Quick reference

REA Group tools and resources checklist

Use these free digital tools to streamline your search: 

• Realestate.com.au app: Set up "Saved Searches" for your preferred suburbs and price range. 

• Ignite / 2Apply profile: Create your digital rental profile once so you can apply for properties with a single click. 

• Suburb profiles: Research median rents and local amenities on realestate.com.au to see if an area fits your budget. 

• Flatmates.com.au: Use the "Room Wanted" profile to let potential housemates find you. 

Property inspection checklist

Take this list with you to every viewing. If you can’t tick these off, ask the agent for more details: 

• Safety: Are there working smoke alarms and secure locks on all doors and windows? 

• Connectivity: Do you have mobile reception inside the house? Where is the NBN/internet point? 

• Plumbing: Do the taps have good pressure, and does the toilet flush properly? 

• Appliances: Are the oven, stove, and heater in working order? 

• Conditions: Look for signs of mould, damp, or pests inside cupboards and on ceilings. 

• Storage: Is there enough room for your bed, fridge, and clothes? 

Application document checklist

Have these documents scanned and ready in a single folder on your phone or computer: 

• Primary ID (70 pts): Passport or Birth Certificate. 

• Secondary ID (40 pts): Driver’s Licence, Proof of Age Card, or Student ID. 

• Supporting ID (20 pts): Medicare Card, Bank Card, or recent Utility Bill. 

• Proof of income: Last 3–4 payslips or a current Centrelink Income Statement. 

• Rental history: A rental ledger from your previous agent (if applicable). 

• References: Contact details (phone and email) for 2–3 professional or character references. 

Rental terminology glossary

• Bond: A security deposit (usually 4 weeks' rent) held by a government authority to cover potential damages. 

• Condition report: A document describing the property’s state when you move in; it is your key to getting your bond back. 

• Fixed-term lease: A contract with a set end date (e.g., 6 or 12 months). 

• Periodic lease: A "month-to-month" arrangement that continues until notice is given. 

• Holding deposit: A small fee sometimes paid to "hold" a property while your application is finalised. 

• Rental ledger: An official record of all the rent payments you have made. 

Flatmate agreement template

Use this simple structure to create your own house rules: 

1. The basics: Full names of all residents and the total weekly rent. 

2. Rent & bills: State exactly how much each person pays and the due date. Note if bills (internet, electricity) are included or split evenly. 

3. The bond: Record how much each person contributed and how it will be returned. 

4. House rules: Include agreed-upon rules for cleaning, quiet hours, and overnight guests. 

5. Notice period: Agree on how many weeks' notice someone must give before moving out (usually 2–4 weeks). 

Property maintenance log template

Keep a simple diary (digital or on paper) to track your requests. It is a good idea to track items as below: