How to write a cover letter for a rental application
When you’re applying for a new pad, a rental cover letter might not seem like an everything around me will burn if I don’t do this kind of thing. But believe it or not - it is!
Okay maybe not THAT pressing, but it can set you apart in a competitive rental market where every other applicant is also vying for that sweet spot. As trends in the rental scene shift towards a more personal touch, knowing how to articulate your story through a cover letter can genuinely enhance your chances of landing that dream pad. So let’s roll up our sleeves and craft a cover letter that shines!
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What is a rental cover letter?
A cover letter for a rental property is your chance to stand out in a competitive market. Think of it as a personal introduction to the landlord that accompanies your rental application. It’s where you get to show off a bit, giving a glimpse of who you are beyond the basic paperwork.
In this letter, you’ll want to introduce yourself, sharing your background, work history, and a touch about your lifestyle. This isn’t just a formality; it’s your moment to make a connection. Highlight your rental history and the reasons why you’d be a fantastic tenant—like your responsible nature, awesome references, or passion for keeping the place tidy.
By giving a snapshot of your personality, you can stand out in a sea of applications. A well-crafted cover letter helps landlords see the real you and imagine what you’d bring to their property.
Why do I need a renter cover letter?
Presenting a killer cover letter gives you a chance to make that all-important positive impression on landlords. It’s not just about the basics; it’s your moment to shine and show why you’re the perfect tenant.
With rental markets hotter than a seat belt in summer, a well-crafted letter can be the secret sauce that makes you stand out from the crowd. Sure, a cover letter won’t magically wipe away biases, but it’s a solid tool to showcase your tenant suitability and commitment to being a responsible renter.
Here’s what a cover letter should include
Crafting the perfect cover letter can feel like a rite of passage, especially when you’re stepping into the competitive world of internships and early careers. It’s like your first party in a new city: you want to look good, say all the right things, and leave a memorable impression.
General information about you
If you’re aiming to impress a landlord, sharing a bit of your personal details can really work in your favour. Think age, renting history, and where you’re currently living — it gives them a snapshot of who you are and why you’re on the hunt for your next pad.
For starters, landlords love a reliable tenant. Highlight your rental history, like where you’ve lived before and if you’ve been the model tenant (no late rent, minimal drama). If you’ve got references from previous landlords, drop those in too — it’s like a gold star for your reliability.
Read more: Who should be a reference for my rental application?
Summarize Your Employment History
One key factor in getting your application noticed is your employment history. Think of it as your reliability trophy. By showcasing where you’ve worked and the roles you’ve held, you’re saying, “hey, I can carry out responsibilities and do it well!” Landlords love to see that you can handle a job, because it reflects your character and commitment.
Plus, they want peace of mind, right? Sharing your employment history signals a steady income, which means rent won’t be late. We all know the horror stories of not getting rent paid on time—no landlord wants to chase after you! By proving you’ve got a reliable paycheck, you’re simply making their life a bit easier.
Share Your Hobbies
When it comes to rental applications, don’t underestimate the power of hobbies. They’re not just pastimes; they’re windows into who you are. Whether you’re an aspiring chef whipping up international dishes or a fitness fanatic who lives for weekend hikes, your hobbies majorly reflect your personality and lifestyle.
Imagine your landlord picturing you hosting a cozy movie night, complete with homemade popcorn, or rolling out your yoga mat each morning while your neighbors jog by. Community involvement is all the rage these days, so mention if you volunteer or join local meetups—show them you’re not just a tenant but a person who elevates the vibe of the house and the neighbourhood.
Explain Why You Want To Live in This House
It’s a known fact that everyone loves hearing good things about themselves. And in the case of landlords hearing great things about their property it’s no different! It also shows that you’re not just copying and pasting a cover letter, but genuinely want to move into the house.
Talk about how local amenities like cafes, parks, and markets not only cater to your daily needs but also enhance your lifestyle. I’ve personally found that weekends spent exploring fun local spots can turn a house into a home.
Explain how waking up to that glorious natural light flooding through your bedroom window, or whipping up a storm in a spacious kitchen is something you’d absolutely love to experience.
Plus, being a responsible tenant means you’re committed to not just paying rent, but building relationships and being involved in your community. So, when you’re ready to step into this new chapter, make sure it’s a place where both the house and the neighbourhood vibe with your future plans.
How to format a rental cover letter
Crafting a killer rental cover letter is essential when you’re on the hunt for a sharehouse. Here’s the lowdown on what you need:
Contact Information
Start strong with your name, phone number, and email at the top. You want them to reach you easily!
Landlord’s Details
Include the landlord or agent’s name and their contact info right below yours. It shows you’re serious.
Main body of the letter
Aaaand here is where it all ties together. In this section, you want to take the advice from the author you know absolutely nothing about from earlier and apply it. Don’t forget to include everything about you from your employment history to why you love the property so much. Anyone else smell the pancakes whipping up in the new kitchen?
Make it shine
Now the fun bit, formatting! There are a bunch of online templates for you to take inspiration from, or if you fancy yourself as a Microsoft Paint Picasso then go your hardest! Just make sure that the font is easily digestible (try to avoid the Copperplate Gothic) and it’s easy to read, making sure you keep that professional vibe.
Finally, remember to keep it professional and have a sprinkle of patience as you navigate through the rental process. The hunt can be a bit of a wild ride, but your cover letter can be the magic ingredient that helps you secure that dreamy place. Now go out there and find your new home!
