So you’re trying to find a new rental property and feeling the pinch of the competitive rental market in Australia? Wondering how to make your rental application stand out? Well, a solid rental reference letter is your best bet. Not only does it provide testimony to your reliability as a tenant, but it also gives property managers the confidence they need to hand over the keys.
In this discourse, we’ll unravel what a rental reference letter is, how to write one, and even provide a handy template. This guide will give you the upper hand when navigating through rental properties. So, strap in, and let’s get started!
What is a rental reference letter?
A rental reference letter, also known as a landlord reference letter, is a document written by a previous landlord or property manager. It testifies to a tenant’s ability to maintain a rental unit, pay rent on time, and follow property rules. If you’ve rented property before, you’d know it plays a critical role in helping landlords and property managers decide who will get the lease.
What is in a rental reference letter?
A formal letter formatting
A rental letter needs to be professional. Start with the date, contact details of the recipient, and a formal greeting.
A detailed relationship with the tenant
Make it clear who you are and how you know the tenant. Did they rent a property from you? For how long? Be specific.
Comment on tenants’ reliability and conduct
This is where you delve into the tenant’s behaviour. Were the rental payments made on time? Were there any complaints? The more details, the better.
Share details of rental property tenure
Outline the period the tenant stayed at the rented property. Dates provide context to the property manager.
Provide contact information for follow-up
Lastly, don’t forget to sign off with your contact information. This gives them a chance to hit you up with any questions afterward.
Practical tips for crafting a convincing rental reference letter
Highlight positive aspects explicitly
Focus on what made the tenant a real treasure to have around. Positive personal references on your rental application can really tip the scales in your favour.
Maintain professionalism and honesty
And don’t forget, honesty is the best policy. No one’s going to thank you for chucking in a few tall tales. Keep it fair and professional.
Ensure the letter is brief and focused
No one wants to read a novel. Make sure that letter is short and sweet, straight to the point, and all about the tenant’s rental history.
Rental reference letter template
Sample rental reference letter
Access this template from the official Queensland government site
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to rent an apartment?
Ever wonder what documents do I need to rent an apartment? Renting an apartment in Australia usually requires a few essential documents. Snagging a rental in Australia usually requires a couple of must-have documents.
The landlord needs to feel confident that you will pay the rent on time. That means bringing in some proof of income, like your latest payslips or tax returns, to prove you can handle the rent.
Next, photo identification – a driver’s license or passport should do the trick. Finally, rental reference letters, especially those from previous landlords, are crucial to bolster your application.
These letters provide a snapshot of your behaviour as a former tenant and your ability to maintain a rental property.
How can I make my rental application stand out?
If you are asking the question, “How to make my rental application stand out in a competitive rental market?”. Well, first things first, you want your application to be the one that grabs the property manager’s attention. First, make sure to provide all required documents promptly and follow the application instructions to the letter. A well-detailed rental reference letter from a previous landlord or property manager can make your application shine.
Remember, this letter is your chance to show prospective landlords that you’re reliable, respectful, and a top-notch tenant. Also, personal touches help. A brief introduction about who you are and why you’re interested in the property can make you more memorable.
Can a friend write a rental reference letter?
Usually, rental reference letters should come from someone you’ve had a professional relationship with, like a former landlord or property manager. That’s because they can give a spot-on and truthful rundown of your behaviour as a tenant.
But, if you’re a freshie in the rental world or don’t have an old landlord, no dramas, a mate could whip up a character reference letter for you. This letter should hone in on the qualities that show you’re a decent individual and a top pick for a tenant.
How do previous landlords influence my rental application?
Your previous landlords carry a fair bit of clout in the rental application game. They can back you up, vouching for your trustworthiness, your knack for following property rules, and your track record of paying the rent on the dot. A thumbs-up from them can boost your odds in this tight rental market; no worries.
What should I do if my former tenant requests a rental reference letter?
If you’re the landlord and your old tenant is asking for a rental reference letter, it’s a fair dinkum move to provide. Just stick to the truth and talk about their time on your property.
Your letter could be the key to them securing a new pad. So, that’s the lot! With your rental reference letter all sorted, you’re just a hop, skip and jump away from clinching that dream rental.
