FAQ"s - Renting a Property in Sydney

“What do I need to complete an application?”

+ A copy of your driver’s licence, passport and visa + A copy of your letter of employment + A written reference (if you have previously rented) + The details for an HR contact who can give a verbal reference and confirm your employment + Copy of pet references if planning on bringing your pets “If I see something I like, is my application likely to be successful (all things being considered)?” There are usually many prospective tenants wishing to inspect properties and often multiple applications for one property. Complete the application form carefully and thoroughly, do not miss anything out.

“Will we work with one real estate agent (realtor) to find a house?”

No, there is no ‘multi-listing’ in Sydney; instead landlords usually list their property exclusively with only one real estate agent. There are hundreds of real estate agents each with their own rent roll and website; all of them also advertise their property vacancies on one or two of the major real estate websites. There are no exclusive lists of properties available to relocation agents.

“Do I have to pay the agent a fee?”

No, there are no tenant fees paid to the Real Estate agent or the landlord. Real Estate agents do not actively search and find rental properties for prospective tenants other than what their own office has on offer. The landlord pays a success fee of approximately two weeks’ rent to the real estate agent.

“Is there a standard contract?”

Yes, the lease contract is a standard document complying with the Residential Tenancies Act and Regulations 2010 and any alterations or additions must not contravene the terms of the Act. “I’m bringing my pet to Australia, will this be a problem in finding somewhere to rent?” Pets such as cats and dogs need to be approved by the landlord. Most apartments have regulations that do not allow any pets and many landlords of houses are reluctant to accept a dog and may select another applicant without pets. Some landlords may ask for additional documents such as references, vaccination documentation, background checks, etc

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