Appealing to Landlords and agents

When renting a property, landlords or letting agencies will closely assess your profile to determine whether you’re a reliable and desirable tenant. Renting out a property involves considerable risk for landlords—they need reassurance that rent will be paid on time and that their property will be well maintained. To minimize this risk, they conduct thorough evaluations of potential tenants. In this blog, we’ll cover the key factors landlords typically consider, so you know what to expect and can present yourself in the best possible light.

One of the most important things you can provide as a prospective tenant is strong references. These help to back up what you say about yourself with credible support from others. References can come from previous or current employers, former landlords, or even financial institutions. Each reference will reflect that individual’s experience with you—highlighting your reliability, character, and any relevant skills or behaviours. These insights play a vital role in reassuring landlords that you’re a responsible and trustworthy tenant.

Another crucial step in presenting yourself as a reliable and trustworthy tenant is demonstrating that you can afford the property you’re interested in. There are several ways to do this. First, you should be ready to provide 3 to 6 months of recent payslips from your current employment. You may also be asked to share your credit score—ideally, a score between 600 and 900 is considered most favourable. Additionally, most landlords and agencies look for tenants whose income is at least three times the monthly rent. Lastly, your bank statements may be reviewed to verify your financial stability and confirm your residential address.

While strong references and proof of affordability are the two main factors landlords focus on, there are also a few practical tips that can help you secure a tenancy more easily:

1. Be flexible with viewings and move-in dates – The more accommodating you are, the more appealing you become to a landlord or agency.

2. Have all necessary documents ready – Being organized shows that you’re serious and prepared, which makes the process smoother for everyone.

3. Consider having a guarantor – Especially if your credit score or income is borderline, a guarantor can provide added reassurance to the landlord.

4. Carefully read the tenancy agreement – Make sure you understand all the terms before signing. This helps avoid surprises and shows that you’re responsible.