Applying for a rental property in the current Perth market can be a nightmare. While the competitiveness of the market has subsided a little from last year’s less than 1% vacancy, it can still be very difficult to secure a tenancy.

The current market is still extremely competitive, particularly in the $200-$300 bracket. This means that in most cases agents carry out group home opens. To have a chance of securing a tenancy it is best to make yourself available for these, as not many agents will make the home available for viewing a second time.

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Some tips for securing that tenancy include good presentation and coming with all the information you’ll require so that you can fill out an application form on-site. This information includes:

• The names, addresses, and phone numbers of references
• Copies of identification
• Information on your previous addresses, including landlord/property manager details
• The periods in which you rented the last two properties, and how much rent you were paying
• Emergency contacts

You should also have the option fee available to give to the property manager immediately. Some tenants have reported securing properties by offering to pay more than the asking price in rent; in most cases, however, it is more important to demonstrate the ability to pay on time through good landlord and employment references.

ONCE YOU’RE IN…

When you are successful in securing a tenancy, there are a few basic things that can help you stay in the property for as long as possible. The key is to establish a good working relationship with your property manager early on; however, as many property managers are often flat-out, this does not mean calling them up every other week for a chat. What it does mean is paying rent on time and being calm and clear if issues do arise (i.e. broken hot water systems). Maintaining lawns, gardens, and the internals of the property is a must also, as is asking before making any modifications, such as drilling for pictures.

In a climate of rising house prices, more people are relying on rental properties for longer. At Rayners, tenancies usually start at 12 months or longer. However, in the current market, you can expect rental increases about once every 6 months – check your contract for these clauses before you sign.

From the Property Manager’s perspective, it makes more sense to keep a tenant long-term, as the most wear and tear is usually dealt out to properties that have a high tenant turnover. So, once you do sign the contract, work on building a good working relationship because chances are you’ll be renting until housing prices become a little more affordable for first home-buyers.