What Real Estate Agents Look for in Tenants

Renting a property in a busy city like Liverpool can be competitive—especially for students and young professionals. Whether it’s your first time applying or you're relocating, one question is bound to come up:

What do real estate agents actually look for in tenants?

At Point Properties, we aim to make the rental process transparent, fair, and smooth for everyone involved. This article breaks down what letting agents in Liverpool typically assess when reviewing applications, and how you can make yourself stand out for all the right reasons.

 

Why Understanding the Process Matters

Letting agents work on behalf of landlords to ensure the rental experience is successful—for both parties. That means agents are responsible for:

• Verifying tenant reliability
  
  

• Ensuring legal and financial readiness
  
  

• Minimising risk to the property and landlord
  
  

Understanding what agents look for helps you prepare stronger applications, avoid delays, and boost your chances of securing the home you want.

Key Qualities Letting Agents Look For in Tenants

 

1. Financial Stability

One of the first things a letting agent will assess is whether you can comfortably afford the rent.

What helps:

• Recent payslips or proof of income
  
  

• A contract of employment
  
  

• A guarantor (especially for students or self-employed applicants)
  
  

• Rent should typically not exceed 30–40% of your monthly income
  
  

2. Positive Rental History

Letting agents often ask for references from previous landlords to check for:

• Consistent rent payments
  
  

• Respectful use of the property
  
  

• No history of evictions or disputes
  
  

If you’re a first-time renter, you may be asked for character references or additional documentation to build trust.

 

3. Good Communication

From booking viewings to signing documents, being responsive and polite makes a real difference. Letting agents are more likely to recommend tenants who:

• Reply to emails or calls promptly
  
  

• Ask relevant questions
  
  

• Show reliability from the outset
  
  

4. Complete & Accurate Documentation

Speed matters in competitive rental markets like Liverpool. Having your paperwork ready signals that you’re serious.

Typical documents include:

• Proof of ID (passport or driver’s license)
  
  

• Proof of address
  
  

• Proof of income or guarantor details
  
  

• Visa or student documentation (if applicable)
   

5. Respect for the Property

Letting agents often look for signs that you'll treat the home with care. This could include:

• Being punctual and respectful at viewings
  
  

• Asking about responsibilities for maintenance
  
  

• Showing genuine interest in the property—not just grabbing the first option
  
  

6. Intentions and Stability

Tenants who are likely to stay for the full term—and follow through on agreements—are ideal for landlords.

Letting agents may ask:

• How long do you plan to rent?
  
  

• Are you studying or working locally?
  
  

• Do you plan to move in with others?
  
  

Clarity here can make your application stronger.

 

 

Extra Tips for First-Time Renters

• Get a guarantor in place early, especially if you’re a student
  
  

• Be honest about pets, smoking, or special requests—transparency helps
  
  

• Follow through on every step—if documents are requested, submit them on time
  

 

Letting Agents in Liverpool: What Makes Them Different?

Letting agents like Point Properties understand the nuances of Liverpool’s rental scene—from student-heavy areas like Kensington to professional hotspots like the Baltic Triangle.

We evaluate tenants fairly and professionally while also working hard to match them with the right property and landlord. Our job is to make the process work for everyone.

 

 

📣 Looking for your next home in Liverpool?
Browse rental properties today and get matched with well-managed homes backed by a responsive and experienced team.

 

 

 

So, what do real estate agents look for in tenants? In short: reliability, readiness, and respect.

If you’re financially stable, communicative, and prepared with documents, you’ll already be ahead of the pack. And when you work with a professional letting agency like Point Properties, you get guidance every step of the way.