Standing Out From All Those Other Applicants

There’s fierce competition for rental homes, so it’s important to grab the attention of landlords and property managers. They’ll be deciding who their next tenant will be, and you want it to be you. Here are some ways to get noticed and have you signing that rental lease agreement in no time:

Connect online

If you spot a great rental home online, check if there is an online application you can fill out right away. It’s a signal to future landlords and property managers that you are prepared and serious. If the rental is on Zillow, start by completing a Renter Profile. The free, easy tool lets you securely share your information and qualifications with landlords and property managers. Your profile will let you introduce yourself and your household, explain why you’d be a great tenant, share what kind of home you’re looking for and more.

Have your info ready

To make in-person applications faster to complete, have your paperwork ready: Make copies of your last few pay stubs and bank statements, have the contact info for your current employer and landlord, and know your credit score. It’s also smart to have cash or a check ready to cover a credit check or application fee. Anything you can do to speed the process is a good way to put you ahead of other potential tenants.

Get a recommendation letter or two

If you’ve rented before, ask your current (or former) landlord to write a recommendation. The letter should include how long you lived there and that you paid your rent on time – and it wouldn’t hurt if they said you were the best tenant ever! Make several copies to share with landlords or property managers. The letter is a sign of a good rental history and that you know what it takes to have a strong landlord-tenant relationship. If you haven’t rented before, or to make an even stronger impression, ask your boss for a letter that not only confirms you have a job but also touts your honesty and reliability.

Make a personal connection

If an open house is scheduled for a rental you’re interested in, ask if you can see the unit beforehand. If not, make sure you show up at the open house early, and stay a while. You should dress well and strike up a conversation. Tell the landlord or property manager what you like about the place and share a bit about yourself. That will help make an impression that you’re a serious renter, as will a quick follow-up email or hand-written note after the open house.

Offer to pay rent in advance

If you can afford it, one way to prove how much you want the unit is to offer to pay a couple months of rent in advance. This will assure the landlord you have savings and likely can pay on time each month.

Be willing to sign a longer lease

Signing a longer rental lease is another way to show your commitment. However, only offer to do this if you want to stay in the neighborhood or a city for the foreseeable future. Breaking a lease or finding someone to sublet can be a headache for you and your landlord.

Be upfront about things

Would your credit score raise some eyebrows? Does your background check raise some red flags? Be honest with the landlord or property manager. Help them understand your situation – being trustworthy and upfront may be a plus. Also it helps to know your renters rights.