With expectations that home values will rise over the next two to five years, buyers are seizing opportunities before interest rates decline and the market strengthens further.

Investor Interest and Rising Rental Returns

A diverse range of investors—including first-time buyers, those leveraging superannuation, and experienced investors—are capitalising on market stability. Property investment remains a proven wealth-creation tool, and despite mixed commentary, opportunities for strong-performing investments remain.

Rental returns are at record highs, with some properties seeing weekly rent increases of up to $150. A standard two-bedroom unit that previously rented for $450–$480 per week can now achieve up to $600, particularly if updated or renovated. Investors who enhance their properties are not only boosting rental yields but also increasing long-term asset value.

Tight Rental Market with Growing Demand

Rental supply remains limited, with vacancy rates under 1% due to strong demand and landlords exiting the market. While rent increases averaged just $10–$15 per week three years ago, the past 12 months have seen jumps of more than $50 per week.

The region’s rental listings have remained steady at 150–160 properties per month, with family homes near top school zones, transport, and shopping precincts in high demand. Across our rental portfolio of 6,500 properties, recent figures highlight the intense competition: in a single month, we received over 9,600 rental enquiries, held 1,000 inspections, and processed 1,137 applications, resulting in 164 successful leases.

There has also been a notable shift in rental demographics, with more multi-generational families entering the market. Additionally, tenancy lengths have increased from an average of 2.6 years to 2.9 years, as renters seek stability amidst rising relocation costs and limited rental availability.