With the fierce competition for rental properties in Adelaide, how can you make sure your application stands out from the crowd? 

Our property managers share their six top tips that may increase your chances of being the successful applicant. 

1. Complete the application in full.  

This sounds obvious, but missing information on a rental application creates an immediate impression that you are not really interested. Be sure to list all the people who are planning to live in the property and provide their financial details. Missing information may mean the property manager will simply move on to the next application, due to time restraints. If you have a pet, disclose it on the application. It may help to include a photo and pet resume, so the Landlord can make an informed choice. If the Landlord is picturing a large dog that may scratch hardwood floors when you have a tiny dog, it may make a substantial difference to the success of your application. 

2. Prove you are a reliable rent payer. 

The Landlord will want to confirm you will pay your rent on time, so evidence of your rental history will be required. Your previous property manager can provide you with a copy of your rental leger to include in your application.  

3. No rental history? 

If you have just moved out of home and it is your first-time renting, we recommend you enlist the help of a guarantor. This will help give the landlord some extra security and once you have gained some rental history, simply contact the agent about removing the guarantor at renewal. 

Just sold your home? Provide a note from the selling agent or comments from your accountant. Written references from work colleagues or peers also go a long way.  

4. Demonstrate affordability. 

Include all the financial history requested in the application. Only listing one person’s income when there are two tenants looking to lease is cutting the affordability factor in half. Pay slips and bank statements need to be no older than two months and must be complete. 

5. Explain anything odd. 

If you have a gap in your rental history because you lived with a friend or went overseas, or you do not have a job but plan to pay from your savings, a short cover letter explaining that goes a long way. Agents and landlords understand different circumstances but if you do not explain it, they may assume the worst.  

6. Say “Hi” and be on time! 

Attending an open inspection on time, saying hello, and quickly introducing yourself is a fantastic way to make a good first impression. If the agent can put a face to the name, it will often help when presenting the applications to the property owner. And in such a busy market you do not want to be late and missing the opportunity to inspect the property.