7 Rental Application Tips for Renters

So you turn up to the inspection and, along with 15 others, you jostle for a look.

You’ve already attended eight open homes, and if this place doesn’t work out, it’s three months on your brother’s couch…

Moving can be stressful so how can you ever get your home of choice?

Make a Good First Impression

Start by taking off your shoes. If 15 people trample dirt through the home, the agent will have a cranky current tenant to manage – make their life easier. Smile and introduce yourself (even if you don’t feel like it!). Agents dealing with many applicants often rely on their ‘gut feeling,’ usually favouring the friendliest person.

Have Your Paperwork Ready

Come prepared with your completed rental application, copies of necessary ID, and a payment ledger from your current agent (hopefully showing a history of timely payments). Being prepared shows you’re organised and serious, and it saves the agent time – something they’ll appreciate.

Demonstrate Reliability

Landlords want tenants who pay rent on time and care for the property. Ensure your rental history reflects this. If you’ve had issues in the past, explain them honestly and simply—agents appreciate transparency and responsibility rather than blame-shifting.

Be Mindful of Security

During busy open homes, agents are mindful of theft. Avoid carrying large bags or exiting through side doors, and always say a quick goodbye—thieves rarely do.

Discuss Maintenance Respectfully

It’s okay to ask about significant maintenance concerns, but avoid pointing out every minor issue (like peeling paint). Some renters mistakenly believe pointing out flaws can reduce rent—it won’t, especially in a busy market. It just makes you seem difficult.

Be Patient, Not Pushy

Feel free to ask about response times after submitting your application, but avoid repeatedly calling to follow up. Agents manage multiple properties and appreciate tenants who demonstrate patience rather than adding to their workload.

Pay Quickly to Secure the Property

Finally, paying your first two weeks’ rent promptly after approval will reassure the agent and landlord, removing any lingering doubts and securing the property quickly.

rental application tips for renters

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