How To Nail Your Rent Application

I’ve moved five times in my life. I love finding couches on the side of the road or scouring Facebook Marketplace for a bookshelf. I love walking around my new street, trying all the local cafes and pubs. I love getting to know new housemates and becoming closer with every movie night or dinner. 

But you know what I hate? The application process.

Okay nah, I’m being dramatic. Rental applications aren’t that bad, in fact, they’re pretty straightforward. I just hate admin lol. But alas, it must be done, and since I’ve always nabbed my dream property (even in Sydney and Melbourne where the market is cutthroat), I thought I’d share my tips on making your application as strong as possible. Let’s get into it. 
 

Make a good first impression
 

Before you even start your application, it’s time to have a chinwag with the real estate agent running the inspection. You’ll seem keen and committed.  

If you create a rapport with the real estate agent, they can better your chances in landing the place. Even if you’re unsuccessful, they might be able to lead you in the direction of other suitable properties on offer. 

You can also ask them for genuine advice on how to make your application as strong as possible. 
 

Have some baller references
 

Real estate agents, property managers and landlords want clarification that you’ll pay rent on time, you’re not gonna trash the place and you won’t tick off the neighbours by having Project X inspired parties every weekend. 

If you have a rental history, include information such as the address of the rented premises, the lease start and end dates and the cost of rent. You should also have a rental reference from your previous property manager. 

If you don’t have a rental history, don’t stress. Think of anyone that can sing your praises, perhaps a manager, co-worker, uni tutor… etc.  

Have some proof of income
 

If your account has $17 in it and you don’t have a reliable source of income, it’s not lookin’ good bruv. To be a strong candidate, you’ll need a steady income or at least some savings. To prove this, add some recent payslips and bank statements to your application. You could even show Youth Allowance income. 
 

Write a cover letter
 

This is the pièce de resistance of a strong application. Sure, landlords don’t require this buuuuut this will set you apart from all the other applicants. 
 
Write a few paragraphs about who you are, what do you do for a living and the reason for your move. You can also sprinkle in some phrases like “I’m quiet”, or “I’m committed to maintaining the property”, y’know, all the stuff they wanna hear. 

Be a little professional, but also let your personality shine through.  
 

Check you filled out everything correctly
 

I know I know, filling out applications is such a drag. But just give it one more read through to make sure you attached everything necessary, or you don’t have any heinous spelling mistakes.
 

And there you have it! If you wanna learn more about the world of adulting and money, suss out our FinFirst Academy. You’ll come out of it as money literate as the Monopoly man.