Working With Us FAQ | Relocation Services Australia

Working With Us FAQ

Move to Australia with your home already secured

Relocating to Australia isn’t just about moving — it’s navigating a highly competitive rental market where you cannot secure a property without someone on the ground, attending inspections in person.

Most people arrive, move into temporary accommodation, and spend weeks trying to secure a rental — often at a cost of tens of thousands of dollars.

We manage the process for you, guiding you on suburb choices, attending inspections, handling your paperwork and securing your home before you arrive so you can move straight in.

How Far in Advance Should I Contact You?

Ideally, once you have a reasonably clear idea of your relocation plans. Before getting in touch, it helps to know:

Which Australian city you're relocating to.
Your approximate arrival date.
Your expected rental budget.
Your employment or financial circumstances.
Your visa status or intended visa pathway.
Who will be relocating with you.
Any important housing requirements.

You don't necessarily need to have your visa approved, flights booked or employment finalised before contacting us. However, you should be far enough along in your planning to have a realistic understanding of your circumstances.

How Long Does It Take to Secure a Rental Property?

Every property search is different, and our approach depends on your circumstances. Some clients have very strict deadlines. They may be starting a new job, arriving with children or needing accommodation from a particular date. Other clients have much more flexibility. For example, some clients work remotely or have flexible employment arrangements, allowing them to secure their rental before booking their flights.

Your property search timeframe will also depend on:

Your rental budget and financial circumstances.
Your preferred suburbs and property requirements.
Whether you're looking for a particular type of property.
Whether you're relocating with pets.
Your flexibility regarding location and features.
Current rental market conditions.
Your required move-in date.

If you're working towards a strict deadline, tell us as early as possible. If your timeline is flexible, we can take a different approach and focus on finding a property that suits your preferences.

How Many Properties Will You Inspect on My Behalf?

Our relocation packages include up to eight property inspections. However, that doesn't necessarily mean we'll need to inspect eight properties to secure your rental! Over the past three years, we've had 100% success rate within this initial package and haven't needed to exceed this eight-inspection allowance for our clients. Of course, if you do need to go over the initial package, we will continue working with you on an hourly rate until we secure something.

How do we make the most of these inspections?

We don't simply attend every available property. Instead, we carefully shortlist suitable options based on your:

Budget and financial circumstances.
Preferred locations.
Property requirements.
Lifestyle and family needs.
Required move-in date.

Before attending an inspection, we conduct thorough due diligence to determine whether a property is genuinely worth pursuing. With almost 20 years of experience in the Australian property market, we know what to look for, including things that may not be immediately obvious to someone relocating from overseas.

Our research goes well beyond the property listing. We investigate the property's history, surrounding area, transport accessibility, potential concerns and other factors that could affect your day-to-day living experience. Not every property that looks appealing online is worth inspecting. By conducting thorough research before attending open homes, we can identify potential issues early, avoid wasting inspections on unsuitable properties and focus on those with the greatest potential to meet your needs.

Do I Need My Visa Approved Before Engaging Your Services?

Not necessarily! It depends on your relocation timeline. We regularly work with clients who are still waiting for visa approval.

For some people, receiving their visa means they still have several months to organise their relocation. Others need to move to Australia within just one or two weeks of receiving approval.

If you have plenty of time between visa approval and your intended move, we may recommend waiting before formally engaging and paying the deposit for our services. However, if you need to relocate almost immediately after your visa is approved, we may recommend securing your place with us in advance. This allows us to plan your relocation and ensure we can allocate the resources needed to assist you at short notice.

Let us know whether your arrival date is flexible or whether you'll need to move urgently following visa approval. We'll recommend the most appropriate approach for your circumstances.

How Do Payments for Your Relocation Services Work?

To engage our services, we require a 50% initial payment. This confirms your engagement and allows us to begin preparing for your relocation.

Why do we ask for an initial payment?

Our work begins well before we attend your first property inspection. Once engaged, we'll allocate a consultant to your relocation, provide access to our secure document portal, review your supporting documentation, identify any outstanding requirements and prepare your rental application profiles.

This ensures everything is organised and ready to go when it's time to begin your property search.

Locking your place in early also allows us to allocate a consultant to your move and plan resources around your requirements and expected timeline. This is particularly important for clients who are waiting on visa approval and may need to move at relatively short notice. Without a confirmed engagement, we cannot guarantee that we'll have a consultant available if you return months later requiring immediate assistance. We also highly recommend locking in your consultant early if you plan on moving during our busiest period, from October to February.

What if my circumstances change?

We understand that international relocation involves uncertainty. If we're unable to successfully deliver the service you've engaged us for, we won't simply retain your payment for an undelivered service.

There's no obligation to pay immediately after your initial Zoom consultation. We understand it’s a big decision and the best time to formally engage our services will depend on your circumstances, visa status and relocation timeline. We'll discuss the most suitable approach with you during your consultation.

What Happens if My Visa Is Delayed or Refused?

We understand that visa decisions aren't always within your control. Some of our clients engage our services while waiting for their visa approval because they want to be ready to relocate as soon as possible.

But what happens if your visa is delayed or ultimately refused?

If your plans are delayed, we'll discuss the situation with you and work out how best to adjust your relocation timeline.

If we're unable to deliver the relocation service you've engaged us for because your visa isn't approved, we'll refund your service payment.

We don't believe in keeping your money for a service we're unable to successfully deliver. Keep us updated on your visa progress so we can coordinate your relocation arrangements accordingly.

What Happens After I've Paid My Initial Service Fee?

Once you’ve paid your deposit for our services, we'll set up a WhatsApp group with you, your partner or family members (where applicable), your dedicated relocation consultant and our management team. This allows everyone to communicate quickly and easily throughout your relocation, share property listings, exchange photos and videos, provide updates and ask questions — all in one place. We then start preparing your rental applications well before the property search begins!

Here’s how it works:

1. CLIENT QUESTIONNAIRE

You'll complete a form outlining your circumstances, requirements and relevant application information.

2. DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

We'll provide a comprehensive list of the documentation required for your rental applications.

3. SECURE DOCUMENT UPLOAD

You'll receive access to an online portal where you can securely upload your documents rather than sending sensitive information through ordinary email attachments.

4. DOCUMENT REVIEW

We'll review your documentation, identify anything outstanding and recommend additional supporting information where appropriate.

5. APPLICATION PROFILES

We'll prepare and set up your rental application profiles so they're ready before the search begins.

6. PROPERTY SEARCH

Once everything is prepared and your search window approaches, we can begin identifying and inspecting suitable properties.

Gathering documents can take longer than expected, particularly when you're relocating internationally. Getting organised early means you're not scrambling to find and scan important paperwork after packing up your home!

Can You Really Help Me Secure a Rental Before I Arrive in Australia?

Absolutely! This is one of the main reasons clients choose to work with us. Rather than waiting until you arrive to begin searching for a home, we can manage the rental search process on your behalf while you're still overseas.

Our services can include:

Researching suitable suburbs.
Identifying rental properties that match your requirements.
Liaising with property managers.
Attending property inspections on your behalf.
Providing feedback on inspected properties.
Preparing and submitting rental applications.
Following up throughout the application process.

Starting your search before arriving could help you avoid weeks of expensive temporary accommodation and allow you to focus on settling in once you land.

Do I Need to Travel to Australia to Attend Rental Inspections?

No! And that's one of the main reasons our clients engage us.

Most Australian property managers require a property to be physically inspected before they'll process a rental application.

This generally means either you or an authorised third party must attend an inspection on your behalf.

For international applicants, this can present a significant challenge when trying to secure a rental before arriving in Australia.

And that's where we come in!

Our consultants can attend rental property inspections on your behalf while you're still living overseas, allowing you to apply for properties without arranging an expensive preliminary trip to Australia.

We can help assess:

Whether the property matches your requirements.
The layout, condition and presentation.
Storage and practical living arrangements.
Parking and building access.
Potential issues that aren't obvious in photographs.
Suitability for your family and lifestyle.

We'll also share photos, videos and detailed feedback through your dedicated WhatsApp group, helping you make informed decisions before proceeding with an application.

Our service allows you to continue working, packing and preparing for your move while we handle the property inspections in Australia — helping you navigate an important part of the rental application process before you've even arrived.

How Will You Know Which Suburbs and Properties Are Right for Me?

Getting to know our clients is one of our favourite parts of the process!

You don't need to know exactly which suburb you want to live in or what your perfect property looks like before contacting us.

During our initial consultation, we want to understand more than just your weekly rental budget and preferred number of bedrooms. We want to get to know YOU!

We'll ask about things like:

Your lifestyle, interests and hobbies.
What you enjoy doing on weekends.
Whether you prefer peace and quiet or being close to the action.
Your family's routines and priorities.
Your workplace and commuting requirements.
Your preferred property features and rental budget.
Access to schools, childcare, public transport and local amenities.

With over 20 years of experience helping people relocate to Australia, we've developed an extensive understanding of different suburbs and the lifestyles they offer. Often, after just one conversation, we'll already have several suburbs in mind that we think you'd absolutely love! Many clients initially have one or two well-known suburbs in mind, only to discover other neighbourhoods that are an even better match for their lifestyle and budget. Some of Australia's best neighbourhoods aren't necessarily the most famous. We'll use our local knowledge and understanding of your needs to recommend areas and properties we genuinely believe you'll love calling home.

Can You Help Me Prepare My Rental Applications?

Absolutely! In fact, this is one of the most important parts of our service.

If you're moving to Australia for the first time, you probably won't be familiar with the rental application process, what supporting documents to include or how to make your application stand out.

We prepare hundreds of rental applications every year.

With our extensive experience, we know what property managers look for and how to put together a thorough, well-presented and competitive application. And there's a lot more paperwork than you might expect!

Australia has four major rental application platforms, and not all property managers use the same one. This means you may need to complete different application forms, upload documents and maintain multiple profiles depending on which properties you're applying for.

We handle the application paperwork on your behalf, including setting up your profiles, reviewing your supporting documentation and ensuring everything is ready before we even attend your first inspection. Australia's rental market can move incredibly quickly. With international time differences, an agent requesting an additional document while you're asleep could mean missing the opportunity to secure a property. We prepare your applications in advance so that when we find a suitable property, we're ready to act immediately. No scrambling for documents, no rushing through forms and no unnecessary delays that could cost you the property.

What If I Don’t Have An Australian Rental History?

Many of our clients are moving to Australia for the first time and don't have local rental references, Australian payslips or an established rental history. Some of our clients have owned their own home or are moving out of their parents' house for the first time.

We can help you understand the documentation commonly requested by Australian property managers and prepare your applications accordingly.

If you’ve never rented before, you can provide alternate supporting documents such as:

Proof of home ownership.
Mortgage repayment history, where relevant.
Letters from family members or previous roommates.

Every rental application is assessed individually, and the information required may differ between property managers. Start gathering your supporting documents before leaving your home country. Having everything ready can make the application process significantly easier.

Can I Secure a Rental Without Having a Job in Australia?

Potentially, yes! But you'll need to demonstrate how you intend to afford the rent.

Australian property managers generally assess whether applicants can comfortably meet their rental payments. Employment income is one way to demonstrate this, but it isn't necessarily the only way.

Other financial circumstances may include:

Substantial personal savings.
Income from investments.
Rental income from properties you own.
Ongoing employment with an overseas employer.
Financial support from a parent or family member.
Other reliable sources of income or financial support.

You'll need to provide appropriate evidence of your financial position, such as bank statements, proof of income or supporting documentation. Keep in mind that securing employment in Australia can sometimes take longer than anticipated. From a landlord's perspective, they'll want reassurance that you have sufficient savings or other financial resources to comfortably cover your rent, even if your job search takes several months. Before beginning your property search, we'll discuss your financial circumstances and help you assess which rental budgets are realistic.

Can You Help Me Find a Rental if I'm Bringing Pets?

Absolutely! We regularly assist clients relocating with pets.

We understand that pets are part of the family, and finding suitable accommodation is an important part of your relocation.

We'll discuss your pets and any specific housing requirements before beginning your property search.

Things we consider:

The type, size and number of pets.
Property layout and outdoor space.
Fencing and security.
Apartment and strata requirements.
Access to parks and walking areas.
Applicable state tenancy laws.
Information required for your rental applications.

Renting with pets is regulated differently across Australia's states and territories. Some properties may also be unsuitable for certain pets, even where pets are legally permitted. Let us know about your pets during your initial enquiry. We can incorporate their needs into the property search and help you understand how they may affect your rental options.

I'm Moving to Australia on a Student Visa. Can You Help Me Find Somewhere to Live?

Yes! We can assist international students, depending on their accommodation needs and financial circumstances.

One of the most important considerations when applying for an Australian rental is demonstrating that you can comfortably afford the rent.

What if I won't be working while studying?

That's not necessarily an issue, but you'll need to show how you'll be financially supporting yourself. This may include:

Personal savings.
Financial assistance from parents or family.
Scholarships or stipends.
Income from permitted employment.
Other reliable financial resources.

Property managers may request documents such as bank statements, evidence of financial sponsorship, proof of income or scholarship documentation. Student visa holders may also face restrictions on their working hours, so any expected employment income should be realistic and consistent with their visa conditions. Tell us how you intend to support yourself during your studies and what type of accommodation you're looking for. We can then discuss your rental application prospects and whether our services are suitable for your circumstances.

What Happens If My Rental Application Is Unsuccessful?

Don't panic! An unsuccessful application doesn't necessarily mean there's anything wrong with your application.

Australia's rental market can be competitive, and even well-prepared applicants aren't guaranteed approval for every property.

Rental properties can attract multiple applicants, and landlords ultimately decide who to approve.

If an application is unsuccessful, we'll continue assessing suitable opportunities for you within the scope of your relocation package. We'll also consider whether adjustments may improve your options.

These might include:

Expanding your preferred suburbs.
Considering different property types.
Reviewing your weekly rental budget.
Adjusting non-essential requirements.
Reviewing your supporting documentation.
Considering alternative move-in dates.

We work hard to prepare strong, well-supported applications, but no relocation company can guarantee landlord approval. Flexibility is valuable. Sometimes considering a slightly wider search area can open up considerably more rental opportunities.

What Happens After My Rental Application Is Approved?

Once your application is approved, there are a few important steps to complete before moving in.

1. Pay the Holding Deposit

The first step is generally paying a holding deposit to secure the property while the lease paperwork is finalised. This is usually equivalent to one or two week's rent and is credited towards your initial rental payments once the lease is signed. It takes the property off the market and secures it as yours.

2. Pay the Bond

You'll generally need to pay a rental bond, commonly equivalent to four weeks' rent, which is held in a Government trust account and refunded to you at the end of your tenancy, minus any damages or outstanding rent. In most Australian states, this is equivalent to four weeks' rent.

3. Sign Your Lease

You'll receive a residential tenancy agreement outlining the terms of your rental, including the lease duration, weekly rent and your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. We’ll review this for you and make sure you’re aware of any additional terms.

4. Pay the Remaining Rent In Advance

You'll then pay the balance of your initial rent in advance, after accounting for your holding deposit.

The amount and payment arrangements depend on your state and tenancy agreement.

5. Organise Your Move-In

Depending on your relocation package, we can also provide guidance and coordination with:

Key collection arrangements.
Entry condition reports.
Electricity, gas and internet connections.
Furniture and appliance deliveries..

Rental bond and rent-in-advance requirements vary between states and territories. Once your rental is secured, having a confirmed Australian address makes it much easier to organise utilities, deliveries and other arrangements before you arrive. If your lease starts while you're still overseas, we'll also help coordinate practical arrangements with the property manager, including key collection and entry condition reporting.

Why Should I Use a Relocation Agent Instead of Doing It Myself?

Because relocating internationally is already a huge undertaking!

You can absolutely search for an Australian rental yourself.

But consider what that might involve when you're moving from overseas:

Paying for temporary accommodation and a rental car while searching.
Attending back to back rental inspections (often while jetlagged!)
Preparing multiple rental applications.
Communicating with property managers.
Researching unfamiliar suburbs.
Arranging utilities, furniture and other essentials.
Managing all of this while starting a new job or settling your children.

For families, the cost of temporary accommodation can be particularly significant when multiple bedrooms are required. The value of relocation support isn't just convenience. Securing a suitable rental before arrival could save you considerable time, stress and temporary accommodation expenses.

Ready to Start Planning Your Move to Australia?

Whether you're waiting on visa approval, preparing to start a new job or organising an international move with your family, we're here to make the process easier.

At Relocation Services Australia, we help individuals and families navigate the Australian rental market from overseas.

From recommending suburbs we think you'll love to attending property inspections, preparing rental applications and coordinating your relocation, we help take the stress out of moving overseas.

You don't need to have everything finalised before speaking with us. If you know where you're moving, have an approximate timeline and understand your financial circumstances, we'd love to hear from you! The earlier we understand your plans, the better we can help you prepare.

Start planning your move today.

CONTACT