This guide will help you understand what to look for in a rental property and the right questions to ask during your house-hunting journey.

1. Understanding your needs before house hunting

Before you dive into the rental market, take time to understand your needs. This will help you focus on rental properties that suit your lifestyle and budget.

• Start by defining your budget

This is one of the most important steps in house hunting, as it will save you time looking at rental properties outside your financial range. Consider rent, utilities, and other living expenses, such as internet and transport, and be realistic about what you can afford. As a general rule, keep your rent at no more than 30% of your monthly income.

• Next, identify your must-haves

Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and other amenities that are non-negotiable for you. For example, a pet-friendly rental property is essential if you have a furry friend. Other features might include air conditioning, a dishwasher, an enclosed garage, or an outdoor space.

• Finally, consider location and lifestyle

Do you need to be close to work, school, or public transport? Do you want a nearby neighbourhood with parks, shops, or dining options? Once you’ve narrowed your location preferences, you can look for rental properties that tick those boxes.

Answering these questions will help you narrow your property search and avoid wasting time on unsuitable rental properties.

2. What to look for when renting a house

Once you’ve found potential rental properties, it’s time to assess them thoroughly.
When inspecting a rental property, there are several key things you should look for to ensure the property is in good condition and safe to live in.

• First, assess the condition of the rental property

Ensure it meets your needs and appears well-maintained by the landlord. Look for any signs of damage to the rental property, such as cracked walls, mould, or water stains, which could indicate more significant issues like leaks or poor maintenance. Check the ceilings, floors, and corners of rooms, as these are common areas where damage may be more apparent.

• Next, check the safety features

Ensure the property has smoke alarms, secure doors and windows, and sufficient lighting in common areas. Security is paramount, especially in an unfamiliar neighbourhood. Don’t hesitate to ask the property manager if additional security measures are in place, such as alarms or CCTV systems.

• Consider the energy efficiency

Properties with solar panels and energy-efficient appliances can save on utility bills. Look for these features during your inspection to ensure you’re choosing a property that will be cost-effective in the long run.

• Don’t forget about outdoor space

Consider the size and maintenance of gardens or patios. Check whether it’s well-maintained and whether you’ll be responsible for upkeep.

• Lastly, check parking availability

Does the property have off-street parking, or will you need to apply for a permit to park on the street? Consider parking availability for guests and whether it’s convenient for your lifestyle.

The property manager will provide a detailed property condition report as part of your rental tenancy.

3. What to look for in a rental property location

Choosing the right location is just as important as finding the right property. The location can significantly impact your daily life and overall experience as a good tenant.

Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Neighbourhood safety

Start by researching the neighbourhood’s safety. Check local crime rates and speak to neighbours to get a feel for how secure the area is. If you’re moving to a new city, online forums and local community groups can be great resources for understanding neighbourhood safety.

• Noise levels

Noise can also be a dealbreaker. Visit the area at different times of the day to gauge the noise. Some streets may seem quiet during the day but could become much noisier at night due to nearby traffic or nightlife.

• Local facilities

Look at the availability of local shops, healthcare services, and schools. Walk around the neighbourhood to see if it has the amenities you’ll need, and consider how the proximity of these facilities might impact your daily routine.

• Public transport

Consider how accessible public transport options are. If you rely on public transport, ensure there are nearby stations or bus stops that align with your daily routine.

• Future developments

Planned construction or major infrastructure changes can affect your quality of life and property values. It’s a good idea to ask the property manager or real estate agent about any upcoming developments in the area.

These checks ensure your new rental home meets your current lifestyle and accommodates future changes.

4. Questions to ask at a house inspection

A house inspection is the perfect time to gather as much information as possible about the property. Here are some essential questions to ask during your inspection:

Are there any current issues with the property?

Ask about ongoing maintenance problems, such as leaks, plumbing issues, or pest infestations. This can give you insight into the property’s condition and whether the landlord is responsive to issues.

How are maintenance requests handled?

Find out if a process involved to submit maintenance requests.

Are utilities included in the rent?

It’s important to know whether you’ll be responsible for paying separately for water, gas, or electricity. This information will help you budget more accurately.

What changes can tenants make to the property?

Some landlords allow tenants to make minor changes like painting or hanging shelves, while others have strict rules about modifications. Be clear on this before signing the tenancy agreement.

These questions will help you make an informed decision and safeguard your rights as a tenant.

5. Questions to ask the real estate agent when renting

In addition to asking about the property, gathering key details about the lease and your tenancy agreement is crucial.

Some questions to ask the real estate agent include:

What is the length of the lease agreement?

Some landlords may prefer short-term leases, while others may offer longer terms with the option to renew. If you plan to stay in the rental property for several years, ensure there’s flexibility in renewing the lease. It’s important to understand these terms so you can plan accordingly.

How is the bond or deposit managed?

Find out how your bond is stored and the return process at the lease’s end. Ensure you understand when it will be returned and under what conditions, as this is often a significant upfront cost. Knowing this can help you get your deposit back in full.

How frequently can the rent be reviewed?

Rent increases can be stressful if unexpected, so it’s good to know how often they occur and the typical procedure. Understanding how and when rent increases are made will help you budget for the future.

Are there any restrictions?

Ask about restrictions, such as whether pets are allowed or if there are rules about renovations or redecorating. Understanding these upfront will help you avoid any potential disputes during your tenancy.

What should I know about property management?

Understanding how the property manager handles emergency and regular maintenance requests is important. Ask which issues will be addressed by them or the landlord and which you’ll need to fix yourself. Additionally, enquire about the schedule for rental inspections and what they involve.

These questions will help you avoid surprises before filling out the rental application.

Making informed decisions when renting a house

Being thorough during your house-hunting process by asking the right questions is vital to finding the right rental home for you.

By using our checklist and carefully considering the questions to ask a real estate agent when renting, you can make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. Take the time to explore your options, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance.

Contact the team at HKY Real Estate to help you find the right rental property. Our experienced real estate agents and property managers across Perth are here to help you navigate the rental market and find your ideal home.

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This article offers a detailed checklist alongside essential tips for moving house, designed to streamline your moving process from start to finish. We’ll help you prepare, pack, and settle into your new home with ease. So, let’s get started and make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Planning your move

Stress levels could quickly rise when moving boxes start piling up and the deadline to move approaches rapidly. The secret to a smooth move is planning. We’re here to show you how to create a realistic moving timeline, breaking down big tasks into manageable chunks, whether you’re selling your current home or looking to buy your first home.

Thinking of selling? Take the first step – Request a sales appraisal today!

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Importance of early planning

Early planning is crucial for a successful move. Preparing your house well in advance gives you ample time to address any unforeseen issues and ensures that everything is organised by the time moving day arrives. A good rule of thumb is to begin planning at least two months before your move.

Create a timeline

Stress levels could quickly rise when boxes start piling up and the deadline to move approaches rapidly. The secret to a smooth move is planning. Create a realistic moving timeline, breaking tasks into weekly goals to make them more manageable.

Budget for your move

Moving can be expensive, so create a budget to avoid any financial surprises. Consider all potential costs, including hiring movers, purchasing packing supplies, and any additional services you might need, such as cleaning or temporary storage. A clear budget will help you manage your expenses and keep your move within your financial limits.

Preparing for moving day

Sorting and decluttering your belongings

Do you still have unpacked boxes from your last move? Before you start packing, take the time to sort through your belongings and declutter your home. Organise a garage sale, donate or sell items you no longer need or use. This reduces the amount you need to pack and makes unpacking easier and more organised in your new home.

Gather packing supplies

Stock up on packing supplies well before you start packing. You’ll need sturdy packing boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, labels and markers. Consider investing in specialty boxes for fragile items such as dishware or electronics. Having all your supplies ready will make the packing process more efficient.

Create an inventory of your items

An inventory list helps you keep track of your belongings during the move. Write down each item and its condition before packing it away. This will be invaluable if any items are lost or damaged during the move and can also help you prioritise which boxes to unpack first in your new home.

Visualise the layout

When preparing for moving day, review your home’s layout and map each room to the floor plan of your new home. Measure the dimensions of each room and furniture, to determine the best placement for each piece, ensuring everything fits perfectly. Mark the destination of each piece, to make it easy for movers to place items in the correct rooms.

Tips for moving house: Packing

Pack room by room

Imagine unpacking boxes in your new place, knowing where everything is because you packed room by room. Start with the rooms you use the least, such as guest rooms or storage areas. Using your map, label each box with the room it belongs to and a brief description of its contents. This will make unpacking much easier.

Label boxes clearly

Clear labelling is essential for an organised move. Use a permanent marker to label each box with its contents and room destination. Colour-coding boxes by room and priority can also be helpful for unpacking. Additionally, mark boxes containing fragile items to ensure they are handled with care.

Pack fragile items safely

Properly packing fragile items can prevent damage during the move. Fill any empty spaces in the boxes with packing paper or soft items like towels to prevent shifting. For extra protection, consider using double-walled boxes for fragile items.

Essential items to keep accessible

Pack a separate box or bag with essential items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This might include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies. Having these essentials easily accessible will make your first night in your new home more comfortable.

Managing moving day

Confirm details with the moving company

Pre-move communication with your moving company is important, as it keeps everyone informed on the situation. Confirm your moving date, time and new address with your removalists a week or two before your move to allow buffer time for addressing any last-minute changes or unexpected situations.

For complex moves, contact them two to three weeks beforehand if you have bulky items, such as pianos, if you’re moving out of a high-rise building, or if you need storage.

Moving yourself?

If you’re doing the heavy lifting, you’ll need the right transportation to avoid unnecessary trips. Rent a suitable vehicle well in advance and check that you have all the equipment you need, such as dollies and moving blankets.

Preparing your old house

Before you leave your old place, do a final walkthrough to ensure that you have secured all the doors and windows, removed all of your possessions, and left the key with the new owner, landlord, or property manager.

Preparing your new house

On moving day, ensure your old and new homes are ready for the movers. Protect floors and doorways from damage by using covers or mats.

Tips for moving house: Utilities and bills

Transferring utilities to your new home

Arrange to transfer your utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, to your new home. Contact all your utility providers a few weeks before your move to schedule the transfer. Ensure that essential services at your new home are activated by the time you arrive.

Final metre readings and payments

Take final metre readings for your utilities and inform your providers. This will ensure you’re only billed for the services you used. Pay any outstanding bills to avoid any future complications.

Tips for moving house: Update your contact details

Update your address with key institutions

Notify key institutions of your address change. This includes your bank, employer, home and contents insurance, and any subscription services. Updating your address promptly will ensure you continue to receive important correspondence.

Plan ahead

Make a note to inform other organisations of your correct address at a later date. Online shopping, doctors and the electoral office are often not urgent, however, can easily be missed once the move is over.

Notify family and friends

Don’t forget to inform your friends and family of your new address. Send out change of address cards or use digital means to notify them. Keeping everyone informed will help you stay connected after your move.

Redirect your mail

So you don’t miss any important mail during the transition, get mail redirected to your new address. Australia Post offers a change of address notification service, along with a mail redirection service.

Tips for moving house: Settling into your new home

Unpacking tips for efficiency

When you arrive at your new home, start unpacking essential items. Then, unpack room by room, prioritising high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bedrooms. Finally, it’s time to unpack your personal belongings, photos, artwork and interior decor. This approach will help you settle in quickly and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Make your new house feel like home

Personalise your new home by arranging furniture, hanging pictures, and adding personal touches. Creating a familiar and comfortable environment will help you feel at home faster and ease the transition.

Security and safety

Once you’re in your new home, prioritise security and safety. Change the locks, test smoke detectors, and familiarise yourself with the layout of your home in case of an emergency.

Get to know your neighbourhood

Take some time to explore your new neighbourhood. Introduce yourself to your neighbours, locate nearby amenities such as supermarkets and pharmacies, and learn the best routes for your daily commute.

Ready to make your move?

Whether selling your property or stepping into your new dream home, the journey requires meticulous planning and a strategic approach. Our tips for moving house are designed to make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

At HKY Real Estate, we understand that moving is more than just a physical process – it’s a significant life event. Our experienced team of real estate agents and property managers are here to guide you through every step, from listing your old home to handing over the keys to your new one.

Take the next step with HKY Real Estate

Ready to sell your current home, or looking to buy in the vibrant Perth market? HKY Real Estate is your trusted local agency committed to helping you achieve your real estate goals. With a team of highly qualified professionals, we ensure that every part of your selling, buying, or moving process is handled with care and expertise.

Contact us today to discover how we can make your real estate experience exciting and utterly seamless. Let’s make your next move together!

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10 qualities of a good tenant

1. A detailed application

A thorough and meticulously filled-out rental application is the first sign of a conscientious tenant. It demonstrates an individual’s seriousness about the tenancy and provides landlords with the necessary information to conduct background and reference checks. A detailed rental application should include current and previous employment, rental history, references, and any other information that can attest to the applicant’s reliability and stability.

2. Good rental history

A tenant’s past can often predict their future behaviour. A good rental record, with positive feedback from previous landlords or property managers, indicates a pattern of responsible tenancy. The tenant’s rental history reassures landlords of a tenant’s credibility, showcasing their consistency in paying rent on time, maintaining the rental property, and adhering to lease agreements.

3. Open communication

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful landlord-tenant relationship. Tenants who proactively communicate with their landlord about repairs, maintenance issues, or other concerns demonstrate responsibility and respect for the property. Open lines of communication can prevent minor issues from escalating and ensure that both parties are always on the same page.

4. Pay rent on time

Timeliness in rent payments is perhaps the most critical quality of a good tenant. It reflects financial stability and reliability, directly impacting the landlord’s ability to manage their property. Consistent on-time payments build trust and reduce the administrative burden of chasing late payments.

5. Treat the property as your own

Tenants who treat the rental property with the same care as they would their own home are invaluable. This includes keeping the property clean, maintaining the gardens and reporting maintenance in a timely manner. Good tenants maintain the property’s value and contribute to a positive and long-lasting landlord-tenant relationship.

6. Address maintenance issues

A good tenant pays attention to maintenance issues or property damage that could potentially worsen over time. Instead, they promptly report problems to the landlord or property manager, helping to preserve the property’s condition and value. By addressing emergency or maintenance issues early, tenants can prevent more significant problems and expenses later on.

7. Accommodates landlords and property managers

Cooperation with the landlord or property manager, especially regarding access to the property for repairs or rent inspections and being considerate towards neighbours, reflects a tenant’s understanding and respect for the rental agreement. Accommodating tenants makes property management smoother and fosters a positive living environment for everyone involved.

8. Adheres to obligations and terms of the tenancy agreement

Following the lease terms, from restrictions on alterations to the property to the proper use of facilities, signifies a tenant’s respect for their contractual obligations. This adherence includes being upfront and honest about who is living in the property, and ensuring that all occupants are included in the lease agreement to avoid potential legal and safety issues.

9. Upfront and honest

Honesty is a fundamental attribute of a good tenant. This means being upfront about one’s financial situation, and immediately disclosing any changes that might affect the ability to pay rent. In addition, tenants who are transparent about their living situation, including being upfront about who resides in the property, ensure that trust is maintained in the tenant-landlord relationship.

An upfront and honest approach prevents misunderstandings and potential breaches of the lease, and a straightforward relationship with their landlord.

10. Long-term tenancy

Tenants who view their rental as a long-term home are more likely to invest in the relationship with their landlord and the care of the property. A desire for stability indicates a tenant’s intention to stay for an extended period, reducing turnover and vacancy rates for the landlord.

Mutual benefits for the tenant, property manager and landlord

Identifying and nurturing these ten qualities in a tenant can significantly contribute to a harmonious and prosperous landlord-tenant relationship. For landlords, selecting tenants who exhibit these characteristics can lead to a stress-free property management experience. For prospective tenants, embodying these qualities can enhance their desirability as renters, making it easier to find and retain a home they love.

Enjoy hassle-free tenancy with HKY Real Estate

Whether you are a landlord striving to find the perfect tenant or a prospective renter aiming to stand out as the ideal candidate, understanding these key traits can significantly impact your success.

At HKY Real Estate, our experienced property managers are dedicated to guiding you through the intricacies of screening tenants, tenant selection and the leasing process. With our expertise, we can help you navigate the competitive market, ensuring that your property is matched with quality tenants who embody these essential qualities.

If you’re seeking professional advice on renting out your investment property or assistance with any aspect of property management, contact our friendly team. Let HKY Real Estate be your partner in achieving a hassle-free and rewarding tenancy experience.

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Understanding damage vs. Fair wear and tear

Differentiating between damage and what is considered fair wear and tear is fundamental in rental property management.

Neglectful damage refers to the normal deterioration of the property’s condition beyond normal use, like deliberately broken locks or holes in walls.

In contrast, ‘fair wear and tear’ describes the natural and inevitable ageing process of a property and its fixtures through normal use, such as worn carpets or faded curtains.

Understanding these distinctions is vital for fair property management and dispute resolution.

Distinguishing between accidental and malicious damage

Understanding the difference between accidental and malicious damage is crucial in rental property management.

Accidental damage happens suddenly and unexpectedly, like spilling wine on the carpet or denting a wall while moving furniture. It’s distinct from general wear and tear, which occurs gradually.

Conversely, malicious damage is caused intentionally or with harmful intent by the tenant or someone legally on the premises. This is different from deliberate but non-malicious actions, such as installing shelves or hanging paintings.

Common types of tenant-inflicted damage

Various forms of damage can be inflicted by tenants, ranging from minor issues to severe damages. Common instances include broken windows, damaged appliances or excessive marks on walls. Addressing these problems promptly is essential to prevent extensive repairs and to maintain the property’s market value.

Strategies to prevent tenant damage

Landlords can minimise damage through rigorous tenant screening, clear rental agreements outlining emergency or maintenance responsibilities, and educating tenants about proper property care.

Appointing a property manager

Landlords can significantly reduce the risk by choosing the right property manager, who brings expertise in handling tenant relations and property maintenance. An experienced property manager can assist with rental applications, tenant screening and setting clear property care guidelines. Regular maintenance checks further help in identifying and addressing minor issues before they escalate.

Conducting regular property inspections

Scheduled inspections allow landlords to identify and address potential damages early on. These inspections should be thorough, covering all visible aspects of the property to spot signs of damage, whether accidental or malicious. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the extent and cost of repairs.

Documentation and record-keeping

Maintaining detailed records of the property’s condition is crucial for managing rented premises, at move-in and throughout the tenancy is vital. This documentation should include thorough property condition reports, date-stamped photos of the property’s condition at move-in and move-out, and records of all communications and repairs. These documents are invaluable in case of disputes or insurance claims.

Resolving tenant-caused damage

When damage occurs, it’s important to approach resolution constructively. This involves assessing reasonable wear or damage, communicating effectively with tenants, and agreeing on repair responsibilities and timelines. If damage exceeds normal wear and tear, landlords may need to use the security deposit or seek further compensation.

Legal implications and managing insurance

The legal interpretation of property damage varies by location. Both landlords and tenants should be well-informed about the local laws and regulations about rental agreements and property damage.

Landlord insurance plays a critical role in protecting against financial loss due to tenant-caused damage. Owners should ensure landlords insurance policies cover such damages, and both parties need to understand the process for filing claims and obtaining compensation.

Take the stress out of property management with HKY

Successfully managing rental property damage is about balancing prevention, regular monitoring, and transparent communication. With the right strategies and understanding, landlords can protect investment property value and ensure a mutually beneficial rental experience.

For professional assistance in managing your Perth rental property, consider HKY Real Estate. Our team of experienced property managers are adept in the local rental market, offering comprehensive support in all aspects of property management.

Contact our experienced property management team to find out more.

Damage to rental property by tenant FAQs

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In this article, we will explore some tips for increasing your rent as a landlord.

Why increasing rent is important

As a landlord, increasing your rent can be important for several reasons.

First and foremost, increasing rent can help you cover the rising cost of property taxes, maintenance, repairs, and other expenses associated with owning and leasing a rental property.

By increasing your rent, you can ensure that you are able to cover these costs and maintain the quality of your property.

Additionally, increasing rent can help you keep up with inflation and changes in the rental market. If the demand for rental properties in your area is high, it may be appropriate to increase rent to reflect the market value of your property.

Similarly, if the cost of living in your area is rising, increasing your rent can help you keep up with these changes.

Increasing your rent can also help you ensure that your rental property remains profitable. As a homeowner, your rental property is an investment, and it is important to ensure that your investment is generating a return.

Of course, it is important to approach rent increases in a responsible and reasonable way. Rent increases should be fair and appropriate, and should take into account the needs and circumstances of your tenants.

By increasing rent in a responsible and transparent way, you can ensure that your rental property remains profitable while also maintaining a positive relationship with your tenants.

1. Review your lease agreement

Your lease agreement should outline the terms and conditions under which you can increase your tenants’ rent.

In Western Australia, it’s important for both landlord and tenant to understand the differences between periodic and fixed-term tenancies, as the laws on rent increases differ depending on the type of residential tenancy.

Periodic tenancy:

A periodic agreement with no predetermined finish date. Periodic agreements continue until either the tenant or landlord gives the appropriate notice to end it. Rent increases can occur no less than every 6 months.

Fixed-term tenancy:

Fixed term agreements include a set tenancy period with specific start and finish dates. A fixed term agreement provides more security for both the tenant and landlord. Rent increases can only occur during a fixed term lease, if the lease had provisions for this and the amount and method of the rent increase documented within the terms before signing.

If your fixed-term agreement ends and you continue to rent the same property on a new agreement, the first 30 days of a new and continuing lease can only be at the old rental rate.

Make sure you review the tenancy agreement carefully to ensure that you are following the proper procedures and providing adequate notice to your tenants.

2. Provide enough notice of the increase

As a homeowner, it is important to give your tenants enough rent increase notice and know when rent can be increased. This can help them prepare financially and make any necessary adjustments to their budget.

According to the Department of Mines, Industry Regulations and Safety, if a rent increase was documented in the terms of a fixed term agreement, they can only take place no less than every 6 months after the start of the tenancy agreement and the date of the last increase.

The landlord has to also give at least 60 days notice in writing. The first 30 days of a new and continuing lease will be at the old rental rate to comply with the Residential Tenancies Act.

3. Explain the reason for the increase

When communicating rental increases to your tenants, be transparent about the reasons for the increase. Provide them with the evidence to support the increase, such as a comparative market analysis, showing recently leased properties of similar size, condition and location.

When you are upfront about the reasons for a rental increase, your tenants are more likely to see it as a necessary and reasonable step and are less likely to feel that they are being treated unfairly. This can help to maintain a positive and productive relationship between you and your tenants.

4. Consider rent negotiations

Depending on your tenants’ circumstances, they may request a negotiation on the rent increase. Be open to discussing their concerns and coming to a mutually agreeable solution.

5. Offer incentives when increasing rent

If you are increasing rent significantly, consider offering your tenants some incentives to help offset the increase. Catch up on any overdue maintenance, install improved security or freshen up the interior or exterior of the home.

How much can a landlord increase the rent?

Deciding how much to increase your rent can be a difficult decision, as you want to ensure that you are charging a fair and appropriate price that is both profitable and reasonable for your tenants.

One important factor to consider is the rental market in your area. Research the current market rents for similar properties in your area to get a sense of what a fair and competitive price would be.

If you have made improvements or upgrades to the property since the last rent increase, you may want to consider a rent appraisal to reflect the added value that these improvements bring.

Inflation is another factor to consider when deciding on a rent increase. If the cost of living in your area has risen since the last rent increase, you may need to adjust your rent to keep up with these changes.

Maintenance costs are an ongoing expense for landlords, and it is important to ensure that your rent covers these costs. If your maintenance costs have increased since the last rent increase, you may need to adjust your rent accordingly, but still ensuring the price is within the current market for the area, location, size and condition of the home.

It is also important to consider the impact of a rent increase on your tenants. If the rent increase is too high, it may lead to tenant turnover, which can be costly and disruptive.

How often should you increase your rent?

How often you should increase your rent depends on a number of factors.

In general, it is a good practice to review every 6 – 12 months. This allows you to stay up-to-date with market trends, inflation, and any changes in maintenance and improvement costs.

It also provides a consistent timeline for tenants to expect potential rent increases and budget accordingly.

However, it is important to keep in mind that each situation may be unique and may require more or less frequent rent increases.

Ultimately, the decision to increase rent and the frequency of rent increases should be made with careful consideration of your unique circumstances and goals as a homeowner.

Hire a professional property manager

Are you tired of the hassle and stress that comes with managing your rental property?

Let HKY Real Estate take the burden off your shoulders! Our team of experienced property managers will ensure that your property is always in top shape and that your tenants are happy.

With our comprehensive rental property management services, you can rest easy knowing that your investment is in good hands.

Contact us today to learn more about how a property manager can help you maximise your rental property’s potential.

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In this article, we will explore the key information to include in your rental property application.

Personal information

Your full name, current address, contact information, and a copy of your ID.

The personal information section of a rental application is one of the most important sections, as it provides the landlord or property manager with key details about you as a potential tenant. In this section, you should include your full legal name, date of birth, current address, and contact information such as phone number and email address.

It’s also important to include a copy of your government-issued photo identification, such as your driver’s licence or passport, to verify your identity. This helps to ensure that you are who you say you are and that you have not provided false information on your application.

Additionally, if you have any pets, make sure to include information about them in this section as well. This includes their breed, size, and age. Some landlords or property managers may have restrictions on certain breeds or sizes of pets, so it’s important to be upfront and honest about your pets from the beginning.

Overall, the personal details section of your rental application is your chance to provide the landlord, real estate agents or property manager with a clear and accurate picture of who you are as a potential tenant.

By providing complete and honest information, you’ll demonstrate that you’re a responsible and trustworthy renter, which can increase your chances of being approved as a suitable tenant.

Employment and income information

The employment details and income information section of a rental application is an important part of the process for a landlord or property manager to assess your ability to pay rent on time. In this section, you will be asked to provide information about your current employment status, employer’s contact information, and income.

You should include details about your current job, such as the name of your employer, your job title, and how long you have been employed there. This will help the landlord or property manager verify your employment and assess your stability as a tenant.

You will also be asked to provide your monthly income, which includes your salary or wages, bonuses, commissions, or any other sources of income. You may be required to provide proof of your income, such as recent pay slips or bank statements. You can also include any additional income, such as child support, alimony, or investment income.

This is because real estate agents and property managers will use your income and liabilities to calculate your affordability ratio which gives them an idea of whether you can afford to rent the property or not.

If you have a co-applicant or spouse who will also be living in the rental home, they need to complete all sections of any applications too, even if they are not working or don’t have an income.

Rental history

The rental history section of a rental application is an important part of the process for a landlord or property manager to assess your suitability as a tenant. In this section, you will be asked to provide details about your previous rental experiences, including the landlord or real estate agents contact information, the address of the property, amount of rent paid and the duration of your stay.

If you have had any issues with previous landlords, such as late rent payments, property damage, or lease violations, it’s best to be honest and upfront about them. You can explain any extenuating circumstances and describe what you did to resolve the situation.

It’s also important to include information about why you’re moving out of your current rental property. If you’re leaving due to a job transfer or other life change, be sure to explain this in your application.

References

Before listing someone as an employment or living history reference, be sure to ask for their permission and let them know that they may be contacted by the landlord or property manager. Having them know how important it is to respond in a timely manner to a reference request will help your application be presented to a landlord quicker. You can also provide them with information about the rental properties you’re applying for and why you think you would be a good fit.

Additional information

Any additional information that may strengthen your application, such as a cover letter, recommendation or positive rental history.

Make sure to fill out the rental application completely and honestly, and provide any additional information or documentation that the landlord or property manager requests.

This will help you stand out as a responsible and trustworthy tenant, and increase your chances of getting approved for the rental property.

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Rent inspections are conducted so your landlord can check the property is being well maintained in a clean and tidy condition and any maintenance issues reported and checked.

If you’re unprepared, these routine inspections can quickly cause stress. However, if you’re well-prepared, you can easily show your landlord that the rental property is in good condition and that you’re taking care of it.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to prepare for a rent inspection so that you can put your best foot forward!

Purpose of Routine Rent Inspections

Property managers routinely inspect rental properties for two main reasons:

1. To ensure the property is well cared for
2. To ensure that any maintenance or repair issues have been addressed

When inspecting your rental property, property managers will go through and check the following:

• Check it’s well maintained, clean and tidy
• Check the garden is maintained (i.e. lawn has been mowed, weeds removed)
• Ensure that only the people on the rental agreement are living in the home
• Make sure there are no traces of pets living in the property (if stated they are not allowed on the rental agreement)
• Ensure there are no damages to the property and that all maintenance issues have been reported

6 Tasks to Help You Prepare for Your Rent Inspection

1. Organise Clutter

While your property manager won’t be assessing how tidy of a person you are, the home does need to be reasonably clear, allowing your landlord to walk through and easily inspect the structure of the home.
Simply ensuring the floor and surfaces are clear of unnecessary items will go a long way in ensuring your rent inspection runs smoothly.

2. Clean the Home

Your property manager will be checking the property is being kept in a clean state.

Items routinely checked include:

• Entire home: Ceilings, walls, floors, doors, lights, etc.
• Kitchen: Oven, rangehood filters and exhaust fan covers for build-up of oil and dust
• Bathroom & Toilet: Shower, sink, and toilet for any build-up of mould and residual debris

Much like the first step, the home needs to be reasonably clean so your property manager can identify scratches or further damage to the floors and surfaces that dust may hide.

Tip: Bathrooms are also important areas to keep clean as mould can begin to form in a humid and dark environment. So, when showering, use the exhaust fan or keep a window slightly open to allow the steam to dissipate.

3. Tend to the Garden

Even if you don’t spend much time in the property garden, it is important to maintain the property landscaping.
Some properties are more complex than others, but here are the main tasks you should consider:

• Weed the garden
• Trim hedges
• Mow and edge the lawn
• Raking up any debris
• Remove any cobwebs

4. Fix any Damage

It’s important to fix any damage or maintenance issues that have occurred in the rental property before the rent inspection as this will be noted down and could affect your bond return.

Damages can include holes in the walls, scratches on floors or surfaces, and defective fittings.
If you don’t have time to conduct repair before the inspection, inform your property manager of the damages and your plans for repair. Then your property manager can arrange a reinspection of the area once repairs are completed.

5. Review your Records

It is important to read through your lease agreement before your rent inspection to ensure you haven’t missed any clauses. This will also prepare you to ask your landlord any questions about your tenancy or answer any questions they may have for you.

Reviewing your documents is also helpful to remind you of the type of lease you are on and when your renewal date is.
If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask your property manager for clarification.

Also, if your details (phone number or email address) have changed, it’s best to notify your property manager as soon as possible to ensure the lines of communication remain open.

6. On the Day of the Inspection

On the day of the inspection, it’s important to:

• Make sure any pets are secured during the rental inspection
• If any maintenance or repair issues have popped up, make note of these and ensure the maintenance request forms have been sent to your property manager as they occur. Don’t wait to report these until the day of inspection.

What Happens After the Rental Inspection?

After every routine inspection, your landlord or property manager will send you an inspection report which will note the condition and any maintenance problems the tenants should see to before the next inspection.

Rental Inspections at HKY Real Estate

At HKY, our team of professional property managers are highly qualified and experienced in delivering great results for both property owners and tenants.

If you want to lease your Perth property or simply want to discuss your options, speak to us at HKY Real Estate about our property management services today. We will team you with the best property manager to suit your needs.

Rental Property Inspection FAQs

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