Rental application Tips for a successful application
Searching for an apartment can be a real challenge – especially in sought-after residential areas, where many applicants are hoping for the same apartment. This makes it all the more important to present yourself at your best in your rental application and convince the landlord. In this blog article, you will receive valuable tips on how to make your apartment application successful and which steps lead to a smooth apartment viewing.
The personal cover letter: first impressions count
A personal cover letter is the key to a successful rental application. It gives the landlord a first impression of you and helps build a connection. To make your cover letter convincing, it should include the following elements:
Direct address
of the landlord: Use the landlord’s name if it is known.
Brief introduction
Provide your name, age, occupation and, if applicable, marital status.
Expression of interest
Briefly explain why you are interested in the apartment.
Desired date for a viewing
Suggest when you would be available for a viewing appointment.
Polite closing formula
Use a professional closing formula with your first and last name.
Proving creditworthiness: building trust
A SCHUFA report is almost always required when looking for an apartment. The landlord wants to ensure that the future tenant can pay the rent regularly. You should therefore include a SCHUFA credit report with your rental application.
- Good SCHUFA score: A score of 95% or higher is considered optimal.
- Parental guarantee: If you are still in vocational training or studying and cannot provide proof of a regular income, a parental guarantee can be helpful.
You can easily request your SCHUFA report online and download it directly as a PDF document.
Friendly appearance during the apartment viewing
The first impression during the apartment viewing is crucial. Arrive on time, well dressed and well groomed for the viewing. Introduce yourself with your first and last name and mention the application you previously submitted. To be on the safe side, you should also bring printed copies of your application documents.
Important tips for the viewing
Avoid making negative comments about the apartment.
Instead, emphasise the positive aspects to build rapport.
Make sure you always appear polite and interested.
Ask good questions and be prepared to answer questions.
During the apartment viewing, you have the opportunity to impress the landlord with thoughtful questions. Show interest in the property and the residential area. Good questions would include, for example:
- Are there house rules?
- What are the utility costs like?
- Which shops and public transport options are nearby?
The landlord will also have questions for you. Stay authentic and answer them in a friendly and honest manner. This strengthens the landlord’s trust in you as a potential tenant.
After the viewing: continue to show your interest.
After a successful apartment viewing, you should thank the landlord. A short email or phone call after the viewing, in which you thank the landlord again for their time and express your interest in the apartment, can reinforce the positive impression. This shows commitment and leaves a lasting impression.
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Donna Draganov
Teamlead Customer Service & Sales - ROAD
How to make your rental application a success
A successful rental application requires not only strong documents, but also a convincing appearance and clear communication. Prepare well for your apartment search by having a professional cover letter, a credit report and, if needed, a parental guarantee ready. During the apartment viewing, pay attention to your appearance and present yourself at your best.
If a move is coming up, DACHSER & KOLB is your reliable partner for a stress-free move. We offer tailored moving services that make your move from the old apartment to the new one as pleasant as possible.
