The Inspection Process

While it’s great to check out photos of a property listed online, make sure you head down to the property itself, for an in-person inspection. It’s important for you to have a realistic perception of the style & condition of the property before you apply. Rooms can appear larger and smaller than they truly are, based on the photos.

When you arrive to inspect the property, please do not park in the driveway. Often when a rental property is open for inspection, the existing tenant is still living there, so this is a small courtesy you can pay to the current tenant.

It’s a nice idea to take your shoes off to inspect the property, and it’s important to be respectful of the current tenant’s possessions and furniture, including not opening cupboard and wardrobe doors. Enjoy a wander through the property - without touching.

Be sure to take the opportunity while you have access to the rental agent, to ask any questions you may have about the property.

The Application Process

When you apply for a property, be honest and open. Estate Agents understand that we are not all perfect, and there might be something on your rental record or circumstances that have occurred that you want to be upfront about and explain the details.

Make the effort to get your details right on the application forms to make the process as smooth as possible, and to ensure the property is not assigned to another applicant, just because of something simple like missing details.

Make sure you’ve provided clear copies of your ID, such as your license, passport or birth certificate.

Here is a list from Housing Victoria of some of the details you will need to provide:

• Your identification, including photo identification like a driver's licence or passport, Medicare card, health care card or birth certificate
• Names and contact details of people who will give you rental or personal references
• Your rental history
• Rent payment receipts or statements
• Employment details and history
• Proof of income, like current payslips from your employer or your Centrelink income statement
• Bank Statement showing daily transactions with other areas redacted.

References

Give your references a heads up that you’ve put their details down to vouch for you. This way they’ll be receptive to contact from an agent and will be able to provide a positive reference for you. Your employer, previous landlord or former neighbour could be a good person to choose.

If this is your first time renting, you need to provide evidence that you’re reliable and can cover the rent. Payslips, employment contracts or character references are a good start.

A written reference can really make an application stand out, and help you find your next home.

Rental Application Checklist

Here is a handy rental checklist from Consumer Affairs Victoria – use this to make sure you’ve covered everything you need.

• read through and complete the rental application form
• list all people who will be living at the property
• list any pets that will be living at the property
• include all details of your rental referees
• provide information about your employment
• include character references (if needed)
• ensure you can pay the bond (usually the same amount as one month’s rent) along with the first month’s rent – generally these need to be paid before you move in
• sign your completed application form, include all required attachments and send it back to the agent or rental provider.

3BA Interview with Gail Atkinson

Have a listen to Gaile Atkinson chatting to Brett McDonald on 3BA here, and speak to one of our experience Property Managers at Barry Plant Ballarat. They’ll be happy to answer any of your questions about renting a property. Give us a call on 03 5320 9300, or shoot us an email at [email protected].

Further Information for Landlords and Tenants:

Check out this post on Stamp Duty Concessions to keep up to date with recent changes.

https://www.barryplant.com.au/offices/ballarat/media-hub/blog/lets-talk-about-stamp-duty/

It’s important for Landlords and Tenants to understand the difference between Urgent and Non-Urgent Repairs. Check out our blog post to learn more. https://www.barryplant.com.au/offices/ballarat/media-hub/blog/urgent-and-non-urgent-repairs/

Disclosure Statements are an important step for renting your properties. If you’re a landlord looking for information about Disclosure Statements see our blog post and radio interview.

https://www.barryplant.com.au/offices/ballarat/media-hub/blog/disclosure-statements-rental-properties/

Read this article for a summary of how the regional rental market is performing.

https://www.barryplant.com.au/offices/ballarat/media-hub/news/how-regional-rental-market-performing/