Writing your own rental application can be a bummer – especially if you don’t know how to go about it. Not to worry! This guide will give you 5 renter hacks to nail your application. This will provide you with invaluable renter hacks that will help you to craft an outstanding application, increasing your chances of securing the rental property you desire.
5 key Aussie renter hacks that will save your life
All Aussies know how challenging it is to get the best rental properties in some locations. If you want to enjoy the grandest of properties at affordable rates, here are some things to always consider that will make your rental application stand out. Below are 5 renter hacks to nail your application.
Be the early bird
If you’ve ever rented an apartment in Australia, you know how competitive a process it can be. It usually goes from 0 to 100 in a minute. It helps if you are an early bird when apartment hunting in Australia. I bet you’ve elected to go for an inspection – by the time you return with your application, poof! The property was gone. Yeah, that sucks a lot! You can circumvent this challenge, especially if you’ve got the desired house.
The best way to escape this challenge is to go along with your application. Suppose you find the house desirable enough. In that case, you can turn in your application and ward off potential competitors. This trick will help you obtain the best properties with the appropriate square footage, kitchen cabinets, and other features.
Ensure to ask your agent whether they are accepting the applications in-person. If they are, you can make your documents handy and fill out your application while going for the inspection. However, if the agent only accepts online applications, keep your documents in an easy-to-find file so you can easily attach them to your application.
Read on here to find out more about personal references on your rental application – they play a crucial role in vouching for you.
Organisation is key
Another one of 5 renter hacks to nail your application is being organised is a must if you want to be an early bird. This way, you will stay ahead of others while searching for the best properties in Australia. Those little, negligible things like the vital supporting document you left out sometimes come back to bite you.
Ensure you organise your application so the owner does not have to look for critical information. Remember that the owners may have to sieve through several applications to get the most appropriate tenant. Hence, making your application stand out will help you gain that apartment you desire in Australia.
Show up prepared
There’s nothing better than showing up to the inspection prepared. Interestingly, most people come to property inspections underdressed. It is best to always dress as you would while going for a job interview because you’d automatically stand out. Standing out will make the agent notice you.
Cover letters are also important
Ever wondered why or how to write a cover letter for your rental application? Among the 5 renter hacks to nail your application is using a cover letter. You’re not overdoing it if you throw in a little cover letter to your rental application. Ensure that your cover letter explains your finances and circumstances. It is crucial to include a cover letter if you are self-employed and have various income streams.
Make the agent your friend
Ensure that you are as friendly to the house agent as possible. Being cordial with the house agent is always the icing on the cake because they will often consider you ahead of other prospective tenants. Trust me – it will be beneficial since you can’t be too sure how long rental application processes take to be approved.
How to cheat on a rental application
Now we have seen 5 renter hacks to nail your application. But what about cheating? Oh yeah, you can! You want that house, right? Check out this cheat sheet below.
Offer cash
You may offer to pay the first month’s rent (or even two if you have the dough!) and a security deposit to expedite the application and move-in process. Who knows – money makes the world go round, give it a try!
Challenge the tenant screening process
Here is where your emotions come into play. You may challenge the rental application fees if any, and also implore the landlord to spare the screening process. Use your emotions to make them trust you. Human nature might play to your advantage!
Skip the ‘previous landlord’ part
Okay – this may seem extreme, but hear me out. If you fear your history with previous landlords, you can skip that part and say you have been living with family members so they can serve as your references. They sure will put in a good name for one of their own. Clever, right?
Things to check while on property inspection
You need to consider several things while going for a property inspection as a potential tenant in Australia. Some houses have outdated light fixtures and will require you to fix them. Also, check for the amount of natural light if you love seeing natural light in your house.
Ensure that your property has hardwood floors if that is what you want. You may also want to check if your kitchen has cabinet doors and bench space to help you maximise space in the kitchen.
Also, check if the property has an outdoor space you can leverage. Remember to check the bare walls, the toilet seat and other features that make you feel comfortable when you move into the house.
Tips to help arrange your property with minimal effort
Getting the best out of your rental property will help you to enjoy your stay. Here are some tips to help you arrange your home in the best way possible.
Install good lighting
The first thing to install in your home is ambient lighting. Good light fixtures will ensure you enjoy natural light. Also, ensure to use a room divider where necessary to maximise space.
Take charge of your kitchen
Do not remove cabinet doors you did not install – unless you want to pay for damages. Instead, get permission from your landlord before making any changes that will cause permanent damage to the structure of the house.
Do not cause permanent change on rented property
It would help to use temporary wallpaper and tile stickers where necessary to avoid causing permanent damage to the structure of the building. Removable wallpaper is always the best option in a rented apartment. Do not use permanent wall decals to hang art. Generally speaking, it is best to always make temporary changes instead of permanent ones on your rented property. For example, you can change your shower curtain – and shower head and make window treatments without causing harm to the building. Even ceiling hooks may be tricky when it comes to rented apartments.
You can use a room divider to get extra space without causing damage. Use temporary hooks for hanging plants in your home to avoid issues with your landlord when it’s time to leave.
People also ask
Is it easy to find a rental in Australia?
It can be tough to find a rental in Australia. The vacancy rates are low in cities which drive up prices, so renting is competitive – as you may see here. However, Soho takes the hassle out of the search when you set up your match profile. We can start sending you personalised property matches based on your criteria so you never miss a beat!
What do landlords look for in a tenant in Australia?
Landlords look for a tenant who will not damage the rental property. They also look for a tenant who will look after the property and maintain it like it was their own, for example, landscaping. So better put your creative hats on if you wanna impress your landlord!
What documents do I need to rent an apartment in Australia?
The crucial documents you require are proof of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license. You must also demonstrate financial might, like a bank statement – just proof of active income. You also need to prove that you are employed (an employment contract will work here!) Lastly, you need contacts of personal preferences – unbiased, if you may.
