Top tips for getting the rental property of your dreams

If you enjoy live music, you'll have had the experience - at some point in your life - of waiting for tickets to a concert you want to attend to go on sale and urgently clicking the "buy now" button before they are sold out. In some markets, trying to get a rental property can start to feel like a similar experience. The CSi Property Group has put together a list of things that tenants can do to secure the home of their dreams before someone else does.

Tip 1: Make sure you know about new listings as soon as they become available

You need to have your finger on the pulse, and regularly checking the rental listings on property portals isn't enough. Sign up for property alerts and apply as soon as you see a property you like become available. If the area you're looking to live in is a particularly sought-after one, waiting until after work to phone may mean that you've left it too late.

Tip 2: Build a relationship with a property practitioner

If a property practitioner specialising in rentals in your area knows that you're on the lookout for a home, they may be able to give you a heads-up about a new rental property before it is even listed. They may also be able to introduce you to other nearby areas that you hadn't realised could also be an ideal home for you.

Tip 3: Respond efficiently to online adverts

If you see an advert for a property that you like, don't delay. Call the agent to express your interest, and follow this call up immediately with an email. When you send this email, use the opportunity to tell the agent everything they need to know about you. Here's what the email should include:

• An up-to-date credit report and score
• A copy of your ID document
• Proof of income (or three months' bank statements if you're self-employed)
• A reference from a past landlord or rental agent

Tip 4: Be ready to pay your deposit

When you view a property, make sure that the property practitioner managing the rental knows that you'll be able to pay the deposit and the first month's rent immediately. On a related note, make sure the home you're interested in is within your budget. As a rule of thumb, landlords and letting agencies will require you to have a gross salary of at least three times the monthly rent - and some landlords will ask for two months' deposit upfront.

Tip 5: Complete the application form thoroughly

Make sure that all the required information is filled out accurately and completely. If your incomplete application ends up among a pile of fully completed ones, you will be overlooked. Be sure to be fully honest about your rental history, income and any other relevant information - including any pets that you may have.

Tip 6: Be punctual and professional

Be on time for viewings - it's likely that your slot is only 15 minutes long. Be presentable and show yourself to be the type of tenant that any landlord would love to have. If you like what you see, make it clear that you're able to pay your deposit immediately.

Tip 7: Beware of scams

People looking for rental properties sometimes become the latest victims of scammers. The most important rule of thumb is to never pay any money or deposit until you have physically seen the property and decided that you want to rent it. Another safeguard is to ensure that your property practitioner is registered with the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority. It's quick and easy to check this on their homepage.

The CSi Property Group's rental property practitioners have years of experience in helping tenants find and secure new homes. Contact us today and let us take the stress out of finding your next home.