When you’re searching for a new place, you may have your eye on a lot of possible homes. However, you must still take the time to tailor each rental application form. Here’s everything you need to know about these important documents.

Why Your Rental Application Matters

A rental application is almost always an owner’s first impression of you. They may get hundreds of responses to a single ad, and this helps them narrow down their choices. This means literally every detail you put in comes under scrutiny.

Your best bet here is to put as much effort into each application as you can. This definitely takes a lot of time. But following the right tips will help you get viewings and even lease offers. Always make the most of your application. It could be your only chance to get your dream rental.

With rents rising faster than wages, you can’t miss any opportunity that fits your budget. It’s vital that you convince the landlord that you will always be a model tenant.

Ways To Boost Your Tenant Application

There are plenty of ways you can make an effort with your rental application. Some of these are quite simple but still put you ahead of the pack.

1. Contact the Letting Agent

If the property has a letting or real estate agent, it never hurts to contact them. They might know the landlord well. Ask what the landlord’s exact screening requirements are. This helps you see which parts of the application you should give special attention to.

This is also a good time to ask questions about the home. For example, the ad might be unclear about the property’s pet policy. This is better than asking the landlord. After all, the application gives a much better first impression of your potential tenancy.

2. Complete and Check Every Section

Some people submit a tenancy application without checking they’ve got everything in order. This easy mistake could cost you the property. Never send in a document without double-checking it. You might not have a chance to correct any mistakes, even if you send them an email.

Ask someone else to look over the application before submitting it. They may see a mistake you didn’t, or even offer feedback about one of the sections. A second opinion always helps. It might even help you get a viewing for the property.

3. Add Your Full Financial History

Above all else, landlords want somebody who can pay the rent regularly. This is the crux of their dynamic with tenants. Make sure the application set includes your credit score. This number effectively shows how likely you are to repay debts.

In addition to a great credit score, you need proof of your income. Add copies of your payslips. If you’re freelance, add your latest tax report. Showing your savings might be out of your comfort zone. However, this shows you can pay even if you lose your job.

4. Include a Guarantor

Some tenancies require a guarantor. This is someone who will pay the rent on your behalf if you aren’t able to do so. However, even if a property doesn’t ask for this, it helps to include one. This could show the landlord you’re willing to go the extra mile.

This gives the landlord peace of mind about your tenancy. They won’t worry about you suddenly not being able to pay after, for example, losing your job. The owner can simply get in touch with your guarantor to find a way forward.

5. Negotiations and Flexibility

Make sure the landlord knows they’ll get a good deal by giving you a chance. For example, you could offer to stay for a longer contract. This gives the owner some security that they won’t have to find a new tenant after a year.

You should also show that you’re flexible with the move-in date. It’s even worth offering to pay a higher security deposit. However, make sure you know your state’s deposit laws. Be flexible and generous, but without causing any problems for yourself.

6. Be Quick and Responsive

Your application doesn’t start or end with the document you submit. You should also be ready to keep making a great impression across the whole application process. Reply to any follow-up emails as quickly as you can. This shows you’re serious about renting the property.

Similarly, you could write a “thank you” email shortly after sending your application. Send this to the landlord or property manager. This once again shows your interest in the home. In addition, simple acts of politeness could go a long way towards convincing the landlord.

Final Thoughts

A great rental application is one that proves how good of a tenant you would be. Before sending one in, however, check online application templates. This shows you if the one you’re using has everything a landlord typically expects.

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