Rental market boom continues
MARKET ANALYSIS
Salt PM Managing Director Shaun Carney shares his insights on key property management trends for the year ahead.
As we enter 2026 the real estate industry will continue to see high demand influencing a tight market with those conditions expected to intensify even further over the coming months.
“NEVER HAVE I SEEN A TIME WHERE DEMAND IS WAY OUTSTRIPPING SUPPLY LIKE WE ARE SEEING NOW.”
So, where does that leave the rental market?
With the recent cash rate hike introduced by the RBA earlier in February, this will undoubtedly have a flow on to rental prices.
The tight rental market with limited stock is seeing rents increase to the high levels seen during and post COVID.
Never have I seen a time where demand is way outstripping supply like we are seeing now.
For investors this creates the perfect opportunity to capitalise on this booming market. These conditions open up an ideal window for investors to rent or holiday let their property while demand for quality stock remains high.
66 Nautilus Way, Kingscliff was leased by Salt PM in three days for $1,800 per week
Having owned a property management agency in the local market for the last seven years, I have seen the lows pre- COVID and the highs of post-COVID.
In terms of meeting the demands of this highly competitive market, the key is understanding what renters and holiday letters are looking for in 2026, then using those insights to create a dynamic strategy for investors.
We are seeing highly sophisticated renters in the market now who know exactly what they want. There’s an increasing number of tenants seeking 3-to-4-month leases to suit with the transient work culture currently in the Kingscliff market.
The challenge for landlords is knowing what tenants want and how to prepare their home to meet the market and achieve the best possible return. This is where it’s important to choose an agency that’s got their finger on the pulse and can provide pro-active feedback to a landlord before launching a marketing campaign.
When it comes to choosing the right strategy, Salt PM have a broad understanding of the market and can consider all aspects of the market before choosing the best path forward.
As the 2026 market continues to experience strong growth, all things rental, investment and holiday letting will remain key areas of opportunity.
To get in touch with Shaun at Salt PM, call 0431 296 376 or email info@saltpm.com.au.
