San Francisco rents rose nearly 26% from last September, the highest annual increase in the country, according to rental market figures. The mayor has declared a rental crisis, and only 2.6% of the city’s apartments are vacant.

The reported median rent is $3,915 for a one-bedroom apartment and $4,640 for a two-bedroom. Leasing agents say preparation, enthusiasm and flexibility can help applicants compete; offering more than the asking rent is not the only factor owners consider.

Shalini Sadda, a leasing agent with City Real Estate, says previous landlord references and respectful conduct during a tour can matter when an individual condo owner chooses a tenant. Applicants may also benefit from accommodating an owner’s preferred move-in date or lease length.