Good question. It's fair to say rental conditions have eased slightly in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, with vacancies edging higher.

According to the latest figures from Cotality, the national vacancy rate was 1.6% in June, up from 1.5% in May, but still well below the decade average of 2.5%. By comparison, during the five years before the COVID-19 pandemic, vacancy rates averaged 3.3%[i].

At the same time, rents continued to grow, rising 5.9% nationally over the financial year, adding around $40 a week to the median rent. Across Australia, annual rental growth ranged from 10.1% in Darwin and regional Tasmania to 3.2% in the ACT and regional Northern Territory.

So, while conditions have become slightly less competitive in some markets, they're far from the renter-friendly conditions we had before the pandemic. That said, some landlords may be more willing to negotiate this winter, which has traditionally been a quieter leasing season, with fewer people searching for new rental digs than during the warmer months.

However, if the plan is to make a move this winter, preparation is a must. That means having your paperwork ready, understanding what you can comfortably afford, and generating a positive impression during property inspections.

One thing that never changes, whether it's July or January, is the importance of being prepared. Aspiring tenants should have their recent payslips, photo identification, rental history and references ready before they begin applying for properties.

Having your paperwork organised allows you to act quickly when the right property becomes available. If possible, submit your application on the same day as the inspection. Well-prepared applicants who respond promptly often place themselves in a stronger position.

If you're particularly interested in a property, you may even be able to submit an application before inspecting it, although some property managers might prefer that applications are lodged after an inspection.

Finally, keep your budget front and centre and look for a rental home that is comfortably within your financial means. While conditions remain competitive, the quieter winter market can provide opportunities to negotiate with some landlords on matters such as rent, lease commencement dates, or minor inclusions such as furnishings, lawn mowing or garden maintenance.

For more tips on finding the right rental property this winter, contact your local Raine & Horne Property Manager.

[i] https://www.cotality.com/au/insights/articles/housing-market-downturn-deepens-as-demand-headwinds-build