Australia is a popular destination for foreigners, whether it be for study, work, or travel. One of the most important aspects of settling down in Australia is finding a suitable apartment to rent. However, the rental process can be quite different from what you’re used to in your home country. Here are some key things to keep in mind when renting an apartment in Australia as a foreigner.
Finding an Apartment
Finding suitable accommodation in Australia can be challenging, especially for foreigners who may not be familiar with the rental market. There are several ways to find accommodation in Australia, our top tip is to use a website like Rentola for example. This is even more useful when looking in a popular city such as Adelaide, Melbourne or Sydney, where the market is quite competitive. Not only can you start searching before your trip but you can compare and contrast available properties based on your personalised filters.
You can also consider working with a real estate agent, and walking around the neighbourhoods you’re interested in to look for “For Rent” signs. It’s also helpful to check local community notice boards or social media groups for rental listings or roommate opportunities. Networking with friends or colleagues can also be a valuable way to find accommodation, as they may be able to recommend properties or roommates. Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to be proactive and start your search well in advance to ensure you find a suitable place to live.
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Renting Costs
Before starting your apartment search, it’s important to understand the rental costs in Australia. The rental market in Australia can be expensive, especially in major cities. In addition to the monthly rent, there may be other costs associated with renting an apartment, such as bond, utilities, and council rates. A bond is a security deposit that you pay upfront, usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent. This bond is refundable at the end of your tenancy, provided that you have met all your obligations as a tenant.
Rental Laws
Australia has strict rental laws that are designed to protect both tenants and landlords. As a foreigner, it’s important to understand your rights and obligations as a tenant. Some of the key rental laws in Australia include the Residential Tenancies Act, which outlines the rights and obligations of tenants and landlords, and the Fair Trading Act, which sets out rules around advertising, tenancy agreements, and bonds. Be sure to read up on these laws before signing a tenancy agreement.
Tenancy Agreement
The tenancy agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms of your rental agreement. It’s important to read this document carefully before signing, as it sets out your rights and obligations as a tenant. Some of the key things to look out for in a tenancy agreement include the rent amount, payment schedule, length of the lease, and any special conditions or rules that apply. If you’re unsure about any of the terms in the agreement, don’t hesitate to ask your landlord or property manager for clarification.
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Inspections
Once you’ve found an apartment that you’re interested in, you’ll need to attend an inspection. They are typically held by the property manager or landlord, and give you an opportunity to view the apartment in person. During the inspection, you should take note of any issues or concerns you have about the property, such as damage to the walls or floors. You should also ask the property manager or landlord any questions you have about the apartment or the rental process.
Application Process
If you decide to apply for an apartment, you’ll need to go through an application process. This typically involves filling out an application form, providing proof of identification and income, and providing references from previous landlords or employers. The landlord or property manager will review your application and may conduct a background check, such as a credit check or a tenancy database check.
Moving In
With the application gone through, you’ll need to sign the tenancy agreement and find a month’s deposit. Next stop is to do a condition report, which outlines the condition of furniture etc, at the start of your tenancy. This is key, if there are any end of contract disputes.
Ongoing maintenance
When renting in Australia, tenants are responsible for some ongoing maintenance tasks to ensure the property remains in good condition. This includes keeping the apartment clean and tidy, reporting any issues or maintenance concerns to the landlord or property manager, and performing minor repairs such as replacing light bulbs or unclogging drains. Tenants are also responsible for testing smoke alarms regularly and reporting any issues with them. It’s important to check your tenancy agreement or ask your landlord or property manager if you’re unsure about your responsibilities when it comes to ongoing maintenance.
With these tips you’ll be sure to find the perfect place, meaning you can start enjoying this amazing country!
This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Rentola.