Private Rentals in WA
Private Rentals in WA
Blog Article
Private Rentals in WA: A Comprehensive Guide for Landlords
Western Australia (WA) has a thriving rental market, offering landlords excellent opportunities to lease their properties privately. Whether you own an apartment in Perth, a suburban home, or a regional property, managing a private rental can help you save on agent fees while maintaining control over the leasing process. Thanks to modern online platforms like realestate.com.au, domain.com.au, rent.com.au, and Rentscape, advertising a rental property has never been easier.
This guide will walk you through the benefits, legal requirements, and step-by-step instructions on how to successfully manage a private rental in WA.
Why Choose Private Rentals in WA?
Many landlords are choosing private rentals over traditional property management services due to several advantages:
1. Lower Costs
By handling your rental privately, you eliminate property management fees, which typically range from 7% to 10% of the rental income. This means more money in your pocket every month.
2. Direct Control
As a private landlord, you have full control over:
✔ Tenant selection
✔ Rent pricing
✔ Maintenance and repairs
✔ Lease terms
This flexibility allows you to create a rental agreement that suits both you and your tenants.
3. Easier Online Advertising
Listing on platforms like realestate.com.au, domain.com.au, rent.com.au, and Rentscape allows private landlords to reach a large pool of potential tenants without needing an agent.
4. Clear Communication with Tenants
Without a middleman, you can directly handle tenant concerns, reducing misunderstandings and improving tenant-landlord relationships.
How to List a Private Rental in WA
Step 1: Prepare Your Property for Rent
Before advertising, ensure your property is in excellent condition. A well-maintained home attracts high-quality tenants.
Checklist for Property Preparation:
✔ Cleaning & Repairs – Ensure the property is spotless and fix any issues.
✔ Safety Compliance – WA law requires smoke alarms and RCDs (residual current devices) to be installed.
✔ Property Features – Consider adding air conditioning, modern appliances, or fresh paint to increase appeal.
Step 2: Determine Your Rent Price
Setting the right rent ensures you attract tenants while maximizing your return.
???? Research Market Rates – Check realestate.com.au and domain.com.au for similar listings in your area.
???? Consider Your Property’s Value – Factors like location, condition, and amenities affect rental pricing.
???? Balance Affordability & Profitability – A competitively priced rental reduces vacancy periods.
Step 3: Advertise on Online Rental Platforms
To reach more tenants, list your property on popular platforms:
✔ realestate.com.au – Australia’s largest real estate website.
✔ domain.com.au – A top competitor for rental listings.
✔ rent.com.au – Specializes in rental properties.
✔ Rentscape – An easy-to-use platform for private landlords to advertise efficiently.
By using Rentscape, you can list your rental on multiple platforms without needing a real estate agent.
Step 4: Create an Engaging Rental Listing
A well-crafted listing attracts quality tenants quickly. Include:
✔ High-Quality Photos – Clear, bright images of each room and outdoor spaces.
✔ Detailed Description – Highlight key features, such as air conditioning, parking, or a renovated kitchen.
✔ Rental Terms – Clearly state the rent amount, bond, and lease duration.
✔ Location & Nearby Amenities – Mention proximity to schools, transport, and shopping centers.
Step 5: Screen Tenants Carefully
Choosing the right tenant prevents issues like late payments or property damage.
✅ Verify Rental History – Ask for references from previous landlords.
✅ Check Employment & Income – Ensure tenants can afford the rent.
✅ Conduct a Background Check – Use tenancy databases to screen for past rental issues.
Step 6: Draft a Legally Compliant Lease Agreement
In WA, rental agreements must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act 1987. The lease should include:
✔ Lease Duration – Fixed-term or periodic.
✔ Bond & Rent Payment Terms – Bond must be lodged with the Bond Administrator (Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety - DMIRS).
✔ Property Rules – Pet policies, maintenance responsibilities, and notice periods.
Step 7: Lodge the Rental Bond
In WA, landlords must lodge the bond with the Bond Administrator (DMIRS) within 14 days of receiving it. This protects both parties in case of disputes.
Step 8: Conduct Property Condition Reports
Before a tenant moves in, complete a Property Condition Report (PCR). This details the property's state at the start of the lease. A final PCR is done when the tenant vacates.
Step 9: Manage the Rental Professionally
Once a tenant moves in, landlords are responsible for:
✔ Handling Repairs Promptly – WA law requires urgent repairs (e.g., plumbing, electricity) to be fixed immediately.
✔ Conducting Routine Inspections – Inspections can be done up to four times per year with proper notice.
✔ Collecting Rent Efficiently – Set up an easy payment system to ensure on-time rent collection.
Legal Considerations for Private Rentals in WA
1. Landlord & Tenant Rights
◆ WA landlords must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act 1987, which protects tenant rights.
2. Rent Increases
◆ Allowed every six months for periodic leases.
◆ Tenants must receive 60 days’ notice in writing.
3. Ending a Lease
◆ Fixed-term leases require proper notice before expiration.
◆ Periodic leases can be ended with 60 days’ notice.
◆ Tenants must receive written notice before eviction.
4. Maintenance Responsibilities
◆ Urgent repairs must be fixed immediately.
◆ Non-urgent repairs must be addressed within a reasonable timeframe.
Conclusion
Managing a private rental in WA is a cost-effective and rewarding option for landlords. By listing on platforms like realestate.com.au, domain.com.au, rent.com.au, and Rentscape, landlords can reach tenants quickly and avoid agent fees.
Following this guide ensures you:
✅ Set the right rent price
✅ Advertise effectively
✅ Find reliable tenants
✅ Manage your rental legally
With the right approach, private rentals WA can be both profitable and hassle-free!