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Things You Need to Know Before Renting Out Your Home in 2024

July 15, 2024
Buying Property in Australia

Key takeaways:

  • Secure specific landlord insurance alongside home insurance for comprehensive coverage
  • Budget for property management fees, maintenance, and potential tax implications
  • Hire a property manager for expert handling of rent collection, maintenance, and tenant disputes
  • Ensure your property is attractive and safe for potential tenants by making necessary repairs and improvements

Renting out your home can be a great way to generate extra income. Whether you’re planning to rent it out while living overseas or turning your former residence into an investment property, there are several important factors to consider.


#1 Priority: Insurance Should be a Top Concern

Before renting out your property, securing the right insurance policies is crucial. As a landlord, you will need specific landlord insurance in addition to your standard home insurance. This policy should cover tenant damage and rental default, which general home and contents insurance won’t.

Landlord Insurance

Landlord insurance is specifically designed to cover risks associated with rental properties. This type of insurance typically covers:

  • Property Damage: Protection against damage caused by tenants.
  • Loss of Rent: Compensation if the property becomes uninhabitable due to damage.
  • Legal Liability: Coverage for legal costs if a tenant or visitor is injured on the property.

Additional Insurance Considerations

Beyond landlord insurance, consider adding contents insurance if the property is furnished. This covers the landlord’s furniture and appliances.

Additionally, check whether your policy includes coverage for public liability, which protects you against claims from third parties injured on your property.

For more details on insurance requirements, check out our guide on home and contents insurance.


#2 Costs to Consider

things to know before renting out your house

Understanding the costs involved in renting out your property is essential. Don’t assume that rental income will leave you with a lot of spare money. Here are the main expenses to consider:

Property Management Fees

If you hire a property manager, you’ll need to budget for their fees. Property managers typically charge a percentage of the monthly rent, which can range from 5% to 10%. This fee covers services like tenant screening, rent collection, and maintenance coordination.

Maintenance and Repairs

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your property in good condition. This includes:

  • Routine Maintenance: Regular upkeep like gardening, cleaning, and minor repairs.
  • Emergency Repairs: Unexpected issues like plumbing or electrical problems.
  • Safety Checks: Ensuring smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and other safety equipment are functioning.

For a comprehensive list of safety checks, see our article on gas and electricity checks for landlords.

Advertising Costs

To attract tenants, you’ll need to advertise your property. This can include listing fees on rental websites, professional photography, and marketing materials. High-quality photos and compelling descriptions can significantly increase your chances of finding the right tenant.

Tax Implications

Renting out your property has tax implications. You’ll need to declare your rental income and may be eligible for various deductions, such as:

  • Property Depreciation: Deductions for the wear and tear of the property.
  • Maintenance Costs: Expenses for repairs and upkeep.
  • Property Management Fees: Deductible as a business expense.

However, be aware of capital gains tax (CGT) if you decide to sell the property. For more information on CGT, read our article on capital gains tax.


#3 Property Management: Why It’s Worth It

Many property owners are tempted to manage their own rental properties. However, hiring property managers can save you a lot of hassle. Here are the benefits of hiring a property manager:

Expertise and Experience

Professional property managers have the experience to handle all aspects of property management, including:

  • Setting Rent Prices: They can accurately price your property based on market conditions.
  • Tenant Screening: They perform thorough tenant screening, including background and credit checks.
  • Handling Disputes: They can mediate conflicts and ensure all parties adhere to the rental agreement.

Time and Stress Management

Managing a rental property can be time-consuming and stressful. A property manager takes care of:

  • Maintenance Requests: Coordinating repairs and upkeep.
  • Rent Collection: Ensuring timely payments and handling late fees.
  • Legal Compliance: Keeping up with local laws and regulations to ensure your property complies with the Residential Tenancy Act.

Emotional Detachment

Hiring a property manager can help remove some of the emotion from the process. This is particularly useful if you have an emotional attachment to the property. A property manager can make objective decisions that are in the best financial interest of the property.

For more insights on the benefits of professional management, read our article on why rentvesting is bad.


#4 Is Your Home ‘Rentable’?

Just because you’ve decided to rent out your home doesn’t mean tenants will line up to rent it. Ensure your property is appealing to potential tenants by considering the following:

Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Ensure your property looks appealing from the outside. This includes:

  • Landscaping: Maintain gardens and lawns.
  • Repairs: Fix any visible damage, such as chipped paint or broken fences.
  • Cleanliness: Keep the exterior clean and tidy.

For more tips, explore our guide on improving curb appeal.

Interior Upgrades

Invest in small upgrades that can make a big difference. This includes:

  • Fresh Paint: A new coat of paint can make rooms look clean and modern.
  • Updated Fixtures: Replace old light fixtures, faucets, and hardware.
  • Clean and Functional Spaces: Ensure that the kitchen, bathroom, and living areas are clean and in good working order.

Safety and Compliance

Ensure your property meets all safety standards. This includes:

  • Smoke Detectors: Install and regularly test smoke alarms.
  • Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure detectors are installed and functional.
  • Adequate Ventilation: Make sure all rooms have proper ventilation to prevent mould and dampness.

Staging and Furnishing

If you plan to rent the property furnished, ensure the furniture is in good condition and appealing to a wide range of tenants. Consider staging the property to highlight its best features.

For more tips on making your property appealing, read our article on increasing the rental value of your property.


#5 Financial Planning

Before renting, calculate the potential income or deficit from your property. This will help you understand how it affects your budget and lifestyle.

Calculating Rental Yield

To maximize returns, know how to work out rental yield. Here’s a simple formula:

Example Calculation

  • Annual Rental Income: $24,000 (assuming $2,000 per month)
  • Property Value: $500,000

Budgeting for Costs

Make sure to budget for all expenses, including:

  • Mortgage Payments: If you have a mortgage, include the monthly payments.
  • Property Management Fees: Typically 5-10% of the monthly rent.
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Set aside a portion of the rent for ongoing maintenance.
  • Insurance: Include the cost of landlord and contents insurance.

Emergency Fund

It’s wise to set up an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses, such as major repairs or periods of vacancy.

For more details on financial planning, explore our guide on how to rent out a property.


#6 Understanding Legal Obligations

It’s important to conduct your rental business legally. This includes everything from the rental agreement to inspections and rent collection.

Compliance with the Residential Tenancy Act

Familiarize yourself with the Residential Tenancy Act in your area. This law governs the relationship between landlords and tenants, covering:

  • Rent Increases: Rules for how and when rent can be increased.
  • Bond and Deposits: Regulations on how bonds should be handled.
  • Notices and Terminations: Proper procedures for ending a tenancy.

Creating a Rental Agreement

A comprehensive rental agreement is essential for protecting your interests as a landlord. It should include:

  • Lease Terms: Duration, monthly rent, and payment schedule.
  • Responsibilities: Outline landlord responsibilities and tenant obligations.
  • Maintenance: Who handles repairs and upkeep.
  • Special Terms: Any specific rules or restrictions, such as pet policies.

For more detailed guidance, read our article on rental agreements.

Conducting Property Inspections

Regular property inspections help maintain the condition of your rental property. Schedule inspections:

  • Move-In and Move-Out: Document the property’s condition before and after tenancy.
  • Routine Inspections: Conduct quarterly or bi-annual inspections to ensure ongoing maintenance.

Handling Rent Collection

Ensure rent is collected on time by setting up a reliable payment system. Options include:

  • Direct Debit: Automated payments from the tenant’s bank account.
  • Online Payments: Using payment platforms for convenience.

Dealing with Disputes

If a dispute arises, handle it promptly and fairly. Options for resolution include:

  • Mediation: Working with a neutral third party to resolve the issue.
  • Tribunal Hearings: Legal proceedings if mediation fails.

For more information on legal obligations, explore our guide on how to rent out a property.


#7 Tax Implications

As an investor, you’ll access tax benefits that owner-occupiers don’t. However, you should also consider the impact of capital gains tax (CGT) if you sell the property.

Property Depreciation

You can claim deductions for the wear and tear of the property and its contents. Depreciation schedules are typically prepared by a quantity surveyor and can significantly reduce your taxable income.

Deductible Expenses

Expenses you can deduct include:

  • Interest on Mortgage: Interest paid on loans used to acquire the property.
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Costs associated with keeping the property in good condition.
  • Property Management Fees: Fees paid to property managers.
  • Insurance Premiums: Costs for landlord and contents insurance.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

CGT applies when you sell an investment property. The amount of CGT depends on:

  • Holding Period: Properties held for more than a year benefit from a 50% discount on CGT.
  • Improvements: Costs of improvements can be added to the property’s cost base.

CGT Exemptions

There are exemptions and concessions available. For instance, if the property was your primary residence for a period, you might be eligible for a partial exemption.

For more details on CGT, read our article on capital gains tax.


#8 Finding and Screening Tenants

Understanding Your Target Tenants

Identifying your target tenants is key to a successful rental experience. Whether you’re aiming for families, young professionals, or students, understanding their needs will help you market your property effectively.

Tenant Screening Process

The tenant screening process is crucial for ensuring you find the right tenant for your property. This includes:

  • Background Checks: Check the rental history and criminal records.
  • Credit Checks: Assess their financial responsibility.
  • Reference Checks: Contact previous landlords and employers.
  • Interview: Meet with prospective tenants to gauge suitability.

For more tips on screening tenants, check out our article on finding tenants.

Preparing a Rental Agreement

Creating a Strong Rental Agreement

A comprehensive rental agreement is essential for protecting your interests as a landlord. It should include:

  • Lease Terms: Duration, monthly rent, and payment schedule.
  • Responsibilities: Outline landlord responsibilities and tenant obligations.
  • Maintenance: Who handles repairs and upkeep.
  • Special Terms: Any specific rules or restrictions, such as pet policies.

For detailed guidance on drafting a rental agreement, read our article on how to rent out a property.

Enhancing Property Appeal

Boosting Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Ensure your property looks appealing from the outside. This can include:

  • Landscaping: Maintain gardens and lawns.
  • Repairs: Fix any visible damage.
  • Cleanliness: Keep the exterior clean and tidy.

For more tips, explore our guide on improving curb appeal.


Legal Responsibilities of Landlords

Understanding Landlord Responsibilities

As a landlord, you have several responsibilities to ensure the property is safe and habitable for tenants. This includes:

  • Conducting regular property inspections.
  • Ensuring smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functioning.
  • Addressing any maintenance issues promptly.

Property Inspections

Regular property inspections are essential to maintain the condition of your rental property. These inspections help identify and address issues early, ensuring that the property remains in good condition and meets minimum standards.

For more information on legal obligations and property inspections, read our guide on gas and electricity checks for landlords.

Managing Tenant Relations

Building a Good Relationship with Tenants

Maintaining a positive relationship with your tenants is key to a successful rental experience. Good communication and responsiveness to their needs can help ensure a smooth tenancy.

Handling Disputes

Disputes may arise during the tenancy. It’s important to address these issues promptly and fairly. Hiring a property manager can help mediate disputes and ensure that both parties are satisfied with the resolution.

Lease Renewal and Termination

When the lease period is coming to an end, decide whether you want to renew the lease or find new tenants. If terminating the lease, ensure you follow the legal procedures to avoid disputes.

For more insights on managing tenant relations, explore our article on how to rent out a property.


Final Preparations Before Renting Out

Preparing the Property

Before your tenants move in, ensure the property is in good condition. This includes:

  • Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the property.
  • Repairs: Fix any damages or issues.
  • Safety Checks: Conduct necessary safety checks, including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Marketing Your Rental Property

To attract the right tenants, effectively market your property. This can include:

  • Taking high-quality photos.
  • Writing a compelling property description.
  • Listing the property on popular rental websites.

For more tips on preparing your property for rent, read our comprehensive guide on how to rent out a property.

Setting the Rent Price

Determining the right rent price is crucial. Research the local market to understand what similar properties are renting for. Setting a competitive price will help attract prospective tenants quickly.

Signing the Lease Agreement

Once you’ve found the right tenant, signing a comprehensive lease agreement is the next step. Ensure that all terms are clearly outlined and agreed upon by both parties.

Conclusion

Renting out your property can be a rewarding experience if done correctly. By understanding the costs, legal obligations, and best practices for managing tenants, you can ensure a smooth and profitable rental process.

FAQ: Things You Need to Know Before Renting Out Your Home in 2024

What should I do to prepare my house for renting in Australia?

Before renting out your home, ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and all maintenance issues are resolved. This includes servicing major systems, checking appliances, and ensuring safety devices like smoke alarms are in working order.

What are the legal requirements for renting out a property in Australia?

You must comply with local tenancy laws, which include providing a safe and habitable property, adhering to privacy laws, and following proper procedures for tenant screening and bond collection. A written tenancy agreement is also required.

How can I choose the right tenant?

Screen potential tenants by checking their rental history, credit score, employment status, and references. It’s crucial to conduct interviews to ensure they’re a good fit for your property.

Need more help?

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