You want to rent an apartment and you know that many landlords prefer to receive rental inquiries via email rather than by phone. Or, perhaps, a particular listing that has caught your attention is lacking ample information and you would like to learn more before submitting your rental application.

This is your opportunity to make a good first impression. It is important to note that landlords will use your email inquiry as a method of pre-screening.

Follow these tips to present yourself as an ideal potential tenant and to optimize your chances of receiving a response from the landlord.

Example email
Hello Mr. Landlord, 
My name is Mary Aldao and I'm interested in your rental at 25 Riazor Street. My roommate and I are searching for a peaceful place to live near the beach and the university. We are quiet and studious, finishing our Master in psychology, and capable of paying rent through jobs and financial support from parents. Our application packet is ready for review; I would love to set up an appointment to see the property. My phone number is XXXXX

Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.
XXXXX (your name)

Go to section on Moodle and write an email offering yourself as an ideal tenant.

Do:

• State who you are and why you need a rental.
• Mention where you found their ad and how you can afford the rental.
• Offer to provide references (work/volunteer/housing office).
• Include some highlighting features from the original ad so that when you receive a response you can remember which rental you are talking about (ex. 4-bedroom 2.5-bath townhome in Seabright, address if provided).
• Ask for pictures of the rental if the ad posted has indicated that pictures are available upon request.
• Ask questions about pertinent facts that may not be included in the ad.

Don't: 

• Mention your age.
• Include a link to your Facebook page.
• Show that you haven’t fully read the ad by asking questions already answered in the ad.

Click on Show Feedback to see a sample letter