Maria Milillo, Head of Property Management, Raine & Horne 

This is a timely question, particularly given the ongoing debate about the Federal Government's proposed changes to negative gearing and its decision to drag capital gains tax back to the era of indexation in last month's Budget. 

Quite rightly, there’s been no shortage of talk about the impact that the proposed changes will have on rental prices, supply, and, of course, vacancy rates. However, the proposed changes still need to pass through Parliament before their full impact on the rental market can be assessed. 

In the meantime, winter 2026 could offer some practical advantages for renters. 

Rental demand typically peaks during summer, when people relocate for new jobs, families settle before the school year begins, and students secure accommodation for university. This activity creates a more competitive environment, with higher enquiry levels and busier inspections. 

By contrast, renter activity often slows during winter - moving properties is disruptive at the best of times, and the shorter days, rain and colder temperatures make it less appealing than the warmer months. But for those who have their hearts set on finding different rental digs, with fewer people actively searching, there's less competition at inspections, improving your chances of securing a property from June to September. On the flip side, there may be fewer properties available than in the peak summer months. 

Whether it's January or June, preparation remains critical to find a suitable rental property. Have your paperwork ready, including recent pay slips, photo identification, rental history and references from previous landlords or property managers. Being organised allows you to act quickly when the right property becomes available. 

Winter can also provide tenants with more scope to negotiate. In a quieter market, some landlords may want to discuss the prospect of you taking a longer lease, or perhaps they might throw in some inclusions such as furnishings, lawn mowing or garden maintenance. 

Another advantage of inspecting properties during winter is that you'll get a better sense of how they perform in colder conditions. Look for signs of dampness, poor ventilation and mould, particularly in more established properties. 

Although policy changes and economic conditions could shape the rental market in the long term, winter 2026 may offer renters an excellent opportunity to get ahead of the curve and secure a property before spring and greater competition. 

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