Perth is one of the most beautiful cities in Australia, and it’s home to some of the best rental properties. Renting a place in Perth is the way to go if you’re after a spacious house with plenty of amenities.
Also renting a house in Perth is an excellent way to get a feel for the city and its neighborhoods without committing to buying a property.
Whether you’re new to the area or simply looking for a change of scenery, renting provides flexibility and convenience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps of renting a house in Perth, Western Australia (WA), to make the process as smooth as possible.
Why Rent a House in Perth?
Perth is one of the most livable cities in Australia, offering a fantastic lifestyle with its beautiful beaches, parks, and vibrant community.
Renting a house in Perth allows you to experience all these benefits without the long-term commitment of homeownership. Plus, renting can be more affordable, especially if you’re not ready to handle the financial responsibilities of owning a home.
Benefits of Renting
- Lower Upfront Costs: Renting typically requires a bond (usually four weeks’ rent) and a few weeks’ rent in advance. This is significantly less than the deposit needed for purchasing a property.
- Flexibility: Most leases in Perth last six to twelve months, offering the flexibility to move if your circumstances change.
- No Maintenance Costs: As a tenant, you’re not responsible for major repairs or maintenance, which can save you both time and money.
Guide to Renting a House in Perth
Deciding to rent a home involves several steps and considerations. Here are the key factors you should focus on:
1. Cost of Rent
The first and most crucial factor is the cost. Rental prices in Perth can vary widely based on the suburb and type of property.
The median weekly rent for houses in Perth is around $523, while apartments average $460 per week. This translates to approximately $2,092 and $1,840 per month, respectively.
The rental market in Perth is competitive due to low vacancy rates and high demand. For more information on why rent is so high in Perth, you can read this article.
2. Location
Everyone has their preference for the place they want to live. Some prefer to live near their workplace or school while others prioritise a safe and quiet neighbourhood.
Before making a decision, research the area of your target listings. You can also ask around for opinions or read online reviews to get a feel of the place. Consider the proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities.
Suburbs close to the city centre, like Subiaco and Leederville, are popular but come with higher rental costs.
Cheapest Places to Rent in Perth
For more affordable options, consider these suburbs,
Here is the table summarizing the cheapest places to rent in Perth:
| Suburb | Median Weekly Rent | Median Listing Price |
|---|---|---|
| Balga | $360 | $320,000 |
| Gosnells | $370 | $330,000 |
| Armadale | $350 | $280,000 |
| Orelia | $350 | $300,000 |
| Kelmscott | $370 | $335,000 |
| Rockingham | $380 | $330,000 |
| Mandurah | $360 | $350,000 |
| Girrawheen | $365 | $340,000 |
| Coodanup | $360 | $350,000 |
| Medina | $350 | $300,000 |
You can explore the cheapest places to rent in Perth to find the best options that suit your budget.
3. Documents for Rental Application
Preparing a comprehensive rental application ensures you are ready to submit quickly.
You’ll need paperwork when you start renting a place, and it can be helpful to organise it in advance.s:
- Identification: Passport, driver’s license, or Medicare card.
- References: Professional or personal references to support your application.
- Proof of Income: Recent payslips or a letter from your employer.
- Proof of Rent History: Previous tenancy ledgers or rental references.
- Cover Letter: A brief introduction that highlights why you would be a great tenant.
- Proof of Current Address: Utility bills or car registration.
Having these documents organized will streamline the application process and demonstrate your preparedness to the property manager or landlord.
4. Searching for Rental Properties
Working with a real estate agent will make things easier for you. Real estate agents have an extensive network across different areas, and they are updated with the latest listings, so they can help you find a rental property that’s within your budget and meets your preferences.
Online real estate listing platforms like soho.com.au will also provide you with a wide range of rental properties. You can filter your search according to your budget and preferences, including location and size.
You can also explore rental properties in Perth to find suitable options quickly.
Note: Effective property search using reputable platforms helps you find the best rental properties in Perth.
Leasing Contracts in Perth
After your rental application is approved, you’ll enter into a leasing contract or tenancy agreement. Tenancy agreements outline the terms and conditions of your rental, protecting both tenant and landlord
Understanding the different types of leases is crucial:
1. Fixed-term Tenancy Agreement
A fixed-term tenancy agreement has a defined start and end date, typically lasting six to twelve months. It provides stability and security for both tenant and landlord.
Advantages:
- Stability: Secure housing for a set period.
- Financial Security for Landlord: Reduces the risk of a vacant property.
Disadvantages:
- Less Flexibility: More challenging to move out before the lease ends.
Fixed-term tenancy agreements offer stability but with less flexibility, ideal for those planning to stay longer.
2. Periodic Tenancy Agreement
A periodic tenancy agreement does not have a fixed end date and continues indefinitely until either party gives notice to terminate.
This type of agreement offers flexibility, making it easier to move out with appropriate notice. However, it provides less stability as the landlord can terminate with appropriate notice.
Advantages:
- Flexibility: Easier to move out with appropriate notice.
- Adaptability: Ideal for tenants with uncertain or changing circumstances.
Disadvantages:
- Less Stability: Landlord can terminate with appropriate notice.
Here’s a table comparing the two types of tenancy agreements:
| Agreement Type | Duration | Notice Required (Tenant) | Notice Required (Landlord) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-term Tenancy | 6-12 months | Dependent on lease terms | Dependent on lease terms |
| Periodic Tenancy | Indefinite | 21 days | 60 days |
Periodic tenancy agreements are suitable for tenants needing flexibility due to uncertain or changing circumstances.
Rent Increases and Lease Termination
Rent Increases:
- Fixed-term Tenancy: Rent can increase only if stipulated in the lease agreement and after the first six months. Increases are allowed once every six months with a 60-day notice.
- Periodic Tenancy: Rent can be increased with a 60-day notice at any time after the initial lease period.
Lease Termination:
- Fixed-term Tenancy: Typically requires notice as per the lease agreement.
- Periodic Tenancy: Tenants must give 21 days’ notice, while landlords must provide 60 days’ notice.
Understanding the terms and conditions of your rental tenancy can help avoid conflicts and ensure a smooth rental experience
Inspecting the Property and Condition Reports
Before moving into a rental property, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection and complete a property condition report. This document outlines the state of the property at the start of the tenancy and helps avoid disputes over damages when you move out.
Inspection Tips:
- Take Photos: Document the condition of each room and any existing damage.
- Check Fixtures and Appliances: Ensure everything is in working order.
- Review the Condition Report: Compare it with your findings and note any discrepancies.
Submitting a detailed and accurate condition report protects you from being held responsible for pre-existing damages.
Completing a property condition report also helps protect both tenant and landlord by documenting the property’s state at the beginning of the tenancy
Final Steps: Moving In
Once your lease is signed, and the condition report is completed, you’re ready to move in. Here are some final steps to ensure a smooth transition:
- Set Up Utilities: Arrange for electricity, gas, water, and internet connections.
- Update Address: Notify relevant parties (e.g., employer, banks, postal service) of your new address. (When updating your address, remember to notify your employer and provide them with your new contact details.)
- Plan Your Move: Hire movers or rent a truck and organize packing and unpacking.
Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions of the lease agreement before signing anything. Once everything is finalised, congratulations! You are now a proud tenant of a rental property in Perth.
If you’re looking more broadly than Perth, check out our recent post on the requirements to rent an apartment in Brisbane.
Ongoing Responsibilities and Maintaining a Positive Relationship with Your Landlord
As a tenant, it’s important to maintain a positive relationship with your landlord or property manager. Here are some key responsibilities and tips.
- Always pay rent on time to avoid any issues with your landlord. Setting up a direct debit can help ensure payments are made promptly.
Property managers play a crucial role in maintaining the rental property and addressing any issues that arise.
- Be prepared for routine inspections by the property manager or landlord. These inspections ensure the property is being maintained properly and allow you to address any concerns.
- Routine inspections are conducted to ensure the property is in good condition and to address any maintenance issues.
- Keep the property clean and report any maintenance issues to the property manager or landlord promptly. This includes taking care of the garden, ensuring plumbing is working correctly, and maintaining outdoor areas.
- Regular maintenance of the property, such as gardening and plumbing checks, is essential to ensure everything remains in good condition.
- Keeping outdoor areas tidy and well-maintained can help you avoid any issues during inspections.
FAQ: Renting a House in Perth
Is it hard to rent a house in Perth?
Yes, it is currently challenging to rent a house in Perth due to record-low vacancy rates, which have dropped to as low as 0.5%. This indicates a high demand for rental properties that the supply cannot meet.
What do I need to rent a house in Western Australia?
To rent a house in Western Australia, you’ll need:
- Identification documents.
- References from previous landlords or employers.
- Proof of income to demonstrate financial stability.
- A history of past rent payments.
- A cover letter to introduce yourself to the landlord.
- Utility bills as proof of your regular payments.
- Providing comprehensive information and making a good first impression are also crucial.
How much is rent in Perth?
The median rent in Perth is approximately $620 per week. This can vary widely depending on the location, type of property, and its amenities.
Are rentals in demand in Perth?
Yes, rentals are in high demand in Perth. The property market in the city has shown steady growth, reflecting a strong demand for rental properties.
