RENTING TIPS FOR TENANTS:
TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT PROPERTY
· Prepare a list of requirements for your new rental property, allowing for some flexibility. For example, will a carport be adequate instead of a garage if there is other storage.
· Take a drive around the area that you are looking at, including adjoining areas. You may find a nearby suburb is equally appealing and may offer better value for money.
· Check our website daily for updates on our latest properties or subscribe to our Rental Property Alert to have them sent directly to your inbox.
· Take advantage of our open for inspection times or make an appointment to view properties that interest you.
· When you find a suitable property, be ready to apply. You will need to provide identification and references… see the Tenancy Application page on our website for further details.
· Give as much detail as possible on your application form to avoid delays and improve your chance of success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do I need to provide so much information with my application?
A: Apart from helping to establish that you will make a good tenant, the properties managed by our office are protected by Landlord Insurance Policies. These policies require documented evidence to confirm the following:
– Proof of Identity
– Proof of Income /ability to meet rental payments
– Proof that you will make a good tenant.
Q: How long will it take to process my application?
A: We will commence checking your application as soon as we receive it; however the total time taken depends on how readily we can contact your references and how many other people have applied for the same property. Average time is 1-3 days.
Q: What can I do to improve my application?
A: Be organised. Make sure that you have all of the necessary documentation to accompany your application, and provide plenty of contact numbers for your references.
Q: What can I do to improve my chances of success?
A: We look for tenants with good rental history. Most importantly, we need to establish that your rent has been paid on time and the property has been well maintained and cared for.
Q: What if my application isn’t approved?
A: Normally there are several applicants for each property, and unfortunately not everyone can be approved. We will advise you if this is the case as soon as we receive confirmation from the owner of the property. If you are interested in another one of our rental properties you may request to transfer your application to that property.
Once Your Application Has Been Approved…
Your property manager will make an appointment with you to sign the Residential Tenancy Agreement and Rental Bond form. A signed copy of the agreement will be handed to you, along with a copy of the Residential Tenancies Information Brochure.
Prior to collecting the keys to the property, you will be provided with a detailed Property Condition Report, which forms part of the Residential Tenancy Agreement. This is an important part of the agreement that will be used to determine any damage or costs that you may be responsible for at the end of the tenancy. It is important that you complete the “tenant agrees” section of the condition report, sign it and return one copy to the agent within 14 days of the commencement date of the tenancy.
Rent in advance and Bond must also be paid to the managing agent, prior to the collection of the keys.
Rental Bond
Your rental bond will be lodged with Consumer and Business Services. The bond is held as security against any damage or undue wear and tear. The bond will be refunded promptly after you vacate, provided the property is left in as close as possible to the same condition as when the Residential Tenancy Agreement commenced (allowing for fair wear and tear) and there are no monies owing.
The bond will vary depending on the price of the rental property. Rent $250 per week and under is 4 weeks rent and anything over $250 is 6 weeks rent.