If you’re looking to rent a house in Melbourne, there’s a bit more to it than just scrolling through listings. With competition high, a solid understanding of the rental process can give you an edge.
This guide will cover everything you need to know, from budgeting and searching for a place to locking in the lease and moving in.
Understanding Rental Costs in Melbourne
First things first—rental costs. The average rent for a house in Melbourne is about $600 per week, but this can vary a lot depending on where you’re looking. Inner-city and popular suburbs? Expect to pay a premium. Go a bit further out, and you’ll find more affordable options.
A few things that influence rental prices:
- Location: Properties close to the city or in trendy areas will generally cost more.
- Demand and Supply: Melbourne’s growing population and tight housing supply push rent prices up.
- Seasonal Trends: Rent tends to peak from January to March when everyone’s moving around for work, uni, or just a fresh start.
If you’re budget-conscious, check out Melbourne’s cheapest suburbs for some affordable options that might fit your lifestyle.
And for a closer look at what influences rental prices across Australia, take a look at these factors affecting rental costs.
Searching for a House to Rent
Once you know your budget, it’s time to start the search. Melbourne has a variety of housing options, so it’s worth thinking about what matters most to you.
Handy tips for finding a rental property:
- Use Online Platforms: Sites like soho.com.au are great for browsing all kinds of rental properties in Melbourne.
- Talk to Real Estate Agents: Agents often have insider knowledge and may know of properties that haven’t hit the market yet.
- Consider Private Rentals: Sometimes renting directly from the property owner can be a more flexible (and less competitive) option.
Make a list of must-haves, like proximity to work, access to public transport, or features like air conditioning and built-in wardrobes. This will save you time and keep your search focused.
Inspecting Potential Rental Properties
Once you’ve found some places that catch your eye, it’s inspection time. It’s your chance to make sure everything’s up to scratch and that the rental property suits your needs.
What to check during inspections:
- Basics like the oven, heating, taps, and lighting—make sure they all work.
- Security features, including locks, window fittings, and any alarm systems.
- General condition—keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear.
Look out for any red flags during inspections, especially potential issues like pests. Here’s a handy guide on signs of pest infestations to check during an inspection.
And if you’re moving out of home for the first time, this first-time moving guide might be useful to help you prepare.
Organise inspections through real estate agents or the rental provider. If you can’t make it in person, ask a mate or family member to check it out for you. And don’t be afraid to ask questions—it’s better to get answers now than be caught off guard later.
Submitting Your Rental Application
In Melbourne, competition for rental properties can be fierce, so you’ll want to put your best foot forward with a complete and organised rental application.
A strong rental application typically includes:
- A filled-out rental form, photo ID, proof of current income, and utility bills.
- Details of previous residences and your employment history.
- References (give them a heads-up that an agent might be calling).
Requesting an application form in advance is a good idea so you’re ready to go. As soon as you find a property you like, submit everything quickly. Following up with the agent after a few days shows you’re keen and may speed things along.
If you are unsure, read our guide on how long rental applications take to be approved.
Signing the Lease Agreement
Congratulations! If your application is approved, the next step is signing the lease agreement. This document covers all the important details: the rental period, rent amount, and any rules around pets or subletting.
Before you sign:
- Read the lease thoroughly and make sure you’re happy with all the terms.
- Note any existing issues with the property and agree on them with the rental provider.
- Ask questions if anything’s unclear—it’s better to sort out concerns now than face surprises later.
The lease will also outline who’s responsible for repairs and maintenance. It’s essential to understand what’s expected from both sides before you sign on the dotted line.
Paying the Rental Bond
You’ll also need to pay a rental bond, which acts as a security deposit in case of damages or unpaid rent. For properties where the rent is $900 or less per week, the bond amount can’t exceed one month’s rent.
A few bond basics:
- It must be lodged with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA) within ten business days.
- If you’re worried about the upfront cost, the Victorian government offers a RentAssist bond loan to help cover it.
At the end of your lease, you can claim the bond back from the RTBA, provided there are no disputes.
Connecting Utilities and Services
After you’ve signed the lease, it’s time to sort out utilities and services. You’ll need to set up electricity, gas, water, and internet connections for your new property.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Check the lease for any specific terms about utilities, like bottled gas arrangements.
- Services like RentConnect can help you set up everything in one go, saving you time and hassle.
Getting utilities sorted right away makes the move-in process smoother and helps you settle in comfortably.
Completing the Condition Report
The condition report is a key document that records the state of the property at the start of your lease. It’s there to protect both you and the rental provider from any disputes down the line.
Tips for completing the condition report:
- Document any issues thoroughly, and take photos as evidence.
- Keep a copy of the report for reference when you move out.
- If you don’t agree with something in the report, you can address it through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) within 30 days.
A well-done condition report can save a lot of trouble later, so take your time with it.
Moving In and Settling Down
Now it’s time for the exciting part—moving in! Coordinate a move-in date with the rental provider and start making the place feel like home.
A few tips for settling in:
- Take a walk around the suburb and explore nearby amenities. Getting familiar with the area can help you settle in faster.
- Allow yourself some time to adjust. Moving into a new place can take a bit of getting used to, but it’ll feel like home before you know it.
Melbourne is a great place to live, with plenty of vibrant suburbs to explore. Settle in, make the place your own, and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Summary
Renting a house in Melbourne doesn’t have to be stressful. By knowing the rental market, setting a budget, submitting a complete application, and staying on top of key documents like the condition report, you can navigate the rental market confidently.
Paying attention to the details, communicating with agents and rental providers, and being organised will make the journey easier. We hope this guide has helped you feel confident about renting in Melbourne—good luck finding your perfect place in this lively city!
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FAQ Section on ‘how to rent a house in Melbourne?’
What are the new rental laws in New South Wales (NSW)?
NSW Parliament passed the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2024 on 24 October. Key updates include:
- Ending ‘no grounds’ evictions.
- Making it easier for tenants to keep pets.
- Capping rent increases to once per year.
- Improving rules around rental payments.
These changes aim to create fairer renting conditions and reduce housing insecurity.
Is it hard to find a rental in Melbourne?
Yes, Melbourne’s rental market remains tight. With a vacancy rate at just 1.3% over the past year, there’s a clear shortage of affordable rental properties. Many tenants are struggling to secure housing as rents continue to rise amid high demand.
What are the rental payment rules in Victoria?
Under new rules, landlords in Victoria can only request rent payment in advance if the weekly rent is above $900. This change does not affect leases signed before 29 March 2021. The shift is intended to ease financial strain on renters, ensuring payments align with their income cycle.
Are rents increasing in Victoria?
Yes, rents in Victoria have continued to climb. The Regional Rent Index (RRI) rose by 1.2% in the June 2024 quarter, marking a 6% increase over the past year. This consistent rise highlights ongoing pressures in the regional rental market.
Is there a shortage of rental properties in Australia?
Australia is facing a rental crisis, with escalating prices and limited affordable housing options. Many renters struggle to find homes, which has led to increased stress and financial challenges across the country.
How often can landlords increase rent in Australia?
For fixed-term agreements of two years or more, landlords can raise rent only once every 12 months. The same rule applies to periodic (continuing) agreements. This measure provides tenants with greater stability and prevents unexpected rent hikes.
