Why These Melbourne Apartments Are Winning Long-Term Tenants

Renting is now a long time for many Victorians, with a growing number embracing the lifestyle benefits.

The Australian leasing landscape has changed dramatically, with a greater demand for good leasing than ever before.

Almost a third of Victorian households were renting according to the 2021 census, an increase of 16% between 2016 and 2021, and that number is expected to continue to grow.

And while for some Australians renting is still a stepping stone to ownership, for others, it has now become a lifestyle that better suits their spending habits, select community and desire for flexibility.

New build-to-rent (BTR) projects are revolutionizing the renting experience, giving tenants greater security and more choice, as well as access to great features.

Why a lease is important for convenience

When it comes to choosing the right rental, location is everything.

BTR projects such as Local Residence understand this well and are built in highly sought-after locations within the city to attract tenants.

Megan Hondromatidis, General Manager of Marketing and Communications at Local Residential, believes that for many renters, location brings the next level of convenience.

“It’s about being comfortable and loving where you live,” he said.

“Our properties are in high-traffic areas, so residents are very close to everything they need.”

“They can grab shopping without the need to jump in the car, go straight to the train, tram or bus – all the essentials are within easy walking distance, and that’s the main difference from most traditional rentals.”

He points to new residential areas in Kensington and Box Hill as good examples of being at the heart of the action.

Both are just minutes’ walk from public transport, shopping areas, green spaces, and education and healthcare.

The Hondromatidis say most residents don’t need cars to get around, which is an added bonus.

This area is just the beginning of entertainment, with facilities that also offer sought-after lifestyle features such as heated pools, fully equipped gyms, wellness centers and private restaurants.

They also have private interaction spaces, creative studios and entertainment rooms with big screens.

Having all these facilities in the building has generated so much interest that Location: Residential projects have started in other key areas such as Southbank, South Melbourne, Fitzroy and Docklands.

Local housing selects areas in healthy urban areas for ease of living.

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The pet-friendly difference

For many renters, a house is not a home without a furry friend, but the reality is that finding a pet-friendly rental can be a challenge for renters.

That is changing.

All Local Residential apartments are not only pet-friendly, but there are also amenities that cater specifically to pets.

“There are pet washers with cute little tubs and hot and cold running water for maximum comfort for your pet,” says Hondromatidis.

“You can bathe your pets outside of your apartment. There are dog walks and play areas, and pet parking areas where pet owners can enjoy time with their furry friends.”

With several pet-friendly and pet-free locations, there is a balance for both pet lovers and those who prefer pet-free locations.

With pet-friendly apartments and spaces, Local Living means tenants don’t have to compromise on pet ownership.

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Smart design appeals to modern tenants

The interior of the houses has also been rethought with a modern minimalist aesthetic and designs that maximize space.

There is a selection of studio, four, two and three bedroom apartments that are clean, functional and attractive.

“It certainly doesn’t lack features, but it expands the whole space,” explains Hondromatidis.

“Wherever we can achieve smart storage and use of space, we have it. There are things like built-in white goods that are integrated into the design of the apartment and come as part of your rent: your washing machine, your dryer, your refrigerator.”

This means that residents don’t have to worry about their electronics not being put in the hole or their washer and dryer not being able to pack away – it’s already been done for them.

He added that residents can paint walls and make any non-structural changes.

“We find that people want to make it their own, and we designed it so they can.”

In addition to the smart design, tenants are offered flexibility with lease terms ranging from six months to five years, and a bond as low as $1,000. The recruitment itself is refreshingly easy too.

Forget competing with dozens of other applicants in an open audition, Local Residence operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

New renters can book a tailored one-on-one experience with the rental team at a time that suits them. Wasting a Saturday morning competing with a crowd of competing applicants is a thing of the past.

And, once you’re in, a team of local residents and maintenance staff are on hand to help.

Apartments at Local Kensington and Box Hill are designed to maximize space and lifestyle.

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A rental property where you can build connections

BTR housing estates such as Local Kensington and Box Hill are also trying to change the long-held stereotype of lonely housing by taking real steps to build community.

In order to create connections between residents, the buildings host a series of regular events – from salsa classes and fitness-oriented activities to regular social gatherings – that give residents the opportunity to socialize and connect.

“People can interact and be as social as they want in these types of places. And if the social aspect is not there for them, that’s good too,” said Hondromatidis.

“But it’s good for citizens to have a choice, and we know from the feedback that choice really appeals to a lot of people.”