Improving a rental property starts with understanding the people likely to rent it and what the proposed work will cost. A higher advertised rent is only one part of the result.
Test demand for furniture
Ask about local demand for furnished homes before buying a full furniture package. Include storage, replacement and maintenance costs in the decision. A furnished property will not suit every applicant.
Assess solar realistically
Solar may reduce electricity costs, but savings depend on the system, usage, tariffs and conditions. It does not guarantee a zero bill or a rent premium. Obtain a property-specific estimate and clarify metering, ownership and maintenance arrangements.
Choose useful improvements
Compare the cost of storage, appliances or a bathroom refresh with evidence of local demand. Prioritise defects and practical usability before optional finishes. Get approval for work where required and confirm the specification before ordering.
Check the whole return
Include vacancy, repairs, management and the cost of the upgrade when evaluating the result. Improvements do not bypass NSW rules for changing the rent during an existing tenancy. Check the applicable process before proposing an increase.
Sources and current guidance
Guidance reviewed 3 October 2026. Check the linked official information for your circumstances.
