Got Your CAO Offer? What to Do Next

Congratulations! If you’ve received your CAO (Central Applications Office) offer, you’re likely feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Whether you’re heading to university in Dublin, Galway, Cork, or anywhere else across Ireland, one thing is certain — you need to find student accommodation, and fast.

With thousands of students receiving their CAO offers around the same time, the student rental market becomes fiercely competitive. The best way to apply for rental in Ireland is by preparing early and presenting a strong tenant profile for landlords.

This guide will walk you through the key steps after receiving your CAO offer, from accepting your course to setting up a tenant CV and securing your student accommodation.

Step 1: Accept Your Offer

Once your CAO offer arrives, make sure to respond within the given deadline. Accepting your offer as soon as possible sets everything else in motion — registration, SUSI application, and of course, your accommodation search.

Step 2: Start Looking for Accommodation Immediately

Ireland’s student accommodation market is highly competitive, especially in big university cities. You don’t want to wait until the last minute, because:

  • Listings disappear fast
  • Prices go up closer to term start
  • You’ll have fewer choices

As soon as you accept your offer, start browsing listings. Use tools like Tenantin.ie to simplify the search process and get daily alerts tailored to your preferences.

Step 3: Create a Tenant CV

Just like a job resume, a tenant CV helps landlords quickly learn more about you as a potential tenant. It includes:

  • Personal details
  • Rental history
  • Employment status or grant confirmation
  • Tenant references in Ireland (college tutors, employers, etc.)

Having a tenant resume ready gives you an edge, showing landlords that you’re organized, serious, and ready to move in.

Build your tenant resume

Step 4: Build a Tenant Profile for Landlords

At Tenantin.ie, you can build a free tenant profile for landlords that stands out. Our platform helps you:

  • Fill in rental history, personal info, employment details
  • Generate and download your free tenant CV
  • Upload references and supporting documents

You can then easily share this profile with private landlords, improving your chances of getting selected for viewings or offers.

Step 5: Use “On a Hunt” (Premium Feature)

For students who want to increase their chances of finding a rental quickly, our “On a Hunt” feature is a game changer:

  • Daily Email Alerts: Get notified of new listings from across Facebook groups, Meta Marketplace, and more.
  • Automatic Enquiries: Our system contacts matching listings on FindQo.ie for you.
  • Assigned Account Manager: Expert help from our team to assist in your home search.
  • Boosted Resume Visibility: Landlords see your tenant profile first when they’re searching for tenants.

Step 6: Organise Tenant References in Ireland

Landlords often ask for tenant references in Ireland to confirm reliability. Even if you haven’t rented before, references from:

  • A tutor or teacher
  • A part-time employer
  • A family friend or coach

…can go a long way in strengthening your profile. Tenantin.ie helps guide you on who to ask, how to write a reference, and where to include it in your profile.

Step 7: Prepare to Move

Once your accommodation is confirmed:

  • Finalise paperwork with the landlord
  • Plan your move-in date
  • Budget for the deposit and first month’s rent

A little preparation now can save a lot of stress down the line.

Why Use Tenantin.ie?

Tenantin.ie is designed to support Irish renters, especially students navigating the housing market for the first time.

Our free tools help you:

  • Build a complete tenant profile
  • Generate your free tenant resume
  • Stand out in a competitive market

Our premium “On a Hunt” service gives you:

  • Proactive search assistance
  • Daily property alerts
  • Support from real humans

Whether you’re a first-time renter or just need help organizing your information, we’ve got your back.

Get your free Tenant resume

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start looking for accommodation?

It’s advisable to start looking for accommodation as soon as you receive your CAO offer. The demand for student housing is high, so early action can give you a better chance of finding suitable accommodation.

What types of accommodation are available for students?

You have several options including university-managed student residences, private student housing, and shared houses or apartments. Each option has its pros and cons concerning cost, location, and lifestyle, so consider what suits your needs best.

How do I find available rentals?

You can search for available rentals on property platforms like tenantin.ie, which offers a range of listings tailored to students. Be sure to use filters to narrow down properties that fit your budget and preferred location.

Visit tenantin.ie for more information on available rentals.

What documents will I need to rent a place?

Typically, you’ll need identification (such as a passport or driver’s license), proof of acceptance from your university, bank statements or proof of income, and possibly references from previous landlords if applicable.

How much should I expect to pay in rent?

Rent can vary significantly depending on the location and type of accommodation. In general, student housing in larger cities like Dublin or Cork tends to be more expensive than in smaller towns. It’s important to set a realistic budget that includes rent, utilities, and other living expenses.

Is renter’s insurance necessary?

While not mandatory, renter’s insurance is recommended as it can protect your belongings against theft or damage. Consider discussing options with an insurance provider to find coverage that suits your needs.

What should I look out for in a rental agreement?

Carefully read through the rental agreement before signing. Pay attention to details such as the length of the lease, notice period for termination, deposit requirements, and rules regarding utilities and maintenance.

How do I secure a viewing?

Contact the landlord or property manager directly via the contact details provided in the listing. Be prompt and polite in your communication and try to schedule viewings at times that work for both parties.

What should I do during a property viewing?

During the viewing, inspect the property thoroughly for any damages or maintenance issues. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the terms of the lease or any concerns you might have regarding living conditions.

What if I have issues with my rental property?

If you encounter issues after moving in, such as maintenance problems or disputes with landlords, document everything and communicate clearly with your landlord first. If necessary, seek guidance from local tenant support services or legal advice.

Securing appropriate accommodation is an essential step after receiving your CAO offer. By planning ahead and using reliable resources like tenantin.ie, you can make this process smoother and more manageable.
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