How to make your Rental Application stand out

Open any paper or listen to any podcast and you’ll know; the rental market can be an extremely competitive space. When on the hunt for your ideal home as a renter, it can be challenging to figure out how to give your application a competitive edge. It’s fair to say that showing up to an open for inspection and seeing the thirty other people queuing can be challenging! In today’s blog, the property management team at Chisholm & Gamon turn their attention to ‘best practice’ in your application to rent. Here’s the smarts … and we look forward to seeing your application!

Make a good first impression

Yes, it’s a bit of a cliché - but in this instance the phrase ‘first impressions matter the most’ does ring true. After all, an in-person rental inspection is potentially the only opportunity to make an impression. Make sure to be courteous on the day - the way you present yourself in appearance and temperament is in some ways a snapshot of how you could behave in the future - if you’re messy and rude in-person, the agent may assume you’ll be a messy and rude renter! Think of a rental inspection like a job interview: if you show up late, impolite and unkempt - you may be overlooked on first impression alone.

Get your (house)mates sorted

While they don’t necessarily have to attend the open for inspection (though it is preferable, and will be looked on favorably), you will need to provide their full applications and references along with your own. Only submit necessary documents required. Your friend might have a fantastic character reference from their Mum, and although interesting is not relevant to the application process.

Have your paperwork in order

Sometimes the difference between a successful application and one that falls short is the organisation of the applicant, documentation-wise. When you attend the home for inspection, a property manager will provide you with an application form to lease the residence. However - there’s no shame in being a little over-prepared in this scenario! Bringing previous references, pay slips and proof of employment, and having them ready to submit on-site can be an important factor when getting your application on the shortlist. Time is of the essence, and many agents won’t hold out for a copy of your driver’s license - they will simply move on to the next complete application. Have a folder of all relevant documentation ready to present to the agent when the time comes.

What happens next?

If you’ve submitted your application but haven’t heard anything 48 hours later, make a follow up call or email the agent. If you feel up to it, let them know how interested you are in the property - it’s possible that a friendly message could be the deciding factor between you and another applicant. Enthusiasm is great, but don’t be too pushy; a property manager’s workload is heavy and it can take time to speak with Residential Rental Providers (RRPs).

Now you’re up to speed on how to make your application stand out - why not check out Chisholm & Gamon’s most recent rental listings? And who knows… maybe we’ll be seeing you very soon!

https://chisholmgamon.com.au/real-estate-for-rent/rental-search