Are you on the hunt for a rental property in South Australia but finding it challenging to secure the perfect place? In today’s competitive rental market, we want to help applicants give themselves the best chance of success in finding their next home. With a little background knowledge, preparation, and attention to detail, you can increase your chances of being chosen as a tenant for your ideal home. Here are some valuable tips to help you make your rental application shine and fast-track yourself to being a successful candidate:
1. Apply Online As Soon as possible (Before Attending the Open Inspection)
You can apply for all of our properties in advance at https://tenantoptions.com.au/
We understand that in pre-covid times it was more common to wait until inspecting a property to consider submitting an application but we have found the new process much more efficient and helps get tenants into available properties much faster. Completing our due diligence background checks can take some time, especially if your references do not reply quickly and we strongly recommend contacting your employers/ landlord/ property managers in advance so they’re aware to look out for the reference requests and return them for you quickly. You are not under any obligation to proceed with your application if you change your mind but submitting your application as the first step will put you at the front of the line to be considered as soon as the open inspection has taken place. You can also use the same application to apply for multiple properties at once. All properties must be seen in person for your application to be considered, by applying for a property you will be notified of upcoming inspections so you can make arrangements to be there or have a representative present.
2. Be Presentable, Polite, and Punctual During Open Inspections
Make sure you attend the first available Open Inspection where possible, as priority is given to those with completed applications who have seen the property and there may not be a further open if a successful candidate is found in the first open. When attending open inspections, make a positive impression by being presentable, polite, and punctual. If you can’t make the open, you are welcome to have someone you trust attend on your behalf to make sure the property is suitable to your needs- please ask them to provide your contact details at registration so this can be matched to your application.
3. Affordable Living – Rent to Income ratio
Rental affordability can be a concern for many tenants and is one of the most important criteria when assessing applications. We do not want people to put themselves into financial trouble by committing to a lease that stretches them beyond their means, but appreciate many applicants are not aware of the common rule of thumb for rental affordability. The annual rent should total 1/3 or less of the combined household income. This generally ensures there is sufficient income to cover the other costs of living as well as the rent without pushing the tenants into hardship. If the property you’re interested in stretches your budget, consider applying with a second person, such as a partner, friend, or family member, to split the costs. By doing so, you can adhere to the commonly applied 33% rule, where you spend no more than 33% of your income on rent. Landlords often appreciate applicants who show financial responsibility and stability. Please note that anyone listed on the lease will be joint and severally liable for the property and all amounts owed under the lease and will be expected to remain for the duration of the lease so it is important to choose wisely when selecting potential joint tenants.
4. Fill Out the Application Completely and Accurately
Completing the rental application accurately is essential. Provide all the requested information, including your personal details, employment history, rental history and evidence of these. If there are gaps or the evidence provided doesn’t match the information you have stated, this can delay your application while it is followed up and may mean another applicant is successful in the meantime. You can reuse your application across multiple properties so it is worth spending some time in the beginning making sure it is completely ready before submitting it. An accurate and complete application demonstrates responsibility and reliability, making you a more attractive candidate. Renting a home is not like a sale where it’s simply a case of affordability or the highest offer wins, we will be looking after you for the duration of your time in that property-often 12 months minimum, but which may end up being for several years so we are keen to find people who will communicate respectfully, look after the property well and who will not put themselves into financial difficulty as a result of covering the rent.
5. Pet Owners: Include a Pet Resume and References
We encourage all landlords to move away from the association of Pets in rentals= damage and destruction as we know many of the best tenants are also very responsible pet owners. If you’re applying with a pet, it’s essential to demonstrate that your furry friend is well-behaved and suitable for the property. Create a pet resume detailing your pet’s training, vaccination records, and any relevant references from previous landlords or neighbours. Assure the landlord that your pet will not pose any problems, and you’ll significantly increase your chances of being accepted. It is important to be honest about any pets you intend to keep at the property. Although there are ongoing talks at present to reform the legislation, at present a landlord is still able to refuse or withdraw consent for pets, and bringing them into the home without consent may jeopardise your tenancy agreement and future references.
6. Remember: Landlord Makes the Final Decision
While property managers collect and review applications, it’s ultimately the landlord who makes the final decision on the chosen tenant. Make it easier for the property manager to recommend you as a great choice by providing them with all the relevant information and documentation they need to recommend you to the landlord. A complete and compelling application will help the property manager advocate for you during the selection process.
Finding the right rental property in South Australia can seem daunting, but with a well-prepared rental application and approach, you can increase your chances of securing your dream home. Apply online, be presentable during open inspections, provide accurate information, and consider any additional aspects that will make you an appealing tenant. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to calling your new rental property “home.”