What Are Renters Looking for in a Property?

Understanding what renters value in a home can help investors make smarter choices and get the most from their property. While affordability, location, and lease terms are important, tenants are also looking for a place that feels safe, comfortable, and welcoming - a place they can truly call home.

Knowing which features are popular in your area can make a big difference in attracting the right tenant for your investment property. Ultimately, you want someone living there who will look after the home as if it were their own. That way, everyone wins.

It’s also important to highlight your property’s best features when advertising so it stands out from the competition. After all, with renters scrolling through countless listings online, the homes that stand out are the ones with features that grab attention.

To help attract prospective tenants, we’ve put together a list of 13 features that can ensure your property stands out in a competitive market.

13 features that tenants are looking for in a rental

1. Pet-friendly properties

With more Australian households owning a pet than not, it makes sense for landlords to be accepting of a tenant’s furry family members. 

Data released by realestate.com.au found the most frequently searched keyword for rental properties is ‘pet friendly’.

There are many advantages such as making a property more attractive, broadening the pool of potential renters and increasing returns.

Cathie Crampton, LJ Hooker’s Head of Property Management Australia and New Zealand, said only small changes are needed to make a rental property pet-friendly, such as hard-wearing floors or a fenced yard. 

“Pet owners can make excellent tenants as they are likely to stay in a property longer and usually take responsibilities such as garden maintenance very seriously,” she said.

“If you are concerned about potential damage to your property, there are several easy changes you can make to give you peace of mind. This includes making it a condition that the tenant has the carpets steamed clean every year. Some tenants even prepare a pet resume detailing the breed and any behaviour training which can be reassuring.”

2. Fully furnished homes

A large portion of renters search for fully furnished homes.

Fully decked-out properties including everything from beds to kitchen utensils can attract a wider range of occupants such as corporate clients, ex-pats, students and young professionals. 

Furnished rentals are popular in suburbs close to universities, city centres and coastal areas where tenants are more likely to stay only short-term. 

While such properties are more expensive to lease, tenants make a saving as they don’t need to move anything in with them – except their own belongings. Everyday items such as a lounge, dining table, chairs, desk and appliances are typically included along with soft furnishings. 

Ms Crampton believes as demand for flexible living arrangements continues to grow, furnished rentals could be a growing sector of the market to watch. 

“It could prove to be a clever choice for investors looking to maximise returns and meet market needs,” she said.

Talk to your property manager about your individual property and whether they think you will do better with a furnished or unfurnished place.

3. Air-conditioning and heating

Australian summers can be extremely hot, and while landlords aren’t legally required to install air-conditioning, more tenants are expecting this feature. In fact, many renters exclude properties without air-conditioning from their search entirely. The same applies to heating in the colder states - in fact heating is mandatory in Victoria.

The Victorian State Government has introduced that all living rooms in rental homes are required to include an electric cooling system. This comes into effect from 1 March 2027.

For landlords in other states, the good news is there are several affordable ways to keep your property cool without installing a full air-conditioning unit. Fixed fans and fly screens are a cost-effective way to improve ventilation and are highly valued by tenants.

4. Outdoor entertaining

A legacy of the pandemic, renters value being able to connect with the outdoors for both entertaining and relaxation. 

Whether it is a courtyard, balcony or a covered terrace overlooking a backyard, being able to access their outdoor space is highly rated. 

As tenants are usually responsible for keeping the garden tidy, there is a preference for low-maintenance yards.

Leasing consultant Tiffany Acevski from LJ Hooker Bankstown | Moorebank said there are few rental homes with pools in her area and when they are listed, they attract a lot of attention. While tenants will need to be responsible for most of the maintenance, it is a trade-off many people are happy to make to beat the heat. 

“People do love a pool because we are far from the beach, and it can be a real attraction for families in our area,” she said.

5. Home office

More people than ever before are working from home. The rise of remote and hybrid work arrangements has resulted in increased demand for rental properties with a dedicated study space.

A built-in desk, a spare room, or even a small nook suitable for working from home can make a property stand out in the market - especially if it’s well-lit, comfortable, and removed from main living areas, creating a more productive environment.

“There is still demand to have a dedicated space at home where people can work, even with businesses picking up the number of days staff are required in the office," Ms Crampton said. 

Renters are usually responsible for organising their own internet connection and phone line, if needed. Before choosing a property, they can check whether it’s already connected to the NBN using the service qualifier tool: https://www.telstra.com.au/broadband/nbn#service-qualifier.

6. EV chargers and solar panels

More tenants are looking for energy-efficient homes that have sustainable features, such as solar panels and places to charge electric cars. Other eco-features such as double-glazed windows and greywater recycling systems are also highly valued as they can help to reduce electricity bills.

“Tenants are increasingly drawn to properties with smart home features like keyless entry, security systems, and energy-efficient lighting, so it can make sense to integrate more technology if it is feasible,” Ms Crampton said.

7. Updated kitchen

A sleek kitchen is a major drawcard for tenants who will be keen for modern appliances, stone countertops and plenty of pantry space. If your budget doesn’t stretch for a full makeover, consider simple updates such as new splashback tiles.

Open-plan layouts that blend the kitchen with living areas are also highly regarded. “Dishwashers are now considered a standard inclusion,” Ms Crampton said.

“Without one, landlords have to attract a tenant willing to wash up by hand because, given a choice, people will always opt for a property with features that make everyday living a bit easier.”

8. Bathrooms and ensuites

Older-style bathrooms that are clean, hygienic and functional are often accepted by tenants. But they may not be so flexible if there is no ensuite in the master bedroom – particularly for couples or housemates sharing a property. Not having a freestanding bathtub will also reduce the pool of potential renters, particularly families with young children.

There are a range of features that can be upgraded or added to increase your chances of attracting a great renter. This could include modern taps, showerheads, or vanity units. Even small additions like extra storage, a heated towel rail, or improved lighting can help make your bathroom stand out.

9. Storage

Many renters value storage, particularly if they’re upgrading from a smaller property. Built-in wardrobes are also seen as a practical necessity for most tenants, and not having them can be a deal-breaker. Adequate storage for linen and general household items is also seen as a plus by tenants.

“Installing built-in wardrobes is a worthwhile investment for landlords as it not only makes a property more appealing but is likely to add value when it comes to selling,” Ms Crampton said.

10. Parking

Access to a garage is a big win for tenants, particularly in suburbs where finding a parking space can be tricky. Ms Acevski said renters do not want to be leaving their vehicles on the street. Instead, they want a designated car space or a secure lock-up garage with remote control access. Additionally, properties with extra storage space for bikes, tools, or seasonal items are highly desirable.

“If it is a house, then people usually want a double car garage with internal access into the home,” Ms Acevski said.

“Apartments in our area usually only come with one car space, but we always get requests from people looking to store more than one vehicle. The streets can be pretty busy and it can be hard to find parking so anything with a double garage goes very quickly.”

11. Security and safety features

Renters are paying more attention to security and safety when choosing a property. Features such as locking windows, deadbolts, sensor lights, and cameras can be very appealing. For apartments, modern intercom systems, especially those with cameras, are a great bonus.

These security features provide tenants with peace of mind and show that the landlord values safety and is proactive about prioritising the wellbeing of renters. In the end, a safer property is more likely to attract tenants looking to settle down long-term, so these features should always be highlighted.

12. Energy efficient devices

With rising energy costs, energy efficiency has become increasingly important. Renters appreciate homes that include energy-efficient appliances and fixtures, benefiting both their bills and the environment. Cost-effective options include LED lighting, ceiling fans, and solar outdoor lighting.

13. Low-maintenance finishes

Tenants prefer properties that are easy to clean and maintain. That’s why low-maintenance materials and fixtures are always a great feature, such as floor finishes like tiles or laminate, neutral colours on the walls, tough stone benchtops, and sturdy bathroom fittings. 

These features also benefit investors by reducing the risk of damage and lowering repair costs. At the same time, tenants can enjoy a home that’s easy to care for - a win for everyone.

Make your rental property stand out

Highlighting these features in property listings can make your property more appealing and ensure it stands out from the competition. Your local LJ Hooker property manager can provide insight into what types of properties and inclusions are popular in your suburb. Book a free rental appraisal here. 

DISCLAIMER - The information provided is for guidance and informational purposes only and does not replace independent business, legal and financial advice which we strongly recommend. Whilst the information is considered true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact the accuracy of the information provided. LJ Hooker will not accept responsibility or liability for any reliance on the blog information, including but not limited to, the accuracy, currency or completeness of any information or links.