In today’s shifting rental landscape, many rental providers are turning their attention to one crucial question: how do I get more out of what I already own?
While capital growth often takes the spotlight, improving rental yield can deliver meaningful gains—especially in a high-demand, low-supply market. With the right approach, increasing your return doesn’t require a complete overhaul, just a few strategic adjustments.
Retain great renters
It’s often said that a good tenant is worth their weight in gold—and it’s true. Reliable renters reduce vacancy risk, pay rent on time, and often take better care of the property. Retaining a consistent lease means fewer advertising costs, less wear and tear from turnover, and a more consistent income stream. Your Kay & Burton property manager proactively manages lease renewals and renter relationships to encourage longer tenure.
Present the property to meet renter expectations
Small cosmetic upgrades can make a significant impact. Fresh paint, modern tapware or updated light fittings can elevate your property’s appeal and justify a higher rental rate. Importantly, these improvements often translate into better quality applications and longer tenancies.
Protect your asset, proactively
Deferred maintenance often leads to avoidable vacancies. A property that’s well-maintained signals to tenants that it’s valued—and encourages them to treat it the same way. From a rental yield perspective, proactive upkeep isn’t a cost; it’s an investment in continuity.
Review your rent with purpose
Regular rent reviews are essential—not just in line with CPI or market trends, but also to reflect the condition and appeal of your property. Well-timed, market appropriate increases can support a stronger yield without disrupting renter retention. Your property manager should provide clear market comparables and guidance, so any adjustment feels informed and fair.
Consider a fully furnished offering
Furnished rentals can command higher rent, particularly in high-demand urban areas. They appeal to professionals relocating for work, international tenants, and short-term renters seeking convenience and flexibility. Kay & Burton is one of the few agencies with a dedicated division for fully furnished, short-to-medium-term accommodation. We’re the first port of call for corporate clients, and our approach often delivers better returns and greater leasing flexibility.
Leverage tax depreciation
For property investors, tax depreciation remains one of the most underutilised yet impactful deductions. While depreciation—the natural wear and tear on a property over time—is inevitable, savvy rental providers can turn it into a financial advantage. The ATO allows owners of income-producing properties to claim depreciation on the building’s structure and on fixtures and fittings. A tax depreciation schedule, created by qualified quantity surveyors, can unlock thousands in deductions across a property’s lifetime—often up to 40 years.
Reconsider the structure, not just the rent
Is your loan working for you? Even small changes to your mortgage product or interest rate can meaningfully improve cash flow. An annual check-in with your broker or financial adviser can help ensure your financing structure is supporting—not limiting—your investment goals.
Work with the right people
Having the right property management team behind you can make all the difference. From spotting opportunities to lift rental yield, to protecting your asset’s value, an experienced and proactive manager will ensure you make confident, informed decisions at every stage of the investment journey.
To discuss how these strategies could apply to your individual circumstances, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kay & Burton Director of Property Management, Cath Stubbings on +61 411 101 999 or cstubbings@kayburton.com.au
Director of Property Management