Kirsty-Lee Bimrose,
Investment Property Consultant at Image Property.
3 ways to reduce rental vacancy in Queensland
Vacancy is one of the biggest threats to consistent return on investment for Queensland landlords. Even just a short period without rental income can start to chip away at annual yield, especially when combined with rates, insurance, and ongoing upkeep.
While a small gap between tenants is sometimes unavoidable – and in many cases, beneficial – it should be planned, purposeful, and as brief as practical. The aim is to maintain momentum between tenancies while still ensuring the property remains in good condition.
There are three main areas that make the biggest difference when it comes to reducing vacancy: pricing, timing, and presentation.
Get Pricing Right
The most common reason rentals sit empty is misalignment with the market. And in a shifting market, pricing can move quickly. Many landlords look at advertised listings to gauge where rent should sit. However, advertised listings reflect asking rent, not achieved rent. A property may be advertised at a higher price but lease for something lower after several weeks on the market.
The most accurate measure is leased prices over the past 2-4 weeks for comparable properties in the same suburb. This shows what tenants are actually paying in real time.
Overpricing often results in a longer vacancy period, and even just one or two extra weeks vacant can outweigh any advantage gained by listing the property higher. In contrast, a realistic and well-positioned rental price can generate stronger enquiry, more applications, and ultimately provide greater confidence in selecting the right tenant for the long term.
Start Marketing Before the Tenant Moves Out
A proactive lead-up period can significantly reduce downtime. The moment a tenant provides notice, your property manager should be:
- Scheduling photography updates if required
- Preparing marketing materials
- Planning open home dates
- Contacting upcoming applicant lists and enquiry leads
- Updating listing copy to reflect any new improvements
In many cases, strong enquiry can begin before the current tenant has even vacated. This allows prospective tenants to be pre-qualified, inspections to be arranged promptly, and applications to be processed quickly.
When handled well, a lease can sometimes be finalised within days of the previous tenant leaving, limiting vacancy to only the time required for cleaning and any light maintenance.
Presentation Makes a Noticeable Difference
First impressions matter – both online and in person. Homes that present well generate more enquiry and stronger competition. Even small improvements can lift appeal dramatically.
Consider the following before relisting:
- Fresh paint in high-traffic areas or where scuffing is visible
- Professional cleaning to reset the property to a move-in-ready level
- Gardening and exterior tidy-ups to boost street presence
- Replacing tired fixtures like blinds, handles, or tapware
- Simple styling for photos to help the listing stand out online
This does not mean major renovations are required. Often, targeted improvements signal care and quality, helping to draw interest from stable, longer-term tenants.
Why Minimising Vacancy Matters Long-Term
Minimising vacancy is not only about maintaining rental income – it is also about positioning the property for stable performance. A tenant who moves into a well-presented property, at a fair price, with a clear and smooth handover is more likely to:
- Stay longer
- Look after the property well
- Communicate openly when issues arise
This reduces turnover, reduces wear and tear between leases, and helps maintain consistent returns over time.
Vacancy can be managed effectively with clear planning, correct pricing, timely marketing, and thoughtful presentation.
A strategic approach now supports better outcomes in the long run, both financially and in maintaining the condition of your property.
If you would like tailored advice specific to your property or suburb, our team is here to help you understand market conditions and plan ahead with confidence.
