Vacancy rates typically rise during the winter months in Melbourne, and have this year – but by a barely measurable amount. They remain at an all-time low with renters still frustrated by a lack of options. Spending money on an investment property and becoming a lessor has never made more sense than right now.

The executive rental market is generally softer during winter than at other times, and is at present. Offsetting this, the demand for one and two-bedroom apartments has remained high.

Rental properties tend to stay on the market longer in winter than the rest of the year. And while vacancies aren’t a problem for lessors in the current climate, rental providers should remember that maintaining their properties in good condition will reduce vacancy periods and amplify returns. A small investment in upkeep will usually pay for itself many times over in rent. It’s correct to think of maintenance as an investment, not a cost.