Renting a property in Melbourne

Expats will likely rent property in Melbourne initially, an option that provides the kind of flexibility and choice that’s ideal at the beginning of a big move. Though, potential expat renters should note that the market in Melbourne is very competitive, and it’s necessary to prepare accordingly and to keep positive; if you put those key points into practice you will surely be able to find a suitable house that you can turn into a home in just a little bit of time.

 

In Melbourne there are lots of different types of houses available for rent, Victorian terraces, “shoebox” flats as well as spacious lofts in modern high rise buildings (these complexes are being built fast and furiously). Furthermore, there are a variety of suburbs, in total 485, each with its own unique personality; though, the tram and train system makes the city very accessible.    

 

Before you delve into the real estate web sites, you will need to decide in which area you want to live. Some are more culturally diverse than others, and some are more expensive than others. 

 

In general though, the suburbs of the Metropolitan area don’t give you a lot of bang for your buck. Houses are small, backyards are hard to come by, garages are rare, and basements are non-existent. 

 

Another consideration you’ll need to make when renting property in Melbourne, if you have kids, is the location relative to your school of choice. Many expats prefer to send their children to private schools, so you may want to research where these institutions are located before signing a lease. Alternatively, those expats planning so send their child to a public school in Melbourne should pay careful attention to which catchment zone their neighbourhood falls into. Your selected area determines which public school your child can attend, and as in any destination, certain areas are associated with the best schools. 

 

Once you have zeroed in on a few city areas, then you should check a few online housing portals to begin your search.

 

These sites are very user-friendly, and you can even set up preferences and opt to receive daily emails that include the most recent listings. 

 

When you first start to look around, pricing may be a bit of a shock; rental rates are high and getting higher in Melbourne. Also, do realise that prices are listed per week, not per month. 

 

From there, as a potential renter - if you aren’t working with a relocation specialist provided by your company - you are basically on your own to search and attend showings for the listings you find appealing. 

 

Showings are usually held on the weekends in fifteen minute intervals. If you show up even a minute or two after the showing has ended, you won’t be able to view the property. 

 

►Bottom line: be on time. 

 

Since it is such a competitive market, expect to be looking at properties with a large group of people. When you enter, you will be asked for your contact details by the attending realtor, and if you are interested, ask for an application. 

 

If you want the property, make your interest known straight away. Sell yourself. If you are able to do a long-term lease, tell them. Let them know you are here on a work assignment, as you will have steady income and are less of a risk to leave the property before the lease end date.

 

If you can offer more than the asking price, do it. Any advantage you have may help you get the property. If you are having  a hard time finding a property that you like, it may be a good idea to contact the rental agent directly to ask if they have any properties that are going on the market that haven’t yet been advertised.  

The lease process is straightforward. The rental agent will ask for the usual details: name, current address and employer information. The unique thing about renting property in Melbourne is that the same agent that showed the property will be the contact person for any further requests and maintenance issues. From time to time, agents may move on to other agencies, so you will get a letter in the mail with the new agent's contact details. It is best to put any maintenance requests in writing, via email.