As we move through the 2025–26 financial year, the Perth rental market continues to demonstrate resilience, with strong tenant demand and low vacancy rates supporting positive outcomes for property investors.
At Abel Property, we’ve taken a closer look at how the market has performed over the past quarter, along with insights from our own portfolio to help guide our clients through the months ahead.
What’s Happening in the Perth Rental Market?
The Perth rental market remains highly competitive, although conditions have begun to stabilise compared to the rapid growth seen throughout 2024 and early 2025.
Vacancy rates across Perth have increased slightly from historic lows but remain tight overall, with demand for well-presented and well-managed properties continuing to exceed supply.
A combination of ongoing population growth, limited housing availability, and affordability pressures in the sales market is continuing to drive strong demand for rental properties across the metro area.
Leasing Performance Remains Strong
Over the past three months, leasing activity across the Abel Property portfolio has remained exceptionally strong, reflecting both market conditions and a proactive approach to property management.
Key leasing insights:
- Average days on market: 4.5 days
- Average applications per property: 6
- Current vacancy rate: 0.57%
These results highlight the importance of accurate pricing, high-quality marketing, and strategic campaign management. Properties that are well-presented and correctly positioned in the market are continuing to lease quickly, often with multiple applications.
Rental Performance and Market Movement
While rental growth has moderated compared to previous periods, upward pressure on rents remains evident.
Over the past quarter:
- 77 rent increases have been implemented across our portfolio
- Average rent has increased from $710 to $725 per week
This steady growth reflects a more balanced phase of the market, where increases are being applied strategically to align with current conditions while maintaining tenant retention.
Our focus remains on achieving sustainable rental growth that supports long-term investment performance, rather than short-term gains.
Proactive Lease Renewals Supporting Stability
A key factor in minimising vacancy and protecting rental income is early and proactive lease management.
At Abel Property, our lease renewal process is initiated 90 days prior to expiry, ensuring:
- Sufficient time to review current market conditions
- Open communication with tenants
- Reduced risk of vacancy between tenancies
This structured approach allows us to secure renewals earlier and provide our clients with greater certainty around their investment income.
Arrears Management and Tenant Quality
Strong tenant selection and consistent arrears management continue to underpin portfolio performance.
Currently, only 5 tenants are in arrears by more than 7 days, reflecting:
- Careful application screening
- Clear communication of tenant expectations
- Ongoing monitoring and early intervention
Maintaining low arrears is a critical component of protecting rental income and ensuring a stable investment experience for our clients.
What’s Driving the Market in 2026?
Several key factors continue to influence the Perth rental market:
- Ongoing population growth across Western Australia
- Continued supply constraints in the rental market
- Affordability challenges in the sales market keeping more tenants renting
While the pace of change has eased, these underlying fundamentals remain strong and are expected to continue supporting rental demand.
Outlook for the Months Ahead
Looking forward, the Perth rental market is expected to remain tight, with more measured and sustainable rental growth.
For property owners, this creates an environment where strategic management is more important than ever. Key areas of focus should include:
- Evidence-based rent reviews
- Maintaining property presentation
- Proactive lease renewal planning
- Minimising vacancy through active management
Supporting Your Investment
At Abel Property, our focus is on delivering proactive, informed property management that adapts to changing market conditions while protecting long-term investment performance.
If you would like an update on your property, advice on your next rent review, or guidance on maximising your returns in the current market, our team is here to help.