Outshining Other Tenants: How to Secure Your Dream Rental

Gone are the days when a good reference and a deposit were your golden ticket to a new home. Fast forward to 2024, and you’ll need a bit more flair to land that dream pad. With a 40% increase in tenant numbers since 2019 and a 35% drop in available properties, the rental market is more competitive than ever. Rightmove reports an average of 25 inquiries per listing, up from just 8 pre-pandemic (apocalypse) times. So, how do you go about outshining other tenants in this wacky rental race? Don’t worry, Davies and Davies are here to spill the beans on how to really stand out and snap up that dream abode before anyone else gets a look in…

Speed Is Your Superpower

If flat hunting is a race, then you need to be Usain Bolt. Register your interest in properties as soon as they pop up and be ready to sign the lease faster than you can say garden view. We’d advise that you apply immediately and prove that you’re available to move as soon as possible – with some flexibility if required. Make the landlord’s life easier (and ours), and you’ll be their favourite contender.

Add Some Personality to Your Pitch

While you don’t need to share your life story, a little personal touch can make your application shine. Your background, hobbies, and employment status help paint a picture of who you are. Just skip the part about your love for all-night raves and aversion to cleaning. Think of it like a dating profile and sell your best self, without the trout pout selfies and fishing trip pics. Cute, but not for your landlord.

The Power of References

If you’re serious about outshining other tenants, you’ll want to get your references in order like they’re glowing Google reviews. References from previous landlords will never fail to help your case, as well as employers’. What’s more, having a guarantor is like adding an extra golden layer of credibility. A little like that elusive five-star Uber rating your friend Keith claims they have, but you know they’ve been banned from at least two accounts this year already…

Show You Care

Enthusiasm can make the difference between a no-show and a “you got the flat!”. If you turn up late, you not only run the risk of seeming disinterested, you might actually lose out to an earlier bird. Signs of disinterest can also relegate you to the back of the waiting list. A smiling face and punctuality show respect, making you more memorable. Even if the property isn’t quite love at first sight, fake it til you make it —who knows, you might come back around once you see some other flats for perspective.

Don’t Haggle on Rent

When it comes to outshining other tenants, money talks. Of course, you mustn’t get yourself into debt for the sake of a French window, but be prepared to pay the asking price at least. If you attempt to negotiate lower, you certainly won’t find yourself at the top of the list. It’s like showing up to an auction and lowballing—it rarely works out. If the price is fair, go for it; just don’t overbid without good reason and make sure it’s still within your budget.

Offer a Longer Lease

Can’t stretch that budget? You can always consider offering a longer lease. While a lot of landlords or agencies will be comfortable with a six-month agreement, asking for longer will help your case when it comes to outshining other tenants, and it shows commitment on your part. Just be sure you’re ready for the commitment, and read up on the clause for ending your contract early should you need to.

Keep It Realistic

Sometimes, even your best efforts might not be enough. But if you ensure your documents are ready and your deposit is saved, you’re well on your way. If bad credit or low income is an issue, you might need to adjust your expectations—consider different areas or cheaper properties. You can often use your guarantor, or offer to pay six months up front instead. It’s a tough market, but persistence pays off and there are always options. Then give us a shout – we love coming up with solutions.

As you can see, standing out in today’s rental market is a mix of speed, personality, and strategic moves. Follow our insider tips, and you’ll be well on your way to landing that dream flat in Stroud Green. While you’re at it, follow us on Insta for more tips and tricks on the go…

Contact us:

mark@daviesdavies.co.uk – Sales Director (contact for sales, lettings and new homes)

katrina@daviesdavies.co.uk – Head of Property & Block Management (contact for property and block management)

Davies & Davies Estate Agents, 85 Stroud Green Road, London, N4 3EG

Article & images by Barefaced Studios

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