Finding a rental property can be challenging, so REIWA is expanding its Tenancy Training Program to help more tenants successfully navigate the rental market.
REIWA President Joe White said the Institute had partnered with two local governments to educate tenants and help them secure a rental property and maintain a tenancy.
"Our Tenancy Training program gives prospective tenants the resources and knowledge to navigate the tenancy process, boosting their confidence and increasing their chances of securing a rental," he said.
"We initially launched tenancy training with The Salvation Army to help vulnerable tenants transition from crisis accommodation to the private rental market and have gone on to work with a number of other charitable organisations.
"Our broader aim is to empower all tenants to secure their housing future and we've been seeking to bring the program to the wider community.
"We want to help people looking for their first rental, people who are experiencing challenges in the market, and new arrivals to WA who might not know the ins and outs of our rental market.
"So far the Cities of Swan and Rockingham have committed to offering our tenancy training and we encourage people to visit their websites or contact the Cities to find out more."
REIWA's Tenancy Training is a free program that covers:
- How to find a rental
- How to avoid rental scams
- Completing an application, including documentation
- Rights and responsibilities, including rents and utilities, inspections and repairs and maintenance
- What to do if things go wrong
- Ending tenancy
Participants receive a certificate of completion that they can include in their applications.
Tenancy Training is part of REIWA's Community REInvest Program.
Established in 2013, Community REInvest is a philanthropic program facilitated through which real estate agents identify opportunities, mobilise resources and support the people of WA, particularly those experiencing homelessness.
REIWA and its members believe it's important to be actively involved and help local WA communities by giving something back.
By forming close and productive partnerships with established and trusted organisations at a statewide and local level, REIWA agents focus on key areas of need and collectively help through fundraising, volunteering and delivery of services.
