The rental market is becoming increasingly competitive, making it critical for tenants to distinguish themselves as desirable candidates. Landlords and real estate agents screen potential tenants in a variety of ways, so it’s critical to position yourself as a trustworthy and responsible individual. In this article, we will share five top Just Property tips to help you become the ideal tenant and increase your chances of obtaining the rental property you want.
Increase Your Credit Score
When landlords evaluate potential tenants, they look at their financial history as well as their income to determine their ability to pay rent on time and in full. A good credit score can boost your credibility as a tenant significantly. If your credit score is not optimal, you should devote at least six months to improving it. Credit scores are determined by five key factors:
a) Payment history: Paying your bills on time and in full improves your credit score.
b) Debt usage: It is preferable to use a smaller percentage of the total credit available to you.
c) Length of credit history: the longer your credit history, the higher your credit score.
d) Recent activity: Frequent credit applications can lower your score.
e) Credit mix: Having a variety of credit (e.g., credit card, cell phone account, store account) can help your credit score.
Some tenants are concerned that negative experiences or oversights will have a long-term negative impact on their credit. For example, an unpaid balance on a closed Telkom account. If you have concerns about your credit score, you should discuss them with your rental agent. They can offer advice and assist you in navigating potential obstacles.
Be the ideal match
To impress real estate agents and increase your chances of securing a rental property, you must first define your needs. Arriving with a comprehensive list of your preferences saves time for both parties and demonstrates your preparedness. Describe your well-behaved pet if applicable, state your desired level of security, and indicate your proximity preferences to shops, schools, public transportation, and hospitals.
Examine the Small Print
Many tenants are hesitant to question lease clauses, but understanding and agreeing to the terms you are committing to is critical. You can establish a transparent relationship with your landlord or agent by seeking explanations for anything that is unclear or disagreeable. According to Pieter van den Berg, co-owner of Just Property Prosper in Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs, open communication about lease clauses fosters better relationships between tenants and landlords. Furthermore, any potential additional costs beyond the monthly rental must be clarified.
Payments must be made on time.
Once a lease is in place, landlords and managing agents prioritize the timely payment of rent and other costs. This factor is frequently important when providing tenant references to other landlords. Building a track record of on-time payments not only builds trust, but it can also have an impact on the rent you pay. Landlords value good tenants and may be willing to negotiate an annual rent increase in order to keep dependable tenants. Melissa Bee, a Just Property agent for City Bowl, reminds tenants that rental income is critical for landlords to cover their expenses, such as mortgages and property maintenance. Being on time with your payments demonstrates your dependability and respect for the landlord’s financial obligations.
Unexpected events can, of course, disrupt your ability to pay on time. If you experience temporary difficulties, it is critical that you notify your agent as soon as possible. “We understand that life can throw curveballs, such as retrenchment, which can be devastating,” says Liesl Alves of Just Property Blouberg. Solutions can often be found in collaboration by communicating your situation to your agent or landlord as soon as possible.
Take care of the property as if it were your own.
Just Property Prosper’s property portfolio managers manage over 1,000 rental properties, giving them unique insight into what landlords value in tenants. According to Pieter van den Berg, their best tenants treat leased homes as if they were their own. They place a premium on cleanliness both inside and outside the property, and they are proactive in addressing general maintenance and minor repairs.
Excellent tenants, according to Veronique Eachus, a leading Just Property agent in Gqeberga (Port Elizabeth), promptly communicate any issues, such as water leaks or potentially damaging trees or plants. They prevent minor issues from escalating into major concerns by reporting problems at an early stage. Furthermore, when repairs are required, these tenants willingly grant access to contractors or the landlord/agent.
“Great tenants always seek permission before making changes, such as hanging pictures, installing a satellite dish, or painting walls,” Veronique emphasizes. It’s critical to understand that any changes made must be restored to their original condition before leaving the property, according to the lease agreement.
You can position yourself as an ideal tenant by following these top tips, ensuring access to a diverse range of rental properties and cultivating a positive relationship with your landlord and letting agent. Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, also suggests hiring a rental agent to help you price your property correctly and thoroughly screen potential tenants. You can achieve long-term stability and profitability from your rental properties with the assistance of a professional rental agent.
Finally, by presenting yourself as a responsible tenant with a solid financial track record, clear preferences, and a respectful attitude toward the property, you greatly increase your chances of securing your dream rental property.
