Helping Landlords Increase Returns—Without Losing Good Tenants
In today’s changing rental market, one of the most common questions we hear from landlords is:
"How do I increase my rent without scaring off good tenants?"
At
Gardian Real Estate, we believe in
strategic, fair, and transparent rent reviews—and that means knowing how to bring your investment property in line with market value
without jeopardising tenant relationships or vacancy rates.
Here's how we do it.
📈 Step 1: Know the Market, Not Just the Numbers
We don’t rely on guesswork or outdated data.
We use current comparative market analysis (CMA) reports, real-time rental demand, and on-the-ground insight to determine exactly what similar properties in your area are achieving.
Then we consider your property’s:
Condition and features
Location and school zones
Supply and demand in the suburb
Timing (Is it peak rental season?)
💡 If a property is under-rented by $50/week, that’s $2,600 in missed annual income. It adds up fast.
🤝 Step 2: Balance Return with Retention
Raising rent doesn't mean risking great tenants. We take a collaborative approach—because keeping quality tenants is just as important as maximising return.
Here’s what we look at:
Is the tenant reliable, respectful, and long-term?
How far below market are we?
Can a staged increase be considered?
Sometimes we recommend gradual increases, or pairing the rent adjustment with property improvements (like installing air-con or fencing), making the change more justifiable and valuable to tenants.
✍️ Step 3: Communication is Everything
No one likes a surprise rent increase. That’s why we:
“We’re increasing the rent to $580 based on current comparable properties and recent upgrades to the home. We value you as tenants and hope you choose to renew.”
It’s respectful, professional, and rooted in facts.
🔧 Step 4: Improve the Property (Smartly)
If a property is significantly under market, it often means it hasn’t kept up with tenant expectations.
We might suggest small improvements like:
Fresh paint
Updated lighting
New flooring
Air-conditioning
Modern window coverings
These changes boost appeal and justify a new rental figure, while also improving your asset’s long-term value.
🧠 Step 5: Avoid Vacancy Traps
The goal isn’t just a higher number—it’s sustained income.
If we believe a rent increase will push good tenants out and the home may sit vacant, we’ll advise you of the risk. Sometimes, $20 less per week is better than 4 weeks without rent.
💬 Final Word: Rent Increases Should Be Strategic, Not Emotional
Your investment is a business—one we help you manage with facts, experience, and care.
Whether you’re undercharging by $10 or $100, we’ll guide you through the best approach—tailored to your property, your tenants, and your goals.
Let’s talk about how we can grow your rental return, together.
