Australia’s rental market remains tight, with vacancy rates near historic lows and rents still close to record highs—even though the pace of increase has eased compared with last year. In short: competition at inspections is still strong and affordability is stretched for many households.
Key takeaways at a glance
- Vacancy is scarce: competition remains intense at inspections across most capitals.
- Rents are high: growth has cooled from 2023’s surge, but overall rent levels remain elevated.
- Affordability is tight: many sitting tenants are still experiencing ongoing rent rises in their budgets.
How to improve your chances of securing a rental
1) Arrive “application-ready”
- Prepare a neat “renter resume”: photo ID, payslips or proof of income, bank statements, employment and prior tenancy references, and pet references if relevant.
- Complete your profile in the application portal and pre-upload documents so you can apply immediately after the inspection.
2) Target with intent
- Shortlist properties that fit your budget and timeline. Factor in bond, 2–4 weeks’ rent in advance, moving costs, and utility connection fees.
- Consider neighbouring suburbs offering similar amenities but slightly lower competition.
3) Nail the inspection
- Arrive on time, bring printed copies of your application pack, and introduce yourself to the agent.
- Ask practical questions (lease term, included appliances, NBN status) to show you’re serious and organised.
4) Submit a clean, complete application—fast
- Double-check IDs, dates, referees’ phone numbers, and rent affordability before submitting.
- Mention any flexibility on move-in date or lease length in a short cover note.
5) Strengthen your profile
- Offer direct debit, consider a slightly longer fixed term, and include a brief cover letter highlighting stability and prior tenancy conduct.
Smart budgeting: don’t forget moving costs & utilities
In a tight market, it’s easy to focus on weekly rent and bond—then get stung by connection costs or slow plans. Before you sign, check:
- Electricity & Gas: meter types, controlled-load tariffs, solar feed-in eligibility, and any exit fees.
- Internet: the address’s NBN technology (FTTP, HFC, FTTN, etc.), new connection fees, and typical evening speeds.
- Water & other services: confirm who pays usage vs. supply and whether the property is individually metered.
Make move-in day easier: how YourPorter helps
YourPorter removes the admin so you can move faster in a competitive market. We can help you:
- Compare utility providers for electricity, gas, and internet at your specific address—so you avoid overpaying or getting stuck with slow plans.
- Coordinate connections to align with your move-in date (no “first night in the dark” moments).
- Handle switching and paperwork so you can focus on winning the lease and settling in.
Pro tip: Add a line to your application note such as, “We’ve pre-organised utilities through YourPorter for a seamless move-in on [date].” It signals preparedness and reduces friction for agents and landlords.
Suburb strategy: be data-led
Conditions vary by city and even by suburb. Look at local indicators—vacancy rates, advertised rents, and days on market—to target areas where competition is slightly lower. A small shift in location can translate into better odds of approval and more negotiating room on lease terms.
Final word
Yes, the market has cooled from last year’s fever pitch, but low vacancy and high rent levels mean competition is still real. Arrive organised, apply fast, and keep your total move cost in view (rent plus utilities). If you want a smoother move-in, YourPorter can compare plans, line up electricity, gas, and internet, and coordinate connections around your key handover—so you can focus on getting the keys.
Talk to YourPorter today about organising your connections—free.