🔟 10 Rental Application Mistakes That Are Costing You Your Dream Home

You’ve found the perfect place.

It’s close to work, has a backyard for your dog, and even comes with a dishwasher (the real dream). You hit “apply,” attach a few files, and cross your fingers.

But then… nothing.

Days go by, no response, and the listing disappears. What went wrong?

In a rental market as competitive as Australia’s, even the smallest mistake can get your application ghosted.

Let’s break down the 10 most common rental application mistakes and exactly how to avoid them.

1️⃣ Submitting an Incomplete Application

The fastest way to get your application binned? Missing documents. Property managers don’t have time to chase applicants down, if your file isn’t complete, it’s likely heading straight to the “too hard” pile.

Fix it: Have a rental application checklist ready. Include 100 points of ID, payslips, rental history, cover letter, pet info (if applicable), and references. Bonus points if it’s all in one neat, organized PDF folder.

2️⃣ Ignoring the Cover Letter

Most renters skip the cover letter. That’s a huge missed opportunity. It’s your chance to show personality, explain your situation, and tell the landlord why you’d be a great fit.

Fix it: Write a short, friendly letter. Keep it warm and professional. Or, use AI (like ChatGPT) to generate one for you. Just make sure it’s tailored to the specific property.

3️⃣ Bad or No References

References can make or break your application. A vague “yeah, they were fine” from your old housemate won’t cut it.

Fix it: Use credible references, like a past landlord, property manager, or employer. Let them know ahead of time they might get a call, and give them key talking points.

4️⃣ Using an Unprofessional Email or Voicemail

Yes, your old “party_boi_94@hotmail.com” email might still work, but it’s not giving reliable-tenant vibes. Same goes for a voicemail that says, “Yo, it’s me, leave a message.”

Fix it: Use a clean, professional email. And set a clear voicemail with your name and a friendly tone. First impressions matter.

5️⃣ Forgetting to Follow Up

If you’re not following up, you’re relying on hope. And hope doesn’t get you approved.

Fix it: Send a polite follow-up email or text a day or two after applying. Keep it simple: “Hi [Agent], just checking in on the application for [Property Address]. Let me know if you need anything else!”

6️⃣ No Rental History… and No Explanation

If you’ve never rented before, that’s okay, but you need to explain why. Leaving a blank space raises red flags.

Fix it: Write a short note explaining your situation. Lived at home? Say you’re transitioning to your first independent lease. Back it up with strong references from work or a guarantor.

7️⃣ Not Highlighting Your Strengths

You’re reliable, you’ve got a steady job, and your dog is an angel, but none of that’s in your application?

Fix it: Treat your application like a resume. Use your cover letter to highlight the good stuff. Your financial stability, your clean living habits, your ability to pay rent early if needed.

8️⃣ Failing to Tailor the Application to the Property

Sending the same generic application to every listing? Property managers can tell.

Fix it: Customize your cover letter. Mention specific features you love about the property. Like the outdoor space, the renovated kitchen, or how close it is to the beach or your job. It shows you care and are genuinely interested.

9️⃣ Applying Too Late

In this market, rentals are snapped up fast. If you wait a day or two to apply, you might already be out of the running.

Fix it: Set up alerts on Domain or Realestate.com.au. Get notifications immediately and apply ASAP with your application already prepped and ready to go.

🔟 Not Including Pet Info

If you have a pet, don’t just mention them. Sell them. Landlords want reassurance your furry friend won’t destroy the property.

Fix it: Include a professional pet resume with your application. Add a cute photo, breed info, vet records, temperament notes, and a reference from a vet or past landlord. Show that your pet is cleaner and more polite than most humans.

Final Word: Little Mistakes Add Up

You might only miss one small thing, but when property managers have 40 other applicants, that’s all it takes to drop your name to the bottom.

If you want your application to stand out, be the renter who makes the agent’s job easier. Not harder.

✅ Be prepared

✅ Be professional

✅ And be personal (not robotic)

Want all of this in one go? The Renter’s Edge bundle includes everything you need to get approved faster.

🏡 The rental market might be brutal, but your application doesn’t have to be.