Best Time to Lease Your Property in Melbourne CBD

May 23, 2025

If you are considering leasing your property in Melbourne’s CBD, timing is crucial—particularly with international students driving much of the rental demand.

The peak leasing period is January to February, coinciding with the arrival of students for the university year. During this time, vacancy rates drop significantly. As of March 2025, Melbourne’s vacancy rate stood at 1.5%, reflecting a tight rental market . A secondary peak occurs in July, aligning with mid-year intakes.SQM Research

While international students comprise less than 7% of all renters nationally , their concentration in the CBD is notable. Many prefer apartments near major universities, especially given the shortfall of 15,000–20,000 purpose-built student accommodation beds in central Melbourne .

Additionally, factors like rising borrowing costs and increased land taxes have led many investors to sell, reducing the number of available rentals .

Considering leasing? Speak with our team today to make the most of Melbourne’s high-demand rental window.

Categories: Rent, Lease

Share this article to

Melbourne Real Estate News and Updates

Stay informed with expert insights, market updates, and lifestyle tips from the heart of Melbourne’s property scene. The Melcorp real estate agency Melbourne blog is your go-to resource for all things real estate.

How to find a good property manager in Melbourne: what to look for in 2026

In a fast-moving market like Melbourne, your investment property is more than just four walls and a roof; it’s a high-stakes financial asset. Many owners make the mistake of choosing a property manager based solely on the lowest commission, only to find that “cheap” management often comes with the high price of long vacancies, poor … More

Pet-Friendly Rental Properties Melbourne: What Every Renter Must Know

Finding a home that welcomes both you and your pet can feel like an uphill battle in Melbourne’s competitive rental market. With vacancy rates at record lows and many rental providers still hesitant to allow animals, renters often face a difficult choice: compromise on housing or fight for a space where their furry companion is … More

Rental Appraisal vs Property Valuation: When Do You Need Each?

Rental appraisal and property valuation are often interchanged. They both provide an estimate of how much a property is worth. But they serve very different purposes, are carried out by different professionals, and have very different legal and financial implications. As a property owner, understanding their differences can affect how you manage your property, how … More

How to Get Approved for a Rental Property in Melbourne CBD for First-Time Renters

The idea of waking up in the heart of Melbourne is enough to make anyone excited. But for first-time renters, the path to securing that dream apartment can feel like navigating a maze of paperwork, competition, and unfamiliar rules. Additionally, the Melbourne CBD rental market is one of the most competitive in the country. This … More

Property Owners in Melbourne: When to Get a Rental Appraisal?

For property owners in Melbourne, it’s easy to fall into the habit of setting rent once and forgetting about it, especially if your tenants are long-term and your property stays occupied. However, without regular rental appraisals, you risk undercharging your tenants, or missing important signals in a shifting market. In this guide, our experts at … More