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An agent is anyone who looks after a rented place on behalf of an owner or lessor. An agent might be a real estate agent, a private manager, or a live-in caretaker. It doesn't make any difference whether a tenant deals with a lessor or an agent; the law is exactly the same, and the tenant's rights and responsibilities are the same.
Real Estate Agents advertise vacant houses, flats and units for rent and receive a fee from the owners. There is no charge for inspecting properties on their list. In most cases you will never meet the owner and will always be dealing directly with the agent.
Contact the agent to find out about vacancies in particular suburbs. Be specific with what you are looking for and quote a price range. Agent will normally encourage you to view the property from the outside to make sure it's what you're looking for, and in a convenient area. To inspect the property you will have to pay a key deposit ($20) and provide some identification. Make sure you get a receipt before you go and inspect the property. Some agents will not give the keys to properties unless a prior appointment has been made so they can be present when you inspect the property.
If you want the property, you will need to submit an application form with the real estate agent, together with a holding deposit of one week's rent. It usually takes less than 24 hours to find out whether you have been approved or not. The holding deposit must be refunded in full if your application is unsuccessful. However if you change your mind and decide not to take the property the agent may keep your deposit. Make sure you are aware of how your real estate agents deals with the deposit before you fill in the application.
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