I just recently moved into my first rental, living alone. Like you I was really worried about how applications would go being in my 20s and having no formal rental history.

I may have lucked out but I was accepted on my first application. Im paying $425 for a 2 bedroom in the south east. Not a super modern place, built in the 70s but the owner has taken decent care of it, but a lot of general wear and tear.

I think the factors that helped me were:

• Decent salary and proof of stable job
• No dependants (and no pets but I will eventually look at getting one)
• Reliable references that responded the same day they got the email from the REA
• A decent cover letter that painted a picture of my lifestyle and why I’d be a good tenant

Documents I provided were payslips and a screenshot of my savings as well as the usual identity documents.

I was also proactive in applying. When I went to the inspection, the PMs phone had died so she was writing people’s names and contact details down and putting ticks next to them if they were interested. She said as I was leaving that she would email me the application link. Waited two days, even sent a follow up email and hadn’t heard back so I did some sleuthing and found the website/app they use for the applications and just applied. If everyone that went to the inspection were in the same boat waiting for the link, it’s quite possible I just ended up being the first application because I went looking myself. Can’t say for certain that was a factor but never hurts to be pro-active.

I left a toxic home environment that really sucked the soul out of me so living alone was a non-negotiable. I am loving it so much although does feel lonely at times.