Renting and buying are both getting harder at the same time – and that tension is shaping decisions across the market.
Australia’s national vacancy rate is just 1.2%, according to SQM Research, while the national median property price has climbed to a record $912,000, according to Cotality. Prices are up 9.4% over the past year and 46.1% over five years.
That combination is creating pressure.
If you’re renting
Low vacancy means competition stays strong and rent rises remain a risk at renewal time. When rents keep edging higher, the rent-versus-buy calculation can shift quickly – especially if you’re already close to servicing a mortgage.
If you’re buying
Record prices don’t mean opportunities disappear, but they do mean preparation matters more. A clear budget, realistic expectations and pre-approval can help you move confidently when the right property appears.
It’s also worth remembering that long-term growth is built over years, not months. Timing the market perfectly is far less important than choosing a loan structure that remains manageable.
Rising rents and rising prices make clarity more important. We can help you compare renting versus buying based on your numbers, not headlines, and map out a realistic next step.
