Getting an apartment to rent in Sydney can be a tiring process. While it’s not as tricky as looking for a house for sale in Sydney, many find apartment hunting difficult because of the competitive market, high prices, and the time required for daily searches.
When you want a place to rent, you need to consider landlord requirements, proper identification documents, and possibly proof of income. Here’s what you need to know.
What Should I Consider Before Renting in Sydney?
Living in Sydney and finding a rental there isn’t very different from other capital cities. Here are important considerations.
Price
Just like looking for the best time to sell your home in Sydney, timing can affect both price and what apartments are available. Plan your budget and check if you can manage the price with your paycheck.
Pro tip: The best time to rent in Sydney is over the winter, when the weather is colder and people are less inclined to pack up and move.
Condition
Assess the condition of the apartment. It may look appealing in pictures, but it is crucial to visit the place to check for yourself. Determine if any issues are superficial, and if the apartment is in good condition for your safety and health.
Proprietor
The owner and property manager can be important people in your renting experience. You will need to rely on them when things are not right in your house, so if you have a bad experience with them or you don’t seem to understand each other, you may consider opting for another place.
Neighbourhood
Visit the neighbourhood at different times to understand the community. This way, you will get a clear picture of expectations so that you don’t get surprised by loud noises or other environmental factors.
Contract
Ensure your lawyer or realtor looks at your lease before signing it. The lease should be clear, with no surprises—read it carefully to see that it suits your needs.
Amenities
When renting an apartment, ensure that its amenities suit your lifestyle—for example, if there’s a fitness centre in your building, if the property is gated, or if it has a dishwasher or laundry machine. Depending on what kinds of properties you’re looking at, make sure you understand what you’re getting, even if it means researching things like granny flat requirements in Sydney.
Pet Policy
The lease should indicate a detailed pet policy. Learning about the policy is crucial if you are moving to the house with a pet or planning to get one later, so be sure to find out what kinds of pets are allowed, if there is a pet deposit needed, and whether the deposit is refundable.
How Do I Ensure I Get Approved to Rent?
Be Ready
When meeting the lessor, treat it like an interview—first impressions matter. Dress well, be on time, and bring necessary documents.
References
When applying for an apartment, you should paint yourself in the best picture. Getting a reference, especially from a previous landlord who can state you were a reliable tenant, is crucial. You can also get references from creditors or utility providers to increase the chances of getting approved.
Pet Interview
Some apartments may require renters who have pets to pay extra fees. If the landlord is cautious about allowing pets, you can book an appointment with them for a quick pet interview. In some instances, paying them extra for the pet deposit could increase your chances of getting the apartment.
What if I Have Bad Credit?
Bad credit history can spoil your chances of getting approved. There are a few ways you can get around this, however.
- Ask a family member, friend, or parent to act as consigner: If you fail to pay your bills, they will be held responsible, which could compromise relationships, so talk it through before making this decision.
- Pay more upfront: Paying extra for your security deposit could increase your chances; you can also offer to pay an extra deposit for a month or more.
- Look for landlords who don’t check credit scores: Concentrate on landlords who own their properties, rather than companies that rent numerous buildings.
When looking for an apartment to rent, it is important to demonstrate that you are a reliable client. Endeavour to improve your credit score, and with proper planning and research, you can find your next perfect home.
