Post by Ellie
Los Angeles can be a tough city to find a good rental. And often when you do find that perfect rental, there are a ton of other applicants who want it just as bad. That is why it is so important to really impress the landlord upfront by submitting a complete application. You need to stand out of the crowd and make sure you get that perfect rental.
How exactly do you do this?
Keep reading for tips on how to increase your chances in getting your dream place:
a) As I mentioned in my previous post, submit a complete application – don’t take shortcuts.
b) Be upfront with any issues that may arise in the application process: evictions, credit issues, landlord tenant frictions, etc. If we know about it in advance, we can help make your case by gathering all the proper info upfront.
c) You can write a quick note to the owner sharing a little about yourself and why you want to live in their property. I know it’s a bit corny, but it works!
d) Be prepared, or at least flexible, to sign a lease that will start immediately (ideally within the next week or so). If the property has multiple applicants the landlord usually accepts with the one who is ready to move in now – not the one who still has to give a 30 day notice.
f) You may be tempted to offer a rent below the listed price. But did you know that some people offer more than the listed price? Does it work? – Sometimes. If there is already an approved applicant, a property owner will not dishonor the agreement made with the approved applicant (unless that person is not prepared to sign the lease). It’s an idea, but it doesn’t always work.
g) Usually the best way to beat the crowd is to be on top of things and become a VIP member. As a VIP member, you will receive free updates on new properties so you get to know about them as soon as they hit the market. When you get a VIP notification, pay close attention to the add features, map view and of course the virtual tour. If you believe the place will be the one for you, show up to the 1st showing with your complete application! Be on top of it with new listings, be the 1st to see it and the 1st to apply! Be complete in your application and be prepared with funds! Be ready not only to sign the lease, but to sign a lease that will start right away.
And that dream place can be yours!!!
