The thrill of finding your first rental property in Sydney is a huge milestone, but as a first-time renter, getting to that point can feel daunting.
Sydney’s rental market is notoriously competitive, which means you need to be well-prepared and ready to act fast. Here are our essential tips to help give you the upper hand in this market, and most importantly, land a rental property that feels like home.
Be ready to pounce
Keep a vigilant eye on listings on websites like Domain.com.au and realestate.com.au and be ready to attend rental inspections at short notice – this may be the only chance you get before it gets snapped up! If you find a property that ticks all your boxes, you need to be ready to apply immediately. Most rental applications are done online, where you need to submit documents including identification, recent payslips or proof of income, and references. To give you the best chance of getting the property, make sure you prepare these documents in advance.
You can gauge the demand for the property by the number of people at the inspection. If it’s crowded, consider applying immediately – even from your car post-inspection! It is possible to apply for the property beforehand, but most agents will only review your application once you have inspected the property.
First impressions matter
First impressions are crucial. Property managers are the gatekeepers, and making a lasting positive impression can tip the scales in your favour. This doesn’t mean you need to dust off the tuxedo, but dressing neatly, basic grooming, and being polite is a must! In addition, building rapport with the property manager can be a game-changer. Engage with the property manager to enquire about the property’s history, maintenance records, and terms of the lease. Being engaged not only helps you gather information but also demonstrates your genuine interest in the property.
Be pet aware
If you’re a proud pet parent, it’s essential to be upfront about it in your application. Australia boasts one of the highest pet ownership rates globally, with nearly 69% of households owning a pet, with dogs being the most common, at 48%. It’s becoming more common for landlords to accept pets but be honest and transparent about your furry friend in your application. However, keep in mind that not all pets are made equal – if your pet is large or might cause a disturbance, have a plan to assure the property manager of how you will address potential issues. Remember, there’s a good chance your landlord has a pet too!
Review the lease agreement
Before signing on the dotted line, read through the lease agreement carefully. Take note of essential elements such as the duration of the lease, rent amount, payment frequency, and any house rules or restrictions. If you find any jargon or clauses that are unclear, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from the property manager.
Also, pay attention to the condition report, which records the state of the property at the time you move-in. If there are any discrepancies, take photos of them and communicate them with the managing agent immediately. This will save you headaches and protect your bond at the end of your lease. Read more of our bond-saving tips here.
Embarking on your first rental journey is no small feat, but with the right approach and preparation, you can navigate the market like a seasoned pro. Remember, your rental home is an important space in your life; be diligent, but also enjoy the process as you find the perfect spot to call your own.
Ready to dive into the rental market? Our friendly team at our offices in Campbelltown, Liverpool, Macquarie Fields, and Narellan are here to help.
Prudential Real Estate Campbelltown | (02) 4628 0033 | campbelltown@prudential.com.au
Prudential Real Estate Liverpool | (02) 9822 5999 | liverpool@prudential.com.au
Prudential Real Estate Macquarie Fields | (02) 9605 5333 | macquariefields@prudential.com.au
Prudential Real Estate Narellan | (02) 4624 4400 | narellan@prudential.com.au
Information referred to in this article was obtained from publicly accessible sources including RSPCA.org. The information provided in this blog post is for general guidance only and should not be taken as personal advice.
