Renting a new home comes with a lot of ins and outs. Once you’ve found the property you’ve decided is the best fit for you and your family, all left to do is submit your application and wait to be approved. That wait can sometimes be unbearable. So how do we ensure that the wait isn’t a waste? What can we do to make our applications appealing and stand out? You’re in luck; we’ll review a few items to ensure your rental application is approved.

Cover Letters

Cover letters are not just for jobs but are also useful when submitting rental applications. In your letter, make sure to add details that highlight your interest in the property and capability to be a good tenant, such as:

• Why do you want to move into the rental
• Why you would be a good tenant
• Your history as a renter
• Your current employment situation
• Notify the landlord that references can be available if requested

The cover letter does not have to be lengthy; one or two paragraphs are more than enough to convince the landlord you would be a good fit. However, emphasize your interest in why you would be the ideal tenant.

Include All Required Documentation

When submitting your application, include all the required information and documentation the first time around so the landlord does not have to chase you for details. Information that can typically be included is:

• Rental Application
• Drivers licence
• Paystubs and last tax return
• Social security number
• Rental history
• References
• Job history

An application with all the necessary details makes your life easier, as does the landlord’s, and it puts you on a pedestal above other applications lacking details. The goal is to convince the landlord that you have all the necessary information, and that everything checks out. This makes you a desirable candidate, showing you are very organized and prepared.

Manage Your Credit Score

Your credit score shows how reliable you could be as a tenant. If your score is not up to par, look at steps that you can take to improve your score in the shortest time. Paying down debts and paying your bills on time moving forward can significantly impact you.

Share Quality References

To portray your candidacy in the best light, drop in references from previous landlords or employers with whom you’ve had good experiences so they can put in a good word if required. This could take a while, but if it helps you get your rental application approved, it’s all worth it.

The Ideal Candidate

To become the perfect candidate, you must know what landlords look for. Responsibility in a tenant is key. Landlords want someone who respects the property and pays their bills promptly without hassle or delay. Landlords also look at how many people will be living in the property. The more people there are, the higher the risk of damage to the rental. This ratio depends on rooms to residents.

Overall, selecting a rental for you to live in is a tedious enough job, so don’t be afraid to go all out when completing your rental application.

Buckeye Northwest Realty offers homes and apartments for rent in and around Toledo, Ohio. For more information or to find your next perfect home, contact us today!