Question for all you Single mums.
How do I go about renting a place for my son and I? I’ve applied so many times and get knocked back every time. We desperately need our own space!!! Can anyone give me any tips ect?
Renting
Renting
Posted in:
Life Lessons
12 Replies
Ask the agency for an application prior to going to the inspection. Have it completed with all the documents required. I cannot stress enough that if they are asking a question on their application - answer it. Leaving it blank delays the process.
If you like the property, hand it in to the agent at the inspection. Follow up the next morning as this shows your interest. Let your references know that they will be getting a call.
If you are having difficulty, look for properties that have been on the market for a while. On realestate.com click on oldest to newest filter.
I’m a property manager so do let me know if you have any questions - good luck!!
Thank you so much! I have 4 inspections coming up and I’ve got all my applications and documents ready to go. Another question I have, I’ve applied for a rental maybe 1 month ago and it’s still available, I did everything on 1Form. Would I look to pushy if I was to pop into the office and give a hand written application and copies of my documents again to see how I’d go?
I always went dressed, like I was going to work in an office.
Have as much as the application done as you can. Chat to the agent, so they remember you.
I wouldn’t take my son with me unless he was on his best behaviour.
Check your rent to income ratios in your local area. Make sure you are within the ratios.
Ask the agent what criteria they select for. One agent told me, they select the first person that puts the application in at the office and pays a deposit. I literally got a place over 30 other applicants because I got to the office before anyone else! I drove straight from inspection to the office.
Its up to the owner how they choose their tenant, I have never heard of them going for the first application before thats lucky.
If its lack of good references for whatever reason you could try renting a really cheap, not so nice unit for 6 months just so you have a reference to use. Also check that you're not applying for houses that are out of your budget, they aren't allowed to accept you if the rent goes over a certain percentage of your income. Always show up clean and well presented including your car and child.
Send a cover letter with your application. Worked for me every time and ive rented my whole life . 25 years of rentals .
Send a cover letter with your application. Worked for me every time and ive rented my whole life . 25 years of rentals .
Speak to department of housing and ask for a tenancy garrentee it gives you $2000 on top of the bond in case any thing goes wrong and costs you nothing. I got the 2nd place i applied for after having that and ihad applied for over 20 properties before that and been knocked back.
Also offer more rent then they are asking if you can, it helps.
You shouldn't offer more rent but it is good to offer more than the normal 2 weeks in advance.
Why shouldn't you offer more rent. Just curious?
Could it be where you are looking to rent? Is there lots of people looking but not many properties? Maybe try another suburb area, if so! I am a single Mum and have never had an issue finding somewhere to live. Do you have a good rental history? Are you able to afford the houses you are looking for? Turn up on time, well dressed, maybe even borrow a car to make a good impression, if needed. Hope you find somewhere soon!
If I was you, I’d go on gumtree and rent a granny flat. Most are like houses and much cheaper. It will also give you a good start with references.