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10 Things Tenant Most Do To Stand Out From The Crowd?
Searching for a new home as a tenant and fall in love at first sight with a particular unit?
The place is everything you hoped and dreamed of, just one problem: there’s stiff competition. Your Realtor said there are several offers drooling over the same unit. You want to make sure that yours rises to the top. How can you stand out from the crowd?
Are you ready to become a tenant?
1. Most Tenant Act Early
If you fall in love with an online listing, contact your Realtor to see if it’s possible to view the unit before any other prospective tenant.
On the day of the showing house, make sure your Realtor has filled out an application on the spot.
2. Make sure
Use that extra time to chat up with your Realtor. Ask questions about the unit and explore if he has other units that meet your criteria.
3. Have your Tenant Lease ledger Ready
Landlords and property managers like to lease to people who have a good record as a tenant.
4. Be Prepared
You can expect most landlords to request some if not all of the following in order to apply for a unit:
- Money order or credit to cover the application fee
- Copies of the last two recent bank statements
- Copies of recent tax returns (low credit)
- Verification of employment and/or employment history
- Contact information for your current landlord
5. Add References as a Tenantt
Want to really seal the deal? Include a reference letter from your employer or a current neighbor who knows you well.
6. Money Talks
If you can afford it, offering to pay a few months’ rent in advance can also help push you to the front of the line.
7. Smart Tenant Sign a Longer Lease
Another way to demonstrate good faith and financial stability is to offer to sign a longer lease than is required. 24 or 36 months give you more opportunities to get the lease.
8. Be Flexible
Landlords hate having an empty unit, prorate days is a good option, be willing to occupy the unit soon and don’t wait until next month. If you can demonstrate flexibility on the move-in date, you’ll earn golden points for making their lives easier.
9. Act Fast
See a place you adore from the get-go? Then act quickly. The landlord will need between 4 to 14 business days to process your rental application before you can sign the lease, and schedule a time to sign the lease the moment that you’re approved.
10. Follow Up Your Tenant Application
Keep yourself top of mind by sending a quick, polite follow-up to your Realtor.
The Virginia Rent Relief Program
Virginia Housing is now administering relief for renters experiencing financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic through the Virginia Rent Relief Program (RRP).
