Renting in Australia as an International Student: 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Renting your first home in Australia as an international student can feel overwhelming, especially when you're unfamiliar with the rental process, required documents, and the fast-moving market. The good news? Most of the common mistakes can be easily avoided with a bit of preparation and the right guidance.

Here are the top rental mistakes international students make, and how to steer clear of them.

1. Not preparing documents in advance

Many international students assume agents will make exceptions for their situation. However, the rental process still requires strong documentation and not having your papers ready is one of the biggest setbacks.

To strengthen your application, prepare these documents early:

• Passport and visa

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

• Recent bank statements or proof of financial support

• Reference letters, if available

You can refer to our rental application checklist for more details on what agents typically expect.

2. Applying too late

Leaving your search to the last minute is a costly mistake, especially during university intake periods when competition skyrockets. By then, most good listings are gone or flooded with applications.

We recommend starting your rental search at least 3–4 weeks before your desired move-in date. Weekday mornings are often the best time to apply. Our article on the best time to apply for a rental breaks this down further.

3. Only applying to one property

Falling in love with one listing and waiting to hear back before applying elsewhere can slow you down or leave you without any options at all.

Instead, apply to multiple properties that match your criteria. This not only improves your chances but also gives you more flexibility. Learn how to make your rental application stand out and boost your approval rate.

4. Skimming the lease agreement

Once approved, many students rush to sign their lease without understanding the terms.

This can lead to problems down the line, from unexpected restrictions on guests to penalties for breaking the lease early.

Take the time to read the agreement carefully. If you're unsure, use our checklist for international students to know what to look out for.

5. Trying to do everything alone

The Australian rental system can be tricky, especially if you don’t have rental history or local references. Many students feel overwhelmed or uncertain at some point in the process.

At Find My Home, we specialise in helping international students secure rentals, even if they lack local documents. From applications to move-in support, we guide you every step of the way. Message us on WhatsApp if you need help, our team is here to support you.

Final Thoughts on Renting in Australia as an International Student

Renting as an international student comes with unique challenges, but they’re manageable with the right preparation and support. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be better equipped to secure a place that truly feels like home.

Need help getting started? Visit findmyhomeaus.com or message us on WhatsApp to get started.