What is Ignite and how does it work?
Ignite is an online rental application platform integrated with realestate.com.au. When you find a property on realestate.com.au and click "Apply Now," you are typically directed to Ignite. Like 2Apply, Ignite allows you to build a reusable profile and submit applications to multiple properties.
Ignite is operated by REA Group, the same company that runs realestate.com.au. It is used by a large number of NSW agencies — particularly those that list exclusively or primarily on realestate.com.au. In Sydney, you will encounter Ignite frequently alongside 2Apply.
The platform works similarly to 2Apply: you create a reusable profile, upload your documents, and submit applications directly from property listings. Agents receive your profile and documents and can contact you through the platform.
Setting up your Ignite profile
Access Ignite through realestate.com.au or directly at ignite.realestate.com.au. Sign in with your realestate.com.au account or create one.
Complete your profile in full before applying:
- Personal details — full legal name, date of birth, current address, contact details
- Employment — employer, role, start date, income, employment type
- Rental history — current and previous addresses with dates and agent contact details
- References — at least two personal references with current contact details
- Documents — upload all required documents before your first application
Documents required for an Ignite application
The document requirements for Ignite are similar to 2Apply. Upload the following before submitting your first application:
- Photo ID — current Australian driver's licence or passport
- Most recent 2 payslips (within the last 3 months)
- Employment contract or letter confirming your role and salary
- Last 3 months of bank statements
- Rental reference or rental ledger from your current or most recent agent
Ignite accepts PDF, JPG, and PNG formats. Unlike 2Apply, some agents using Ignite request that all documents be combined into a single PDF — check the listing or agent instructions before uploading.
How to submit through realestate.com.au
Open the property listing on realestate.com.au and click "Apply Now." You will be directed to Ignite. Complete the application form for that specific property, attach your documents, and review everything before submitting.
You will receive a confirmation email from Ignite when your application has been received by the agent. The agent will contact you directly if they want to proceed.
How Ignite differs from 2Apply
Both platforms serve the same function, but there are a few practical differences worth knowing:
| Feature | Ignite | 2Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Platform operator | REA Group (realestate.com.au) | 2Apply (independent) |
| Best for | Properties listed on realestate.com.au | Broader range of agencies |
| Document format | PDF, JPG, PNG; sometimes combined PDF | Individual PDFs, max 5 MB each |
| Integration | Directly integrated with REA listings | Separate platform, linked from agent sites |
Some agents use both platforms or accept applications through either. When in doubt, check the listing instructions or contact the agent to confirm their preferred method.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Uploading a combined PDF when the agent wants individual documents — or vice versa. Always check the listing instructions.
- Using JPG or PNG for documents that should be PDFs — scanned PDFs are more professional and easier for agents to read.
- Not attaching a cover letter — it must be uploaded separately and is not included automatically in your profile summary.
- Submitting before your profile is fully complete — agents can see incomplete profiles.
- Providing outdated payslips (more than 3 months old) — agents will ask for current ones, which delays your application.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ignite the same as the realestate.com.au rental application?
Yes. When you click 'Apply Now' on a realestate.com.au listing, you are directed to Ignite. It is REA Group's rental application platform, integrated directly into the realestate.com.au website.
Can I use my Ignite profile for properties on Domain or other platforms?
No. Ignite is specific to realestate.com.au. For properties on Domain or other platforms, you will need to apply through whatever platform the agent uses — typically 2Apply or direct email.
What if the agent wants a combined PDF?
Merge your documents into a single PDF using a free tool like Smallpdf or Adobe Acrobat. Order them logically: cover letter first, then ID, then payslips, then bank statements, then rental reference.
Can I edit my application after submitting?
No. Once submitted through Ignite, you cannot edit your application. If you need to correct something, contact the agent directly.
How do I know if the agent received my application?
You will receive a confirmation email from Ignite. If you do not receive one within a few minutes, check your spam folder or contact the agent directly.
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