A Guide to Renting in Melbourne by Real Inspect 

Written By Inspection Mate

Navigating the Melbourne rental market can be a challenge, especially when you're searching from overseas or interstate. This guide will walk you through the key steps to finding and securing your property, and show you how our service makes the process seamless.

Step 1: Find your suburb

Before you start your search, it's crucial to know what you're looking for. Consider these factors to create a clear picture of your ideal rental property.

  • Location vs. Budget: Before you begin your search, it's crucial to decide whether your priority is a specific location or your budget. Major Australian cities offer good public transport to commute to the CBD. 

  • Inspections: The best way to secure a property is by attending a scheduled inspection which we can help. Note that some agents do not accept applications if you haven’t registered to attend the inspection.

  • Accommodation Type:

  • Budget: Be realistic about your budget. Remember to factor in not just the weekly rent, but other possible expenses like utilities and public transport costs.

  • Rental Payments

    • Weekly Rent: Rent is typically quoted as a weekly amount, even if you arrange to pay fortnightly or monthly.

    • Bond: In addition to your rent, you will be required to pay a security deposit, known as a "bond." This is usually equivalent to 2-4 weeks' rent.  Bond will be refunded when moving out.

Melbourne CBD & Inner City

The Central Business District (CBD) and its surrounding suburbs are the core of the city's commercial and cultural life. Renting here is ideal for students or young professionals who want to be close to work, nightlife, and key universities.

  • Estimated rental for a room: $AUD350 - $AUD600+ per week.

  • Recommended rental suburbs: Melbourne CBD, Carlton, North Melbourne, Southbank, Docklands, and East Melbourne.

  • Universities: University of Melbourne (Parkville Campus), RMIT University (City Campus), Monash University (Parkville and Collins Street Campuses), and Victoria University.

  • Primary and high schools: Melbourne Girls Grammar, Trinity Grammar School (in nearby Kew), and Melbourne High School.

Inner East

The Inner East is a more affluent area known for its leafy streets, beautiful period homes, and high-end shopping. It offers a more relaxed lifestyle than the CBD while still being well-connected.

  • Estimated rental for a room: $AUD300 - $AUD550 per week.

  • Recommended rental suburbs: Richmond, Hawthorn, Camberwell, Kew, and South Yarra.

  • Universities: Swinburne University of Technology (Hawthorn Campus) and Monash University (Caulfield Campus).

  • Primary and high schools: Camberwell Grammar School, Trinity Grammar School, Scotch College, and Haileybury College.

Northern Suburbs

This area is known for its diverse and bohemian culture. It has a mix of older, established suburbs and new developments, offering a variety of housing types and price points. The northern suburbs have great public transport options.

  • Estimated rental for a room: $AUD250 - $AUD450 per week.

  • Recommended rental suburbs: Brunswick, Fitzroy, Northcote, Preston, and Coburg.

  • Universities: RMIT University (Brunswick Campus) is located in this region. The University of Melbourne (Parkville campus) is also on the edge of this area.

  • Primary and high schools: Fitzroy High School, Northcote High School, and Brunswick Secondary College.

Western Suburbs

Traditionally known as an industrial area, the Western Suburbs have been undergoing rapid gentrification, making them popular with young families and professionals seeking more affordable housing. They are well-serviced by public transport and offer a diverse community.

  • Estimated rental for a room: $AUD200 - $AUD400 per week.

  • Recommended rental suburbs: Footscray, Yarraville, Seddon, Kingsville, and Sunshine.

  • Universities: Victoria University has campuses throughout this region, including Footscray.

  • Primary and high schools: Footscray City College, The Mac.Robertson Girls' High School, and Melbourne High School.

Eastern Suburbs

This is a broad region that includes both inner and outer suburbs. It is a major educational hub, home to several universities, and offers a good mix of residential and commercial areas.

  • Estimated rental for a room: $AUD250 - $AUD450 per week.

  • Recommended rental suburbs: Burwood, Glen Waverley, Box Hill, and Doncaster.

  • Universities: Deakin University (Burwood Campus), Swinburne University of Technology (Croydon and Wantirna Campuses), and RMIT University (Bundoora Campus).

  • Primary and high schools: St Leonard's College, Caulfield Grammar School, and Mount Scopus Memorial College.

South-Eastern Suburbs

This large and varied region includes suburbs stretching down towards the Mornington Peninsula. It is home to Monash University's largest campuses, and has many well-regarded schools.

  • Estimated rental for a room: $AUD250 - $AUD400 per week.

  • Recommended rental suburbs: Clayton, Chadstone and Springvale.

  • Universities: Monash University (Clayton and Peninsula Campuses).

  • Primary and high schools: Scotch College and Haileybury College.

Step 2: Book Your Inspection 

Now that you've found a few properties you're interested in, this is where we come in. Since you can't be here in person, our service provides the on-the-ground support you need to make a confident decision.

  • Simply find the property on one of the websites above.

  • Book on our website www.real-inspect.com.au or Email Us at info@real-inspect.com.au .

  • If you need further assistance, feel free to book our Rental consultation ($50) and we will work with your preferences.

Inspection Mate
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A Guide to Renting in Sydney by Real Inspect