The best time of year to search for your new rental according to the experts

If there’s ever a month for scooping up the perfect place, it’s January. Here’s how to get a head start on your rental search.

While everyone’s busy with New Year’s resolutions and dusting off gym memberships, rental listings are popping up like crazy at the start of the year.

And so, if there’s ever a time for a ‘fresh start’, this is it.

But why January, you ask? Here’s a quick squiz at the data.

January Means More Choices

Based on data from PropTrack, there’s 19% more new listings in January than any other month.

That means more options to choose from, more neighbourhoods to explore, and, honestly, just less of the endless scroll of the same listings popping up.

Think of it like Netflix dropping a whole new season you can binge over a weekend. It’s fresh, it’s exciting, and it’s a prime time to jump right in.

But Be Prepared: Competition Heats Up Fast!

There’s a little twist, though: with all those new listings comes a surge in renters with the same idea.

January sees rental enquiries spike 53% higher than at other times of the year. Yep, it’s like a New Year’s sale but for rentals.

And just like those sale racks, the best finds get picked off quickly.

So, if you want to score the rental of your dreams, be ready to move fast.

4 Tips to Get Ahead in January’s Rental Rush

Want to make January your most successful rental search yet?

Here are some expert tips to maximise your search.

1. Have all your docs ready to go.

The competition is real.

So to get ahead, gather up all your references, ID, and financial docs ahead of time.

When you find a great listing, you’ll be ready to apply immediately after the inspection and won’t miss out.

Plus, a polished application can make a strong first impression on landlords and real estate agents.

Show up organised, and you’re already one step ahead of the others.

2. Set up the right alerts.

Alerts can be lifesavers, notifying you as soon as new listings meet your criteria.

It’s one of the easiest ways to stay ahead without constantly refreshing pages.

January is all about maximising your choices.

With alerts doing the heavy lifting, you’ll be in the know on the best spots as soon as they hit the market - no FOMO, no missed opportunities.

And hey, the more places you check out, the better chances of finding that rental that ticks all the boxes.

3. Seek professional help.

Moving can be a headache, and so look to the professionals for an extra set of hands.

But be careful, because these days, anyone with a truck can offer a removalist service. It’s often wiser to stick with reputable companies to ensure a smooth process.

Look to pros like Holloway Removals and Storage, one of Australia’s most experienced companies.

You may also need some storage, as there may be a gap of time between moving out of your old home and into your new one.

And if you are looking to move early in the new year, it’s worth securing the movers well in advance because, again, there’s competition.

Either way, planning ahead is critical, and Holloway can help guide you through what needs to be done. And with services in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, you’re covered no matter where you live.

And if your new rental adventure is taking you interstate, Holloway Removals and Storage take care of that too, and make it a less stressful experience along the way.

Don’t be afraid to call and ask for advice.

4. Jump on it, fast.

Timing is everything – so if you’re ready to go the minute a great rental pops up, you’ll have a real advantage.

Landlords and real estate agents are often flooded with applications this time of year, so make sure yours is one of the first to arrive.

If a property is open for inspection, aim to attend as early as possible.

And, if you’re serious about the place, don’t be afraid to follow up with the agent the same day.

A prompt, professional message expressing your interest can sometimes put you at the top of the list.

So…

Start early, move fast, and before you know it, you’ll be kicking back in your new place, wondering why you didn’t make the move sooner.

Happy house hunting, and may the rental odds be ever in your favour!