Rethinking Rentals: Why Today’s Tenants Want More Than Just a Roof Over Their Heads
The nature of work is shifting—fast. As generative AI tools and hybrid roles reshape the professional landscape, the traditional 9-to-5 office worker is becoming less common. More Australians are working from home, freelancing, or blending multiple income streams. For landlords, this shift opens up a new kind of opportunity: aligning rental properties with the evolving needs of a modern, professional tenant.
While headlines often focus on interest rates or rental caps, it’s workforce trends like these that quietly shape demand, retention, and rentability. Understanding them can make a significant difference in your rental returns.
The Rise of the Hybrid Tenant
According to the latest employment forecasts by Deloitte Access Economics, productivity remains a national concern—but technological change is moving quickly. Their May 2025 release highlighted the growing influence of generative AI in the workforce. As routine tasks are automated, workers across industries are seeing their roles redefined. Professionals in law, accounting, consulting, media, and tech are increasingly working from home or adopting flexible schedules.
The outcome? A surge in renters who place real value on properties that can accommodate both living and working.
What These Tenants Are Looking For
Modern tenants aren't just scanning listings for bedroom counts. They're checking Wi-Fi speeds, lighting, floorplans, and even the quality of the backdrop for video calls. If your investment property has:
- A spare bedroom or nook that functions as a home office
- Reliable high-speed internet access
- Natural lighting and good ventilation
- Quiet surroundings or soundproofing
… you may already be sitting on an in-demand asset—without needing major renovations.
Work-Life Fit: The New Rental Premium
In the past, landlords could rely on location alone. Today, work-life functionality can justify a rental premium. Tenants are willing to pay more for convenience, comfort, and flexibility. They also tend to stay longer, valuing the hassle-free lifestyle your property supports.
As public sector jobs in education, health care, and administration continue to grow (another Deloitte observation), so does a class of tenant that craves predictability at home to balance increasingly fluid work arrangements.
What Landlords Can Do Now
If your property has flexible living space, now is the time to highlight it in your listings. Even a small change in layout or furnishing can open up your property to a broader, more stable tenant market.
Not sure how to position your rental for the new wave of professional tenants? That’s where we come in.
Want help attracting long-term tenants who value modern living? Contact our expert team at leasing@clubpropertymanagement.com.au. We'll help you present and manage your property to meet changing tenant needs—so your investment stays ahead of the curve.
Source: Deloitte Access Economics, Employment Forecasts – May 2025