Aussie property manager reveals why they must judge tenants at viewings
'Perception is key' according to the property manager.
As tensions between real estate agents and renters remain high, an Aussie property manager has hit back with reasons why she has to judge appearances at rental inspections after potential renters allegedly attended one of her viewings "drinking alcohol" and wearing pyjamas.
Alicia McColloch, a Perth-based agent trying to offer tips to "help tenants secure homes" shared online a "friendly reminder" that "appearances do matter when attending viewings".
She claims a pair attending one of her viewings showed up with one of them drinking alcohol from a can and the other wearing their pyjamas — a move Alicia claims does not "set a very good impression".
"I know it's really hard at the moment so you want to do everything you absolutely can and [this] doesn't present well," she said. "Perception is key."
After being questioned as to why she has "the right to judge" anyone by some people responding to the video, Alicia explained the owner had "engaged" her and her agency "to represent their property and their best interests".
"That includes making judgements and presenting the best applications to the owner for their consideration," she continued.
Australia’s relentless housing crisis laid bare in 'unbelievable' footage
Agent's shocking seven-word response after student struggles to pay $300 rent rise
Mixed reactions from Australian renters
Many admitted they had to agree with her. "I was ready to not be on your side but alcohol and PJs in a competitive market is a bit..." one said, while others agreed.
However, some were infuriated by the concept. "I cannot wait to the day when there are more houses than people looking for them, and all of these real estate agents be begging," one responded.
Others commented on how the process can easily become unfair due to natural biases when it comes to personal perceptions, particularly for those more vulnerable. "Perception is subjective and introduces bias. Run an equitable process and select the applicant that meets the key selection criteria," a person suggested.
Real estate agent shares tips on how to stand out
As the relentless housing crisis is hitting renters hard, Alicia recently shared with Yahoo her top tips on how renters can stand out from the crowd when applying for properties.
Some of the suggestions include:
Personalise your application
Don't leave any gaps in the timeline
Follow-up after sending an application
For more tips, click here.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
