What kind of rental am I looking for?
To find the perfect place to rent, do some research to get a good idea of what rentals are worth and the bargaining power to land a good deal. Ask yourself these questions:
- What are your options? The private rental market is the most obvious choice, however community, student or public housing could be the best option if you're on a tight budget. See our Cheap accommodation pages for more information about government assistance, hostels, student and emergency housing.
- What's your budget? Research your options for rental assistance (new window).
- Who'll live in your house? Share houses are cheap, practical and can be fun, but going solo gives you privacy and independence.
- House or apartment? Flats or apartments are smaller, but generally there's more available for rent and they're more secure than a house. House are bigger, have a backyard and usually fit more people.
- Where's the couch? Furniture costs money, so work out what you have already, what you need and what you can borrow from friends or family. Visit second hand stores and garage sales for bargains.
- Where's your neighbourhood? Transport, work, study, entertainment, friends, family and access to some services will all impact on this decision.
Where do I look?
Newspapers
The real estate or 'to let' sections of the big newspapers and local community publications are a good place to start your search.
Online
Many newspapers publish their printed classifieds online. An online search is a quick way to compare what's available within your budget range in different cities, towns or suburbs. Domain.com.au (new window) and realestate.com.au (new window) are two popular sites where you can look for a place to rent.
Noticeboards and bookshops
If you're searching for a room in a share house, noticeboards are a great local resource. Popular locations for notices include bookshops, cafés and supermarkets. Universities and TAFEs usually have dedicated or informal places where students pin up their advertisements.
TAFE & university housing services
TAFE and university students can take advantage of housing services even before they arrive on campus. Student accommodation options are diverse, and the best fit for you will depend on budget and lifestyle. See our Student accommodation page for further information.
Word of mouth
Use your personal networks to spread the word - this can be a powerful publicity tool and may unearth an ideal opportunity to rent from someone you know, or to take over a lease or room from a friend who is moving on.
Be persistent!
Don't be disheartened if the first few properties you see aren't what you're after. Breaking a lease is not easy so choose somewhere you'll be happy to live for at least the duration of your lease.
Be prepared
Be prepared to move quickly when the right place does come up - you'll need money up-front for bond and referees for your lease application. Bond is usually equal to a month's rent. Plus you'll need the first month's rent in advance. Don't forget to factor in the costs for connections of your phone, gas, electricity and water.
Links
Consumer Affairs Victoria - Homes and Renting
Comprehensive renting guides in different languages for rented premises, caravan parks and rooming houses. Fact sheets target specific issues such making a decision to rent, payments, tenancy problems and bonds.
The Office of Housing
Housing services including the Bond Loan Scheme and public rental housing to eligible residents of Victoria. If renting privately, you may be eligible for financial assistance with your bond.
Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) - Search for a Real Estate Agent
Many real estate agents have their own web sites with sections dedicated to potential tenants. The REIV site has an online tool for searching for a member agency.
Tenant's Union of Victoria
An excellent state-wide resource for researching your rights as a renter. Includes fact sheets on tenancy law and contacts for local offices across Victoria.
