Once you have found a rental property of interest, the first step is to contact the leasing agent and organise to inspect the property at the first available time. It will be ideal if you can arrange a private appointment prior to an open home inspection.
Ask the leasing agent if they can send you a link to the online application or provide a copy of the application form before the inspection.
Complete the application form in its entirety and ensure the following documentation is provided:
Cover letter – a great opportunity to stand out from the crowd and include a cover letter which gives the agency and landlord a summary of your background along with any assurances that you will be the ideal tenant for the property
Proof of identification – a copy of your driver’s license, passport and a credit card/health card will suffice. The more information you can supply, the better. If you are a non-Australian resident, make sure you provide a copy of your visa
Proof of income – a copy of your last 3 previous pay slips or a bank statement showing your last 3 pay deposits. If you are commencing a new job or have only recently started a new job, you can provide a copy of your employment contract
Proof of rental history – a copy of your current tenant ledger or a reference from your current managing agent or landlord
Proof of current address – a copy of a recent utility bill showing your current address
References – a copy of any reference letters you may have had from past landlords and employers. You can also provide any character references you may have from friends or colleagues
When you attend the rental property inspection, it is important to make a good first impression on the leasing agent. Introduce yourself and be polite, friendly and enthusiastic. Ask the leasing agent if there are any particular lease terms that the landlord is looking for.
If you would like to apply for the rental property, hand over your application pack to the leasing agent or advise the leasing agent that you will submit your online application following the inspection.
Follow up with the leasing agent the next business day to confirm if any additional information is required. This will showcase your genuine interest and dedication to the rental property.
Good luck and happy house hunting.