How to navigate a tenants market; our advice to landlords
The tide has well and truly turned. For much of the past decade, the rental market in New Zealand has heavily favoured landlords, with demand consistently outstripping supply. But 2025 is shaping up to be the year of the tenant. Across many parts of the country, we are seeing rising vacancy rates, longer days on market, and - perhaps most telling - rent prices softening.
For landlords, this presents a new set of challenges. With more rental properties available than tenants looking, you need to be strategic to ensure your property stands out. At Property Brokers, we’re working closely with our clients to help them adapt to this shifting landscape. If you’re struggling to rent out your investment property, here are some practical tips to improve your chances - and do it quickly.
One cannot over emphasise the importance of getting the price right. Overpricing your rental - even by just $20–$30 per week - can lead to it sitting vacant for weeks, costing you far more in lost income than a small rent reduction would.
Start by researching comparable properties in your area. Look at current listings, not just past rents - what a property rented for six months ago may no longer be relevant. Listen to your property manager's advice and be prepared to adjust quickly. In a competitive environment, tenants are shopping around and know a good deal when they see one.
2. Make Sure Your Property Meets Healthy Homes Standards
The Healthy Homes compliance deadline is just around the corner, and tenants are more informed than ever. They want warm, dry, energy-efficient homes - and who can blame them?
Properties that are not up to standard can’t be rented out legally after the deadline, but more importantly, tenants are actively avoiding them now. If your property still needs work, don’t delay. Get an assessment done and make the necessary improvements. Features like heat pumps, insulation, and extractor fans aren’t just tick-box items - they’re essential for attracting quality tenants.
In a crowded marketplace, good marketing is no longer optional. First impressions matter - often, they’re made within seconds of scrolling through a listings site.
Professional photography, compelling listing copy, and even virtual tours can make a huge difference. Highlight key selling points like recent renovations, compliance with Healthy Homes, outdoor space, or off-street parking. At Property Brokers, we use targeted digital marketing to make sure your property reaches the right audience. Don’t cut corners here - it pays off.
Here’s a simple truth: Kiwis love their pets. Yet many rentals still exclude them, eliminating a large pool of potential tenants. Allowing pets - within reason and with clear agreements in place - can give your property a serious competitive edge.
If you're nervous, talk to your property manager about including pet bonds or clauses in the tenancy agreement. It’s a small concession that can lead to faster tenancies and more loyal, longer-term tenants.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your property appealing. Cleanliness, tidy gardens, and neutral decor go a long way. If it's been a while since you last painted or replaced carpet, now might be the time. Think of it like preparing a house for sale - the better it looks, the faster it moves.
Final Thought : Be Responsive and Flexible
Finally, remember that tenants have more choice now. If you're slow to respond to enquiries, rigid on viewing times, or inflexible on terms, chances are they’ll move on to the next listing. Work with your property manager to ensure fast communication and a smooth application process.
The market may have changed, but with the right strategy, your property doesn't need to sit empty. In fact, this is a great time to attract great tenants - those who stay longer, pay reliably, and look after your investment. It just takes a little more effort and a little more agility.
