Back to Work Mode: Resetting for Landlords and Tenants After the Summer School Holidays
Tiri Raumati-Greenhalgh • January 15, 2025
With the summer school holidays coming to an end, it’s time for many families to return to a normal routine. This period also marks a busy time in the rental market, with plenty of tenant movement and landlords preparing their properties for the New Year rush. Whether you’re a landlord ensuring your investment property is ready for new tenants or a tenant settling back into a routine, now is the perfect time to take stock and get organised for the months ahead.
Landlords: Gearing Up for the New Year
Summer is peak season in the property management world, with increased demand for rentals and higher turnover. Here’s how landlords can stay on top of things:
- Prepare for Tenant Turnover: Summer often brings tenant changes as families settle before the school term. Make sure your property is in top shape to attract quality tenants quickly. This includes thorough cleaning, minor repairs, and ensuring all appliances are in working order.
- Inspect and Maintain: With the hotter weather, now is a good time to inspect air conditioning systems, check for water leaks, and ensure that outdoor areas such as decks and patios are in good condition. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the line and keep your property appealing.
- Stay Competitive: Review rental prices in your area to ensure you’re offering a fair and attractive rate. Properties priced correctly are more likely to rent quickly, reducing vacancy periods. Consider any recent upgrades or amenities that might justify a higher rent.
Tenants: Getting Back to Routine and a Fresh Start
For tenants, the end of the school holidays means a return to routine, but it’s also a great time to refresh your home and check off a few tasks:
- Tidy Up Outdoor Spaces: If your rental has an outdoor area, now’s the time to give it some attention—whether it’s a quick mow of the lawn, a clean-up of outdoor furniture, or general garden maintenance. A well-maintained outdoor space can enhance your living experience and make your home more enjoyable.
- Check Your Tenancy Agreement: If you’re thinking about moving or renewing your lease, it’s a good idea to review your tenancy agreement and discuss any changes with your property manager. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help avoid misunderstandings.
- Plan Ahead: With increased competition for rentals in summer, tenants looking to move should start early, stay organised, and have their references ready to go. Being prepared can give you an edge in securing your desired property.
How Charlton Property Management Can Help
At Charlton Property Management, we understand the unique demands of the summer rental market. Whether you’re a landlord needing support with inspections, repairs, or listing your property, or a tenant seeking a new place to call home, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free.
As the New Year approaches, staying proactive is key to avoiding last-minute issues. Our team is dedicated to providing personalised service to meet your specific needs. If you need assistance or advice, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re always happy to help.
Stay safe and stay connected!
Great news for renters and landlords alike! The government has recently passed new laws aimed at encouraging the development of more rental homes. These changes are designed to make renting better for tenants while supporting landlords to provide high-quality rental properties. Here’s what you need to know: What’s Changing? The new rules are focused on two key areas: Encouraging New Rentals The government is introducing policies to make it easier for landlords and investors to build more rental homes. This could mean: Reduced red tape for building new rental properties. Incentives for landlords to create long-term rental options. 2. Fairer Rules for Everyone The laws also aim to create a balanced environment for both tenants and landlords. This includes: Updates to tenancy agreements to provide clearer expectations. Stronger protections for tenants while ensuring landlords can manage their properties effectively. How Will This Impact Tenants? If you’re a tenant, these changes are good news! More rental properties in the market mean: More choices when looking for a home. Potentially lower rent as the competition among properties increases. Clearer and more secure tenancy agreements.
The Auckland rental market traditionally experiences a surge in activity during January and early February, making it the busiest time of the year for tenancy movements. With tenants gearing up for the year ahead, this period brings unique opportunities and challenges for both renters and property owners. Here’s what to expect and how to navigate the rental landscape during this bustling season. Why is Summer So Busy? Several factors contribute to the heightened activity in the rental market during this time: School Zones and Education Planning Families often prioritise school zones when deciding where to live. January is the ideal time for parents to secure rental properties close to desirable schools before the academic year begins. Auckland’s high-demand zones, such as those near Auckland Grammar or Epsom Girls' Grammar School, see increased competition as families seek to position their children for educational success. Job Changes and Relocations The new year often brings new job opportunities. Many tenants relocate closer to their workplaces to reduce commute times and improve work-life balance. Auckland’s bustling job hubs, such as the CBD, Albany, and Manukau, see increased demand for rental properties during this period. Summer Weather and Lifestyle Choices The warm summer months inspire tenants to reassess their living situations. Whether it’s upgrading to a home with outdoor spaces or moving closer to Auckland’s beaches, the season encourages change. The improved weather also makes moving house a more appealing prospect. Market Turnover and Property Availability With so many tenants moving, landlords often list properties during this time, increasing availability. This higher turnover benefits tenants, offering a wider range of properties to choose from, but also increases competition for the most desirable homes.
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