Success in Seattle’s Competitive Rental Market

By Carrie Watt, Director of Operations & Marketing, Seattle Rental Group/Pointe3 Real Estate

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inding a rental home in Seattle’s hot market can be tricky, but it is certainly not impossible. Below are 8 suggestions on how to have a leg up on finding and securing that perfect home!

1. Be diligent in your online search. Stay on top on what is coming on the market by consistently being on the lookout for new homes within your search criteria. Many sites will now allow you to set alerts for your desired area, amenities, price range, etc. so that you are notified right away when something new is posted.

2. Be ready to visit the available home right away. It is ideal to have a flexible schedule when trying to see a rental home.

You will want to be the first one to fill out an application, so schedule time on your lunch break or carve out some time after work to see the home as soon as possible. Don’t put it off until the weekend, as chances are, it will already be gone by then. If you are moving to the area and are not available to view potential homes in person or are just simply having a difficult time finding a rental, you may consider booking an area orientation or rental finding tour with a reputable, local company.

3. Check your credit. Now is the time to fix any potential mistakes on your credit report and get it into tip top shape! If there are any negative marks on your credit report, be ready with a written explanation to give to the landlord or management company.

4. Be prepared for paperwork. You will more than likely be competing with multiple people for the same home. Be ready to fill out an application on the spot, make sure to bring your ID, checkbook, and even a copy of your credit report. If you’re moving to the area for a job, also be sure to bring a copy of your offer letter in order to prove stable future income.

5. Have the money ready. Figure out your budget ahead of time in order to make sure you are only looking into rental homes you can afford (typical rent in Seattle is 30% of your gross income). Be sure to have enough available funds in your account to cover first and last month’s rent, security deposit, pet deposit and/or pet rent if applicable, and any application fees.

6. Get your references! Be on good terms with your current and previous landlord(s). Having letters of recommendation from previous landlords can be very helpful in getting your name on the top of the list. If you have pets, it is also recommended to have a copy of their current vaccination history and even a letter of reference from your vet and/or landlord on your pet’s good behavior.

7. Prepare a list of questions. Even though the market moves quickly, you’ll want to make sure you’re new home meets your needs and that you are aware of all additional fees. Make sure to ask questions about parking availability and fees, laundry, amenities, utility fees, maintenance care and expectations.

8. Be flexible. Often times, having a flexible move-in date, price range, or amenities preference can make it easier to find and get into a home quickly. Have a list of your must-haves and also any items that you would be willing to budge on. Flexibility can give you a little more wiggle room in your search to finding that new home sweet home!

About Seattle Rental Group

Are you new to the greater Seattle area, or a local who doesn't have time to search for a new home? Local rental market experts, Seattle Rental Group, offers a wide variety of services ranging from a free apartment search to a personalized rental tour to help you with your search for a new apartment, condo or home. Visit www.seattlerentalgroup.com or contact info@seattlerentalgroup.com.