If you read the papers, scroll social media, or just step outside your front door, it’s hard to miss the headlines — housing pressures, record-low rental vacancy rates, and the rising cost of living are reshaping how we live, rent, and invest.
And while all of these topics are important to most people right now, there is so much more to the rental conversation that needs to be covered, so both renters and property investors can make informed decisions that are in their best interest, now and later.
We sat down with Nathan, one of our trusted Investment Specialists, to talk through what’s really happening in the rental space across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie — the highs, the hurdles, and the opportunities hiding in plain sight.
From the types of homes tenants are rushing to apply for, to how properties can stand out in a crowded market, Nathan brings a wealth of experience and honest insight to the table.
1. What is the state of the rental market in Newcastle at the moment?
Right now, Newcastle’s rental market is experiencing a unique tension. On one hand, we’re still seeing record-low vacancy rates overall — a reflection of strong tenant demand. On the other hand, some pockets of the market are showing signs of oversupply, particularly in certain suburbs or property types, which is leading to longer days on market and sporadic pricing but still leasing strong in some particular areas.
The key strategy is choosing an investment specialist, not a property manager to start the process. A well-presented home, priced carefully, and backed by a responsive leasing team, will move quickly.
And that’s where we can come in. Something we’re proud of, and also really enjoy, is how much knowledge, value and experience we can bring to the table, so your tailored leasing strategy is truly effective, and your experience is as easy and effortless as possible.
2. What properties are most in demand?
We’re seeing strong demand for well-presented one-bedroom apartments in the Newcastle city district and surrounding suburbs.
In the suburbs, it’s the freshly built granny flats/dual occupancy properties catching attention — mainly because they’re priced under $600 a week, which is great value considering the average rent for those properties across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie is now pushing past $700 per week.
3. Do you have many renters waiting on properties?
We certainly do — we have a strong list of pre-qualified tenants with solid track records, great rental histories, and the means to afford quality homes. They’re ready and waiting for a great property right now.
Our internal database is directly linked with 2Apply, and our proven leasing procedure ensures a seamless experience for both landlords and tenants. We also showcase preview listings on the Presence website before they officially go live — allowing us to market properties, hold open homes and process applications early.
The level of interest we’re seeing right now is incredible. So, if you’re a property owner in the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Nelson Bay or Hunter Valley, and you’re looking for fantastic tenants and a highly professional, proactive property management experience — we’d love to hear from you.
4. How is your/Presence’s service different to other PMs?
At Presence, we’re proudly customer obsessed. From start to finish, the experience has to be first class.
We’ve placed dedicated, highly skilled professionals in key roles across the business to ensure our clients get nothing less than outstanding service.
Clear communication, expert property management, and a genuine focus on satisfaction — that’s what sets us apart.
Now, probably you’re thinking every agency would say something just like that, and maybe they would, but I think the very extensive list of positive reviews on Google and loyal and dedicated clients and developers speaks volumes, and reinforce that our focus on our customer’s experience is at the forefront of everything we do.
5. What are some of your favourite moments from your PM career?
There have been so many special moments, but a standout is always helping a great family settle into their new home. Whether it’s supporting clients as they upsize for a growing family or leasing out their first-ever property — it’s really rewarding to be part of those milestones.
6. What’s your best advice to upcoming investors, existing PMs and renters?
To investors:
Get in touch with me or our Investment Specialist team early in your journey. We can guide you on where, what and how to buy smart — showcasing strong-performing areas, recommending the right types of properties, and connecting you with trusted trades to enhance appeal and rental returns, while providing value-added advice throughout the purchasing process.
To renters:
Come prepared. Applying for a rental is a bit like applying for a loan — you need to do your research, understand what’s affordable for you, show up on time to inspections, and submit a complete application. That means payslips, ID, and all the supporting documents for everyone applying. And don’t hesitate to ask us questions, we’re here to help!
