Why rent through us
Let us help you find the home that’s right for you
Tips and hints for a successful rental application
Some helpful information for during your tenancy
Application Forms and other links
Why rent through us
If you are looking for your new home in the beautiful township of Bright or surrounds then Dickens Real Estate is the first place you should call.
Renting a property should be simple and stress free, that is what renters want and that is what we aim to deliver. We will always be upfront and transparent in our dealings with you and provide you with easily accessible information on renting and the ability to apply for a property online, 24 hours a day. Our available rental list is updated constantly ensuring you have access to properties as soon as they become available.
We understand the importance of finding a home that’s right for you that includes all the features needed to suit your lifestyle. Our experienced Property Management Team are equipped with direct phone and email access to ensure your application and tenancy runs as smoothly as possible.
When you have found the right property you will be required to complete a Tenancy Application Form along with supplying evidence of income and proof of identification.
After you have submitted your completed application, your references will be verified and the property owner will be consulted. Once approved, you will be required to sign a tenancy agreement, deposit the first two weeks rent and a bond equal to 4 weeks rent (refundable upon satisfactory vacation of the property at the end of your tenancy).
It’s that easy.
Let us help you find the home that’s right for you
Choosing a new home to rent is rarely easy. You need to find one that fits your budget, your lifestyle and “must have” features.
There is never enough time when you are looking at a property so to help you we have come up with this simple checklist of things to consider:
- Look for storage options
Storage can be expensive to buy – especially if, later on, you move to a home that doesn’t need it. While walking around your potential new home, look for places where you would store your bike, snowboard or book collection and ask yourself, “is there enough internal and external storage for all my important items? Also, think about whether there is enough pantry space, linen space and areas to store cumbersome cleaning items such as brooms and vacuum cleaners.
- Find out about heating & cooling
Ask us what heating and cooling systems the property has. Find out the specific rooms in which these technologies are available and make sure that they all work. Should you detect an issue, enquire if and when it will be addressed.
- Measure the space
Don’t be afraid to whip out a tape measure at the inspection as this is the best way to work out if your prized dining table or antique bed can fit through the door of your potential new home.
- Assess the security
Have a look for deadlocks, window locks and other security features. The level of security could have an impact on the cost of your insurance. Before the inspection, make sure to check with your insurance company what security features would impact your policy, so that you know exactly what to look out for while you’re there.
- Check overall cleanliness
It is reasonable to expect that a property will be presented to you in a clean and tidy condition however if there’s lots of junk in the shed and the garden needs weeding, ask us if these issues will be addressed before the move-in date. Better to ask now than have an issue when you move in.
- Check the position of power points
The location of the television antenna, power points and telephone outlets will likely impact how you can lay out your home. So, make sure that you’re happy with their positioning.
- Check there’s enough room for white goods
Check that there is space in the kitchen for your fridge and for any other appliances that you like to set out on the bench. See if your washing machine and dryer will fit in the laundry. Remember that a lot of new homes are built with laundry benchtops that require a front loader machine to fit under it.
- Don’t forget the garden
Ask whether the unit or house comes with a gardener. If it doesn’t, have a look in the garden to see what kind of maintenance it requires. If you happen to have a green thumb and want to set up a veggie garden, ask if you would be able to do that.
- Ask about gas and electricity
Do you prefer gas or electricity? This really is a personal choice. Some people prefer gas cooking, while others prefer induction hobs. Whichever your preference, make sure you find out what’s available.
We are here to help you find the home that is right for you so just ask us! Avoid making assumptions now that may lead to headaches later on.
Tips and hints for a successful rental application
There are a few simple things you can do to move your application to the top of the pile.
Firstly, make sure you have all the correct documentation. We will provide you with a list of documents that you need to bring but it can’t hurt to be over-prepared. We require a completed online application form, pet references if applicable, proof of employment and two recent payslips, photo ID and a cover letter.
Cover letter
First impressions matter and attaching a cover letter to your application or emailing though detailed information on yourself could be the added detail that puts you ahead of the competition. This document should be formal but let some of your personality shine through. List all the people who will be living at the property (including pets), detailing who you are and why you are the best candidates.
Rental history
Knowing you have a good rental history is one of the most important factors for property managers and residential rental providers (RRP). Providing a rental ledger proves you pay your rent on time, while references from previous properties will help us assess quickly whether you are a suitable renter. The stronger picture you can provide of your rental history, the more likely you are to be chosen. So, find out your history in advance and clear up any nasty surprises or rental discrepancies before applying to improve your chances.
Pay slips
Having a reliable income will impress RRPs and allay fears of rent arrears. Include some recent pay slips in your application to show you are not only employed but can comfortably afford the property you are applying for. These are especially important if you have never rented before as they demonstrate you are less likely to default on your rent in the future.
Photo identification
It may seem like an obvious part of the application but including identification upfront makes it easier for us. Going through rental applications takes time so the more information you provide early on, the more likely you are to be considered. Normally, a copy of a driver’s license or passport is enough.
Save time and apply online
We barely use snail mail for anything anymore, so why should rental applications be any different? Forget printing, scanning, photocopying, stamping and walking to the post box – you can fill in an online application using 1Form instead. The best bit? Once you’ve filled in your details, you can use that same form to apply for as many properties as you like, reducing the amount of time you spend on each individual application. We also help you out here with providing an “Apply online” button within every property listing.
Get your housemates into gear
All housemates don’t have to attend the property inspection (although this is preferable) but you do need to make sure that each adult that will be living in the property has submitted their completed application and supplied supporting documents. If we have a completed application for all members of the household, your application has a better chance of being processed quickly. It is unlikely we will waste time chasing people for important information.
Be on time
Punctuality is a common courtesy and in real estate we are very busy people. If you are ready and waiting at the front of the property when we arrive, we will remember those good manners!
Look good
You don’t have to wear a suit but it’s important to look presentable; it shows you’re keen to secure the property and that you’re taking the application process seriously. Looking like you mean business gives off an impression of responsibility which is nothing less than stardust in the eyes of cautious RRPs.
Behave
Be pleasant – not pushy. Remember you catch more flies with honey than vinegar.
Follow up
If you’ve submitted an application and you haven’t heard anything 48 hours later, send us a follow up email. Sometimes we have so many applications to process that it is nice to hear that you are still interested. We can also give you an update on how much longer it is likely to take before we have an answer, saving you time and stress.
Some helpful information for during your tenancy
Bank Account Information
Internet transfer – to set this up you will need our bank account details and a reference code for you to enter on all online rental payments so that we can identify your payments and allocate them to the correct property. You will need to set this up as a regular recurring payment. Bank details are below.
- Bank: National Australia Bank
- A/C: Dickens Real Estate Rent Trust
- BSB: 083-945
- A/C No: 705 735 568
- REF: Please use SURNAME & RENTAL PROPERTY REFERENCE
(Reference – Unit &/or street number and first three letters of Street name – Eg 1/123 IRE)
Rent is payable in advance on or before the due date. If you are experiencing difficulties in meeting your commitments, please advise your Property Manager.
Please remember your RRPs also have financial commitments and they rely on rent being paid on time.
Office Hours
Office hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5pm
Saturday 9.00am – 12pm
Sunday Closed
Often the most efficient method of contacting our property management team is via your PropertyMe portal log-in or email brightrental@dickens.com.au
After hours emergencies
For after hours emergency calls please ring the office number (03) 5755 1307 and a mobile number for you to call will be advised.
Making appointments
If you wish to discuss any aspect of your tenancy face-to-face we strongly recommend that you make an appointment. Due to the large number of rental properties under our management we are often out of the office attending appointments. We can be difficult to catch if you do not have an appointment.
Insurance
Your contents will not be covered by the owners insurance which only covers the building, fixtures and fittings. With the ever-increasing incidence of burglary and theft, we strongly recommend you take out contents insurance to cover the replacement cost of your own contents.
Repairs/Maintenance
Under the terms of your lease agreement any damage, malfunction or item requiring repair should be reported immediately to our office. It is a legal requirement that all maintenance issues are reported in writing. You can do this by logging in via the PropertyMe portal.
Please provide details such as; the property address, a detailed description of the problem and any relevant information such as make/model of the appliance. Photos can also be a great help. Let us know if you wish to be present when a tradesperson attends the property, otherwise a key will be provided to the tradesperson.
If necessary, an inspection will be carried out promptly and the matter reported to the RRP for their consideration. Quotes may be obtained from tradespeople prior to the repair works being performed.
If the issue is an urgent repair and we are unable to contact the RRP, then we have the authority to have that repair carried out immediately in most cases.
We will always act on a request for maintenance as soon as possible. However, with a minor repair or damage, it may take time to contact the RRP and obtain authorisation to carry out the repairs. Sometimes this may result in a delay.
Under section 68 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, a RRP has a duty to maintain the premises ‘in good repair’. Not all defects (such as hairline cracks in the wall) will be required to be repaired by the RRP, despite a request being made by the renter. The renter may make an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (VCAT) if there is a dispute in relation to a maintenance request. Refer to the Consumer Affairs Victoria booklet or website for more information.
Difference between urgent and non-urgent repairs
The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 distinguishes between urgent and non-urgent repairs. If a renter or resident requests urgent repairs, the RRP must respond immediately. View the full list of urgent repairs in rental properties below.
All repairs are the RRP’s responsibility but if the tenant or resident caused the damage, the RRP can ask the renter to arrange or pay for repairs.
Set procedures must be followed when dealing with urgent or non-urgent repairs. Renters must continue paying rent even when they are waiting for repairs to be done.
RRPs also have a responsibility to respond to all repair requests promptly as it is the RRP’s duty to ensure the property is maintained in good repair. It is important for the RRP and renter to communicate all information about repairs in writing and to keep copies for future reference.
Urgent repairs in rental properties
If a renter requests urgent repairs, the RRP must respond immediately.
Urgent repairs are:
- burst water service
- blocked or broken toilet system
- serious roof leak
- gas leak
- dangerous electrical fault
- flooding or serious flood damage
- serious storm or fire damage
- failure or breakdown of any essential service or appliance provided by a landlord or agent for hot water, water, cooking, heating or laundering
- failure or breakdown of the gas, electricity or water supply
- any fault or damage in the premises that makes the premises unsafe or unsecure
- an appliance, fitting or fixture that is not working properly and causes a substantial amount of water to be wasted
- a serious fault in a lift or staircase.
Smoking
Please do not smoke inside the property. Smoking can damage fittings and fixtures and you don’t want an excessive cleaning or repair bill at the end of your tenancy.
Pets
Please notify us if you are thinking of getting a pet as a request must be submitted to the owner for their approval.
Routine inspections
Please make sure the property is well presented and ready for each inspection. As property managers we are required to carry out regular inspections on behalf of the owner. We will send you an email which will include information relevant to your inspection booking as well as an SMS notification. During the inspection we may take photos to demonstrate to the owner any issues identified. If you do not want photos taken, please contact the office prior to an inspection taking place.
A routine inspection presents the opportunity for you to raise any issues or concerns. If you are not able to be home during inspections then we will use our master key for access.
The purpose of a routine inspection is to ensure the property is clean, well maintained and in good repair. We will report any maintenance needs identified to the RRP, noting the condition of the property and any areas of concern.
Ending the tenancy
The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 is explicit about how a tenancy ends. It can only occur when one of the parties to the Tenancy Agreement gives notice to the other party.
If you want to vacate the property at the end of the Agreement you must give written notice at least twenty-eight (28) days beforehand.
If you want to vacate during the term of the Agreement, you will be breaking the contract you have entered into. As a result you will be responsible for reimbursing the RRP for any loss suffered including rent loss until a new renter moves into the property plus the RRP’s normal costs in re-letting. These are usually calculated on a pro-rata basis (i.e. time left on lease).
Handing in the keys when vacating
The handing in of keys signifies the legal termination of your tenancy. Please remember you are liable for additional rent in accordance with the Residential Tenancies Act if:
- you do not return the keys on the day of vacation
- you inadvertently keep the keys
- you lock the keys inside the vacated premises
Final inspection and bond refund
Once keys have been returned a final inspection will be conducted. Your bond is actioned within 10 business days of keys being returned but can be processed faster if there are no issues requiring resolution.
We strongly suggest you clean the property thoroughly and repair any damage caused throughout your tenancy before handing back the keys to avoid issues that may prolong this process.
Communication
Most of the problems experienced by renters, residential rental providers and property managers can be overcome by prompt and honest communication.
- it is the renter’s major responsibility to keep the property clean and to meet their financial obligations;
- it is the RRP’s major responsibility to see the property is maintained and ensure the tenant has peaceful enjoyment
- it is the Property Manager’s duty to oversee the process.
This can only be done with effective communication from all parties.
Your property manager is here to assist you during your tenancy. Please direct any problems you may have to your Property Manager.
Application Forms and other links
Tenancy Application Information
Welcome to your new home booklet