Preparing your rental application

What landlords and agents are looking for 

Agents want to minimise risk for the property owner. They are primarily looking for three traits: 

• Reliability: Can you pay the rent on time, every time? 

• Transparency: Are you honest about who will be living there and your financial situation? 

• Respect: Will you take care of the home as if you owned it? 

Presenting yourself professionally—being on time for inspections and communicating politely—is the first step to proving these traits. 

Building your rental resume 

A rental resume is a one-page "snapshot" that makes an agent’s job easier. It should include: 

• Contact details: Name, phone, and professional email address. 

• Personal introduction: A short paragraph (2–3 sentences) about who you are, what you do for work or study, and why you want to live in the area. 

• Income overview: Your job title, how long you’ve worked there, or your steady income sources. 

• References: Names and contact details of people who can vouch for you. 

Gathering required documents 

Most agencies use a "100-point ID system" to verify who you are. You should have these scanned and ready in a folder on your phone or computer: 

Rental history (or what to do when you don’t have one) 

If you are moving out for the first time, don't worry—everyone starts somewhere. You can still prove reliability by: 

• Finding a guarantor: A parent or relative who signs a letter promising to pay if you cannot. 

• Showing other payments: Provide proof of on-time phone bills, car loans, or even a record of board paid to family. 

• Using Centrepay: Offering to pay rent directly from your Centrelink payment shows the agent that rent will always be the first thing paid. 

Character references that work 

A good reference isn't just a friend; it’s someone who knows your character in a professional or community setting. 

• Who to ask: Employers, teachers, mentors, sports coaches, or even a long-term neighbor. 

• What they should say: They should confirm you are responsible, quiet, and someone who follows through on commitments. 

• Note: Avoid using close family members if possible, as agents see them as biased. 

Explaining your situation positively and honestly 

Use your cover letter to "frame" your story. Instead of focusing on past struggles, focus on your goals. 

Example: "I am currently transitioning into my first independent home and have been working closely with support services to ensure I am financially prepared for this responsibility". 

Stay focused: Keep it brief (2–3 paragraphs). Mention that you plan to stay long-term and are a quiet, non-smoking tenant. 

Using Launch Housing support as a strength

Having Launch Housing "in your corner" is a major advantage that you should highlight. 

Financial backing: Mention if you are eligible for a Bond Loan or Rentstart to cover move-in costs. 

Support workers: Let the agent know you have a support worker who can act as a professional point of contact if needed. This provides the agent with an extra layer of security and confidence in your application. 

Pets and renting

Pets and renting varies a little state by state, but under Victorian law you have the right to keep a pet, but you must ask the property manager for permission first using an official form. While they can’t unreasonably say no, there are a few things to keep in mind:  

• The request: Once you submit a formal pet request the real estate agency has 14 days to provide a response. If they don’t apply to VCAT (the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal) to stop you in that timeframe, you have permission!  

• Be upfront: It’s always better to be upfront about your pet. Having a “pet resume” with a photo, their temperament, and maybe even a character reference from a friend can go a long way in building trust with a landlord.  

• Sharehouses: If you’re moving into an existing household, check with the current housemates first. Even if the landlord is okay with a pet, your future roomies might have allergies or their own pets to consider.  

Different rules may apply if you’re moving into an apartment building with specific bylaws, so always double-check.