Conquering the Rental Beast: Your Guide to Finding a Flat in Fabulous Melbourne
So, you've decided to grace Melbourne with your presence? Excellent choice! But before you can perfect your inner hipster with a flat white in hand, you'll need a place to call home. Fear not, intrepid renter, for this guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the Melbourne rental jungle like a seasoned pro.
Step 1: Embrace the Inner Sherlock - Unearthing Your Dream Flat
- Hit the Big Guns: Websites like Domain and Realestate.com.au are your best friends. Set up those search filters like a hawk – desired suburbs, budget (be realistic, Melbourne rents can be steeper than a good cup of Melbourne coffee), and that all-important question: "pets welcome?"
Pro Tip: Don't be afraid to broaden your horizons. Melbourne's suburbs are like a box of chocolates – you never know what quirky delight you'll find.
- Calling all Bargain Hunters: Gumtree can be a treasure trove, but proceed with caution – if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. Always inspect the property before handing over any cash, and remember, meeting strangers in dimly lit laneways to view flats is not the Melbourne way (unless it's part of a well-organised scavenger hunt).
Step 2: Master the Art of the Application - Why You Should Always Put Your Best Foot Forward (Even if it's in Worn-Out Thongs)
QuickTip: Take a pause every few paragraphs.
- Crafting the Perfect Bio: This isn't your Tinder profile, but it is your chance to make a good first impression. Highlight your financial stability (adulting!), impeccable references (think glowing testimonials from your past landlord), and your love for all things Melbourne (bonus points for knowing your flat white from your cappuccino).
Remember: A bit of humour can go a long way. Show the agent you're a normal human who won't leave the place looking like a post-apocalyptic wasteland.
- Inspection Time: Dress for success (even if success means clean pyjamas). Arrive on time (early is even better, gotta show that enthusiasm!), and ask questions! Is the hot water temperamental? Do the walls resemble a Jackson Pollock masterpiece thanks to the previous tenant's artistic endeavours? Knowledge is power, my friend.
Step 3: Rental Victory Dance! (Though Maybe Tone it Down a Notch if You Have Neighbours)
- The Big Yes! You've landed your dream flat! Do a happy dance, but maybe hold off on the celebratory fireworks – there's still paperwork to sign and a bond to pay.
Important Note: Read the lease agreement carefully! Understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
Tip: Summarize the post in one sentence.
Bonus Tip: Treat your landlord with respect. A little bit of kindness goes a long way, and you never know, they might be the ones fixing that leaky faucet in a timely manner.
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| How To Rent A Property In Melbourne |
Frequently Asked Renting Questions:
How to convince my real estate agent I'm the perfect tenant?
Be prepared, be polite, and bake them some delicious lamingtons (a truly Melbourne treat).
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
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How much bond do I usually need to pay?
Typically, the bond is equivalent to one month's rent.
How soon can I move in?
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
It depends on the property, but generally, you can expect to move in within a few weeks of your application being approved.
What if I don't have a rental history in Australia?
Speak to the real estate agent and offer additional references, such as from employers or character references.
What happens if my application gets rejected?
Don't despair! Keep applying, and be open to different suburbs or property types. Remember, there's a perfect Melbourne flat out there waiting for you.
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