In a competitive rental market as we have in Australia, making your rental application stand out can be as challenging as finding a needle in a haystack. Knowing what to tell a landlord about yourself is crucial, as it can help you seal the deal for your desired rental property.
This article’s gonna school you on how to make your rental application stand out and also make you a more attractive candidate to property managers and real estate agents.
Understanding what landlords look for
Landlords and property managers have a particular set of tick boxes for potential renters. By getting your head around these, you can shape yourself into the kind of tenant they’d be stoked to have.
Stability
Stability is the top banana in the rental world. It shows you’re a reliable renter who can keep up with the rental payments. So, if you’ve got a steady job and a good rental track record, make sure you show it off. If not, no worries, mate – we’ll get into how to handle that shortly.
Ability to Pay Rent
Landlords are chuffed when tenants pay their rent on the dot. Share evidence of a stable income from your employment resume, making sure it measures up to the landlord’s expected rent-to-income ratio. You can also consider sharing your credit history as proof of your fiscal discipline.
What to share about yourself with landlords
What to tell your landlord about yourself? Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to write a cover letter for your rental application, what to put in your renter resume, and rental application letter.
Personal information
Even on paper, first impressions matter. Kick off your rental application letter with your full contact details, then follow up with a quick intro about yourself in your cover letter. Spill the tea on what you’re into. Are you a gym person or a Netflix binger? Or maybe you’re just on the prowl for a new crib. Let them know what’s good.
It’s crucial to make the landlord feel you’re not just looking for any rental property, but their rental property is right for you. Being honest and open here helps build trust, showing the landlord that you’re genuine and respectful – a trait that could make you stand out in a competitive rental market.
Employment and income details
Detailed employment information is critical. Your potential landlord should be confident that you can pay the rent. So, be clear about your income level and job stability.
Rental history
Your rental history is a testament to your behaviour as a tenant. If you’ve got solid rental reference letters, include them in your application. It’s a top-notch way to show landlords that you’re a trustworthy tenant.
References
Personal references on your rental application are another way to add credibility. These could be from previous landlords, employers, or anyone else who can vouch for your reliability.
Tips on communicating with property managers and landlords
Effective communication can really give you a leg up when you’re trying to snag a rental property. Being clear as a bell and open as a book can help you build a ripper relationship with property managers or landlords. Make sure to present any questions or worries in a professional way – it’s not a bad shout to approach these interactions as if you’re in a job interview.
Also, make sure you’re giving them the real deal about yourself. If there are a few curly bits in your application, like a short rental history or you’ve got a pet, don’t try to do the old Aussie bushman’s hanky with them.
Rather, be upfront and talk about how you plan to tackle these issues. Finally, don’t forget your manners. Be quick off the mark with your replies and always be punctual for inspections. Good manners and being punctual will set you apart in this competitive market and might just be your ticket to that dream rental.
Also, remember to be patient. People often wonder, “How long does a rental application take to be approved?” The answer is not definitive, and each landlord will be different. With that in mind, try to find a balance where you can inquire as to the progress of the process without being a nag.
Frequently asked questions
What if you don’t have a long rental history?
Not having a long rental history doesn’t automatically boot you out of the game. Focus on building a strong rental resume that highlights your responsible nature. Demonstrate your consistency in other areas – like your job or even study commitments.
Can you still rent if your income is not very high?
Absolutely, While a steady income is crucial when applying for a rental, landlords and property managers also consider your financial management skills. Evidence of paying bills on time and a good credit history can boost your appeal.
What if you have a pet?
Is this rental property right for you? What about my pets? Australia is a nation of pet lovers, so many landlords are open to tenants with pets. Be upfront about it and consider including a pet resume detailing your pet’s behaviour and your commitment to looking after the property.
How should I present myself if I’m a student or self-employed?
Whether you’re a full-time student or a freelancer, presenting a stable income source can be tricky. Consider throwing down a bigger bond or getting someone to be your guarantor. Having some solid references that can vouch for your reliability can definitely give you an edge.
Can you negotiate the terms of the rent agreement?
While it’s not common in Australia, you can always try your luck. If you’re dealing directly with the property owner, they might have a bit more wiggle room. However, a real estate agent might be a tad more rigid.
Keep it courteous, and remember it’s all about give and take. Regardless of your circumstances, every property manager and real estate agent is on the hunt for reliable tenants. Stay true to yourself, be a straight shooter, and you’ll be well on your way to landing that rental.
