Renting a great apartment in Australia can be challenging. And this makes the competition for available spaces a lot tighter. An essential part of the application process undertaken by prospective tenants is writing a great cover letter.
A cover letter for tenants is just like cover letters for job applications. Yes! That's why it sounds so familiar. The goal of a cover letter is to present the tenant in the best light to the landlord. The cover letter summarises all of the crucial facts and details in the application, demonstrating why someone would be a good tenant.
When writing a cover letter, there are several factors, but the best one might be sufficiently answering the all-important question house owners ask, ""Why is this property right for you?"". Essentially, they want to see good reasons why the tenant thinks the property is a right fit for them. After all, it's a lot more than a casual decision.
What should a cover letter include?
There are a variety of metrics or boxes required to tick when writing a winning cover letter.
A cover letter should be addressed to the person in charge of the tenancy and include the following information:
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Data about the applicant
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Some information about their hobbies and lifestyle
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Working background and other personal information
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Tenants should also describe why they're moving and think they'd enjoy the property. Make sure to include the property's exact address.
You also need to show you understand your obligations as a tenant and why you believe you would make an excellent fit for the landlord's home - adding photographs can build a personal connection between the property manager and the intending tenant. Putting a face to the profile helps make the information real.
Michelle Wilde, the principal of Stella Property in Queensland, an experienced professional in the business, states that applicants must demonstrate that the prospective tenant can pay on time, be responsible, and care for the property. ""If a renter has had a problem or disagreement with a former property manager, it is the biggest red flag"".
Why is this property right for you?
On many application forms, tenants are asked to respond to a basic question: ""Why is this property appropriate for you?""
The key is to get personal about your answer. An answer genuinely enveloping how you feel about the property would resonate better with the property manager than an answer that sounds robotic and cliche. Also, remember not to get carried away; the letter should remain as formal as possible.
Furthermore, this question is a method for candidates to talk frankly and honestly about why they desire the property. It is a one-shot chance to pitch to the property manager, so it's important to convey your feelings as accurately and convincingly as possible.
Trish Mewett, a Jim's Real Estate franchisee, advised potential renters to talk passionately about how the home fits into their lives. ""Speak from the heart, but don't go overboard to the point where it seems implausible, since this may put managing agents off your application.""
Example of a cover letter for a rental
Here's an example of a good cover letter.
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(Applicant current address)
(City, postcode)
(Phone number)
(Date)
(Agent name)
(Agent address)
(City, postcode)
Subject; Application cover letter for (address of property)
Dear (name of property manager or landlord)
My name is (applicant name), and I would like to formally apply for the rental property at (address) as advertised at (URL).
I previously lived at (address) for (amount of time) and paid (amount of weekly) rent. Before that, from (start date) to (end date), I lived at (address). Both properties were rented, and I have included my previous landlords as references in my attached application.
I work (full-time/part-time) and earn (amount) weekly, so I am more than able to cover the (amount) weekly rent. I have been employed for (time period) and consider my employment status as secure, and myself to be financially buoyant.
I crave the opportunity to bring more ease into my life, so I'm particularly interested in this property because of the nearby amenities, proximity to public transport and easy commute to my workplace.
I am quiet, reserved and respectful of others' privacy and have always had good relationships with my previous landlords, who are very happy and readily available to speak to that.
My reserved demeanour doesn't stand in my way of being a great neighbour, and although I enjoy socialising every now and then, I like my home to be a peaceful place.
I have included the rental application and all relevant identification documents along with my cover letter.
I'm looking for a stable tenancy and hope you will consider my application favourably. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
(Applicant signature)
(Applicant name, typed)
(Applicant phone number)
(Applicant email address)