The quality of your rental application is critical.

To maximise your odds of being successful, here are some things you should include.

Most landlords will be particularly interested in a tenant’s ability to pay rent, the likelihood of the property being well-maintained and whether the tenant is trustworthy.  

Regardless of whether you are attending an inspection or applying online, you will need this documentation:

Rental resume

This is used by landlord and agents to determine if you are likely to be a reliable tenant.

Your rental resume should include: 

• Personal details (name, gender, age, number of children, number of pets, smoker status, number of vehicles and any other relevant details).

• Education level.

• Employment status and details.

• Salary.

• Rental history.

• Contact details (phone and email).

• Bring a copy of this to the inspection.

• If you own pets it might be useful to create a pet resume. 

Identification

You must be able to prove your identity to the landlord or agent. Suitable forms of identification include passport, citizenship certificate, driver’s licence, Medicare card, birth certificate or healthcare card. 

Reference letters

Positive references are often one of the best ways to get a foot in the door.

Try to have at least three. 

There are generally two types of reference letters, personal and professional. 

A personal reference might be written by a neighbour, roommate or anyone else who can vouch for your character.

It is not recommended that you use relatives as your reference.

Professional letters should highlight your level of professionalism, punctuality and if you will be organised enough to make consistent payments.

Professional letters might come from co-workers, educators, employers, real estate agents or landlords.

Keep in mind that letters from property managers or real estate agents will hold more weight than those of landlords. 

Pay slips/bank statements

Pay slips or bank statements are also crucial when applying for a rental property.

It proves to the agent or landlord that you are employed and capable of paying rent consistently. 

Recent evidence of regular earnings, a good track record and a level of savings will greatly increase your chances of being successful.

Rental history

Ensure you can provide information about your previous rental residence.

Relevant information includes your former address, a tenancy or rental ledger, past evictions, criminal history and credit score. 

Cover letter

This provides an important first impression to landlords or agents.

Your cover letter gives you an opportunity to put your personality on display but it should never be at the expense of professionalism.

Describe who you are, your employment details and why you’re moving.

Be sure to create a unique cover letter for each property application and be sure to address your cover letter to the relevant landlord or agent.

If you’re applying for a property that you intend to share, include a brief introduction for each housemate. 

Although you are trying to frame yourself in the best possible light, it is important that you remain honest and acknowledge any relevant negative information. 

If you make an online application and don't get a response within a few days, it is fine to follow up in a polite and respectful manner. This is an easy way of expressing your interest in the property. 

What to do as a first-time renter

A first-time renter will face a number of challenges.

While you won't have any rental history and limited references, there are still things you can do to improve your odds. 

To ensure the landlord or agent is comfortable with your ability make rental payments, you can have your lease co-signed. This makes the co-signer a ‘guarantor’ who will be responsible for any missed rental payments. 

Remember references cannot be family members, so perhaps reach out to neighbours, teachers, employers or co-workers.

To register for TOOP+TOOP's early release rentals, click here. To create your Renter Profile, please click here. This profile can be applied to multiple applications.