Getting the landlord to like you and accept your application is one of the most nerve-wracking parts of finding a new place to live.It's important to put your best foot forward when you meet the prospective landlord and during the application process to ensure you have the best chance of landing the rental property.
Step 1: The landlord should be contacted in a respectful manner.
When you make your first contact with the landlord, you should give them your full name, contact information, and interest in the property.In your phone message or email, be brief and to the point.A brief description of yourself can be provided, such as a graduate student looking for a long term rental property or a young professional with a strong rental history.Try to get in touch with the landlord as soon as you see the property for rent online or in the Classifieds section of the newspaper because the rental market is very competitive.If you were referred to the rental property by a friend who lives in the building, and they are in good standing with the landlord, you can mention them in your phone message or email.
Step 2: Prepare a resume.
If youCompile all of the necessary documentation for your application, you can simply hand it to the prospective landlord during the rental inspection.This will speed up the application process and make it easier for the landlord to determine if you are a good fit.The details of your rental history should include your current address and past addresses, as well as contact information for past landlords and the dates you resided at each location.The last two places you rented or lived in should be the focus of your rental history.Contact information for your current employer and your past employer should be included in your employment history.Your salary history and the dates of your employment should be included.This will show the landlord that you have a steady income and can afford to pay rent.At least two references, one professional and one personal, should be prepared, as well as your current boss or former landlord.Look for people who can help you with your application.If you can, try to get a copy of your credit history and credit score from your bank.This will show your landlord that you can pay your bills on time and have good credit.If you have a poor credit score, you should be able to provide current employment information that will show you can pay rent on time every month.
Step 3: There is a rental inspection.
Dressing nicely and looking presentable will make you stand out from the crowd.This does not necessarily mean a suit and tie, but you should take care of your appearance.Don't wear sweats, slippers, or uncombed hair.A clean shirt, jeans, and a clean appearance will show you are presentable for the landlord.If your potential roommate is going with you to the rental inspection, make sure they are presentable for the first meeting with the landlord.
Step 4: Make sure you are on time for the rental inspection.
Wait outside of the rental property for the landlord with a big smile and be a bit early.The landlord will likely remember that you tried to be on time.
Step 5: It's a good idea to be upfront about pets or rental issues.
Failing to tell the landlord about your pets could be a violation of your lease.If you have a pet, be sure to check the rental listing.You can suggest a pet interview during the rental inspection, where the landlord has an opportunity to meet your pet and assess its behavior and demeanor.The landlord can get a sense of the pet and prevent them from moving on to another tenant with no pets.If you've had rental issues with past landlords, be upfront about why.If you and your landlord had a dispute, make sure you tell the prospective landlord about it on your rental resume.This will allow you to be proactive about past issues and give your side of the story.
Step 6: You should communicate your interest in the rental property.
If you want to rent the property, you need to be clear about your intentions during the rental inspection.Show your enthusiasm for the space by commenting on how nice a certain room is or how you have been looking for a place in this specific area.Comment on how well the property is kept.You will give a clear indication that you are serious about your interest when the landlord picks up on your comments.You should make an effort to be personable during the rental inspection.Ask the landlord about the history of the building or the past tenants.If you want to be friendly with the landlord, show that you are interested in what they have to say.This will make a good first impression on the landlord and they may want to consider you as a tenant.
Step 7: Explain why you would be a good tenant.
Mention the reasons why you would be a good tenant, such as your steady income, stellar rental history, or high credit score.The elements of your rental resume that show you are reliable and good with money are what you should focus on.A tenant who will treat the property with respect and care is what most landlords want.Mention your past experiences that show you will be a responsible and trustworthy tenant in order to highlight your ability to do both things.