Looking for insider advice to help you prepare a standout application? See what current graduate students have to say about their experiences of finding and applying for rental properties in Victoria.
“If you are at an inspection, ensure that as soon as you have received the link, you apply for the place. A lot of estate companies look at applications first come first served basis. Keep documents saved in phone or in the application app itself.” | “Once you're at an inspection, make an effort to connect with the real estate Agent and build rapport so that even if you do not secure the property you've visited, you will hear about more options through the real estate. Try to see if there are properties that have not been listed yet so that you are the first in”. | "Make the application about YOU. While this sounds obvious, majority of the applications will be what is typically asked for in the application portal. These typical portals miss a personalised touch that really portrays who you are. While this will work for established applicants, it will not work for first time renters”. |
“Keep applying continuously! Houses are always coming up in the rental market, keep a notification set for the particular housing type you need in an area”. | “Look at housing provided by independent or small real estate companies (Remember to research real estate companies, it’s always helpful to look at Google reviews). Bigger real estate companies prefer potential tenants to visit the office first”. | “Student accommodation agreements usually end late-January/early July (to align with university intake periods). This makes January and June particularly challenging periods to secure a place, with some inspections attracting around 100 people. Try to start your search before these major intake periods to avoid the competition". |
“It’s always helpful to ask the agent during the inspection what the owner is looking for”. | “Rentals go quickly in Melbourne. If you are interested in a place, where possible try to go to the first rental inspection available, especially if it is a weekday time. Weekends are busier and often not the first inspection, so the house might already be under application. Introduce yourself to the real estate agent to make a good impression. Have your documents ready and know the agency’s application process. Always inspect the house before applying.” | "It is easier to apply once you arrive in Australia. They will ask for your Australian number and address, so it might be harder if you apply from your original country. I recommend that future students use temporary accommodation first before signing a long-term rental agreement. It also helped me find suitable properties since I already knew my needs (such as distance from campus, public amenities, and options for public transportation”). |
Don’t be disheartened if you’re application isn’t successful! Finding a home can be challenging, especially if you are trying to do so for the first time. You may need to apply to multiple rental properties before finding your new home. It may be helpful to ask the rental provider/agent why your application was unsuccessful, so you can make changes the next time you apply.