Pommie Granite

Hi all,

I recall reading somewhere that when one puts in an application for a property, a deposit is required, thereby financially preventing you from making many simultaneous applications.

Does anyone know if this is the case in Melbourne?

If not, is it advised to put in as many applications as possible together (with different agents of course!)?

Thanks

PG

Pommie Granite

"Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?"

Wendy

I heard that about South Australia too, but it was rubbish. You look at the house and give references, they assess your application and if you are chosen THEN you have to pay if you still want it.

Don't listen to everything you read

h2oskineil

OK I know we're in WA, but it may help someone.

Yes! You do have to put one weeks rent in with you application. This has to be either cash or bank cheque. If you are not succesful, you'll get the cash back, if you are accepted then change your mind, you'll loose the money. It's to stop people putting in multiple applications, as you said.

Neil.

Pommie Granite

Was this with all agents you encountered?

h2oskineil

Yes! Also the deposit and first two weeks rent had to be a bank cheque of cash also. (Signed the lease yesterday)

We looked at a house with a pool and tro[ical gardend which the care was included in the rent. It was $750 per week and we negotiated a lower price and said we'd look after the pool etc. 'Someone' came along and offered even MORE per week to ensure they got the house!
At the real estate agent we have used, the properties are not even getting onto the internet as they are 'snapped-up' as soon as they are available.

Neil.

christinabell

Not sure about in Melbourne, but here in NSW Im pretty sure it depends on the agent. I have put in applications with quite a few different agents who didnt require payment, however, the house I am currently renting, the agent did ask for one weeks rent in advance with the application. It wasnt mandatory, but by paying it they said they would hold the property for me until all the checks were done

bobbyftm

neil would you please empty your private message box so i can contact you please regards bobbyftm

Wendy

That's outrageous, I don't know how these people get away with it.

Siren & Brian

Why is it outrageous, a good agent will spend quite some time checking references etc and if everyone just put in applications willynilly it would take for ever and make the successful applicant wait even longer.

Wendy

But say you are one of 5 applicants and are unsuccessful, do you get your weeks rent back? If yes then that's not too bad but if not then they are ripping you off.

Siren & Brian

Yes all unsuccessful apllicants get their money back

Wendy

Oh, that's Ok then.