How to stand out in a tight rental market

With limited rental stock and rising rent prices, there is no doubt it’s tough out there for people trying to secure a rental. Here is some advice that can get you in front.

Sjanna Sandalova

With limited rental stock and rising rent prices, there is no doubt it's tough out there for people trying to secure a rental.

But there is some light at the end of the tunnel now. With investor finance on the rise again, we should hopefully see an increase in the number of rentals available on the market in the coming months.

In the meantime, here is some advice that can help you get at the forefront of securing a rental property.

1. Introduce yourself to multiple property managers in your area

A lot of people don't realise that the property manager has most of the say when it comes to selecting a tenant.

It is their job to shortlist the candidates and present the property owner with their professional opinion, based on their first impressions, reference checks and standard of application.

But, they can also assist by proactively helping you find a rental, making it worth your while to build a relationship with them.

You can make yourself known to property managers in the areas where you wish to live and provide them with your references and any relevant information upfront, so they can match you with a suitable rental as it becomes available.

Take your time to make a good first impression. Be genuine, communicate clearly and show you are grateful that they are keeping you in mind when other rentals come to market.

2. Sign up for reiwa.com alerts

With home opens filling out, it's more important than ever that you are the first in line for when a new rental becomes available. You can get in front by registering yourself on reiwa.com so you receive alerts when a property has just been listed for rent.

You can choose what suburb, property type and price range you'd like to get alerted for. With the listing and agent information sent straight to your email, it's never been easier to book in a viewing.

3. Pre-prepare your application

Prepare applications through online tenancy application platforms, such as REIWA's Apply Now. When the right property becomes available then you will be able to apply without delay.

You can have all your documents and information saved in the one place, so when it's time to apply, it's only a matter of submitting.

4. See what your property manager sees with reiwa.com Tenant Check

reiwa.com Tenant Check provides you with all the information necessary to determine your viability for a tenancy, so you can see what your property manager sees.

Providing a clear tenant history will permit the landlord/property manager to see that you are the ideal tenant. If the tenant history discloses some past breaches, then you have the opportunity to get on the front foot and explain these when your application will be considered.

5. Pet resumes

Renting with a pet can be complicated as not every rental property allows pets. While a lot of landlords are open to the idea of making their rental 'pet friendly' (and some even encourage it), securing a rental with a pet can be tough in this competitive market.

You have nothing to lose by creating a pet resume, in fact, it is demonstrating to your property manager just how committed you are to finding a rental.

Find out more about pet resumes.