable candidate, they need to know how hard to pursue you to stop you going elsewhere.

That’s why smart job hunters are always ready to talk about the great job they just applied for or the fantastic interview they just attended.

Similarly, when looking for a rental property, you should always be able to reel off the addresses and features of rival properties.

Always think one step ahead

Whenever you attend an inspection, pretend like you’re auditioning for the next one.

Today’s property might not be for you – either because you don’t like it or the gatekeeper prefers a rival tenant.

But don’t forget that property managers and landlords often have multiple properties; and don’t forget that property managers and landlords know other property managers and landlords.

So if you make a positive impression, they might offer you another home or refer you to one of their friends. It doesn’t hurt to keep your real estate agents close.

Soho
Soho is your expert team in Australian real estate, offering an innovative platform for effortless property searches. With deep insights into buying, renting, and market trends, we guide you to make informed decisions, whether it's your first home or exploring new suburbs.
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