Looking for a rental house in Sydney is rarely a pleasant experience. No matter where you’re looking, you will probably have to face packed viewings, overworked and overtired real estate agents and extortionate asking prices. But it doesn’t have to be that bad – try some of our hints that will help get you through the day.
Have your forms ready before you see the property
It sounds simple but having your applications form ready on the day of the viewing can help you immensely. Not only will it show the agent that you’re keen, it also saves the Monday morning rush – when the reliable photocopier at work is bound to be broken. Make a couple of copies of your passport and other forms of identification to save you time later and make sure that the people you want to move in with have everything ready as well.
Go to every viewing you can
Even if the photos online make the house look like a dump, you will never know unless you go and see the place yourself. Often the best real estate finds are those that weren’t advertised properly.
Check for bus routes
The property may look great on the morning of the viewing but make sure you keep an eye and an ear out for little things that could make a big difference when you move in. You might not initially notice nearby buses and trains, noisy local pubs and flight paths but you definitely will once you move in.
Drive (if you can)
You may be a public transporter during the week but if you can borrow a car for house viewings, it will make the day a lot easier. Not only will you be more likely to make it to viewings on time, you will also be able to see properties in different areas that you may have struggled to get to on weekend buses and trains.
Have somewhere to crash afterwards
House hunting can be an exhausting activity. If you are not from Sydney, make sure you have somewhere you can rest and relax afterwards. If you have been looking around the Eastern Suburbs in Double Bay, Paddington or Surry Hills, accommodation options are everywhere. North of the bridge, there are plenty of cute hotels and rental apartments in Milson’s Point, North Sydney and McMahon’s Point. Or if you just want somewhere to rest your feet for a while, there are plenty of chilled out pubs, bars and cafes. Try the East Village Hotel, Darlinghurst or Pocket Bar in Paddington. For a quick meal, head to the Golden Sheaf in Double Bay or Commodore Hotel in North Sydney.
Be patient
There is no doubt that looking for somewhere to live can be stressful, time-consuming and frustrating. But good things come to those who wait and the property market in Sydney is definitely a waiting game. The longer you wait, the more you know exactly what you are looking for and what you are not.
