How to Find Accommodation

Accommodation is arguably the most important need to organise as a student. However, student accommodation can be tricky to find. As an international student or domestic student from high school, it can be tough to know where to look for finding rental property. To help you through your journey, we’ve prepared a guide to outline the process for ECC students looking for rental accommodation.

1. Research and Budget

Start by researching the types of rentals available, cost, locations and travel options to find what accommodation best suits you.

Budgeting is also necessary to plan and guarantee you’re able to pay rent for your apartment.

ECU has a lengthy list of accommodation resources and options if you struggle to find more, as well as financial support resources you can use.

2. Browse Accommodation

There are multiple websites available to browse accommodation. Some popular sites include:

• ECU Accommodation Listings
• Campus Perth
• Student.com
• Study Perth
• realestate.com.au
• rent.com.au

3. Prepare your Renter Resume and Cover Letter

On each rental website, you are able to create an account and apply for tenancy of a property.

However, before applying to any rental properties, it is essential to create a renter resume. A renter resume is similar to a work resume but it outlines your relevant rental history instead and is used to apply for property.

Your renter resume should include:

• 100 points of ID
• Rental history
• Employment history
• Income and bank statements
• References from previous landlords and work employers.

Your renter resume should be paired with a cover letter that convinces the rental owner why you should rent the property.

Your cover letter should persuade the property owner that you’ll be able to:

• Consistently pay rent on time
• Take care of the property
• Communicate with the owner without issue

Both documents are necessary to succeed in rental applications and can be what makes you stand out to the landlord.

Once you have all required documents available, start searching and registering interest on any rentals that suit you.

4. Attend Inspections and Apply

It’s best to attend home opens and inspect the property before applying to any rentals to ensure the space is fit for your liking. Inspections give you an opportunity to meet with the property owner, so ensure you present yourself professionally and remember that you can apply for as many rentals as you’d like, however, make sure to not accept more than one offer or else you’d put yourself in a difficult situation.

If your application is declined, don’t hesitate to ask for feedback and don’t give up! Rental properties are competitive and in high-demand, it’s known to be tough!

5. Secure your Rental

Once approved for a rental, ensure that you read the agreements carefully before signing and make sure you pay any upfront costs immediately.

Ensure all property condition reports are completed and given to your property manager within a week’s time and organise all necessary utilities. If there are any property issues, make sure they’re raised to your landlord.

Securing a rental property is another challenge in life that a number of students go through and although it isn’t easy, it does increase your knowledge and independence. Remember to ask the people around you or ECC if in need of advice. Be prepared and don’t give up! Your accommodation is out there waiting for you!