In the battle to find apropriate rental accomodation the smaller details can often be overlooked. Here are just a few tips to secure that rental property.

In a recent Channel 7 Sunrise TV interview with Real Estate Institute of NSW (REINSW) President Steve Martin regarding the rental crisis in Australia, three things were highlighted which can assist you in securing your rental property. These were: dress for success, obtain 3 good references and to fill out all of the details accurately.

Tip 1 - Dress for Success

Dress well as you are presenting yourself as the caretaker of the property. Many agents have selected individuals based upon their perception that the tenant is respectable and hardworking.

Tip 2 - Obtain 3 good references

This will bolster your appeal and demonstrate that you are well respected by friends, family, peers... as well as previous agents (should you have a rental history) and previous property owners.

Tip 3 - Fill out all of your details accurately

Don't stretch the truth to try and win the heart of the owner or agent. What is most important of all is that the information you provide is factual and can be appropriately qualified if required.

Further to Steve Martin's rental property seeking tips, here are some others worth considering when looking for a rental property.

Tip 4 - Arrive early for the property's inspection

If you are attending the property inspection, it is a good idea to arrive early. This not only shows you are keen, but also provides an opportunity to build a relationship with the agent which may be the clincher at decision time.

Tip 5 - Register with multiple agents

Register with as many agents as possible and ensure that you follow them up on a regular basis. Sooner or later, your keen attitude will be rewarded with a pre-showing or additional credit in the final decision.

Tip 6 - Length of Stay

Many rental property owners are looking for longer staying-tenants. When enquiring for a rental property, always forecast how long you are looking for with the consideration in mind that stability is a good thing (i.e. don't be a here today and gone tomorrow personality).

Finally, Dont let your frustration spill over. A survey of 200 agents around NSW in August found that about a third of respondents had been threatened or abused over the phone by potential tenants within the past month.

Always remember that at the end of the day the rental property market is tight and there are no guarantees. Just remember that its a numbers game and that perseverance will pay off in the end.