Rentvesting | Pros and cons for property investors - NAB

What is rentvesting?

Rentvesting is a strategy where you buy an investment property in one location (often somewhere affordable or with high growth potential) while choosing to rent in a location that caters to your lifestyle needs. This is often seen as an appealing choice for people who prefer living in cities or suburbs where buying can feel out of reach. For example, you might consider buying property in a high growth suburb or in an emerging interstate area while continuing to rent in a vibrant, upmarket urban area with quick and easy access to work, dining and entertainment.

Is rentvesting an easy way to enter the property market?

It really depends on your personal circumstances. Rentvesting can be a more accessible way to break into the property market, especially in places where high prices make home ownership tough. Buying in a suburb or area with lower prices or high rental demand can be a good way to get on the property ladder faster than saving for a deposit for a house in a prime location.

Pros and drawbacks of rentvesting

Pros

Live where you want: Rent where your lifestyle suits you, while investing in locations with stronger growth potential.

Build property wealth: Investing in a high growth area may help you build equity over time, which could be used to sell, refinance or invest further.

Tax deductions: Investment properties may offer tax benefits not available to owner occupiers, such as deductions for loan interest, management fees and depreciation.

Diversify your investments: Rentvesting lets property form part of a broader investment mix, helping spread risk rather than relying on one asset.

Potential rental income: In the right market, rental income may help cover costs and contribute to cash flow.

Drawbacks

Upfront and ongoing costs: You’ll need a deposit and fees, plus ongoing expenses like maintenance, insurance and property management.

Exposure to interest rates: Higher interest rates and living costs can reduce the affordability of this strategy, so careful budgeting is important.

No first home benefits: Rentvestors typically can’t access schemes like the First Home Owner’s Grant or First Home Super Saver Scheme.

Capital gains tax (CGT): Selling an investment property may trigger CGT, which should be factored into long term planning.

Vacancy and management risk: Rental vacancies, tenant issues or poor property management can disrupt cash flow and add time, cost and complexity.

Investing in another state or territory as a rentvestor

Rentvesting gives you the freedom to invest anywhere in Australia. When you widen your search, you’ll have more opportunity to find emerging markets with potential for high returns. That said, you’ll need to keep in mind that different states and territories have their own regulations, taxes and market trends. You’ll also need to be comfortable with the idea of managing your property from afar.

Learn more about buying an investment property that fits your financial goals and lifestyle.

Does rentvesting work for you?

Rentvesting has become increasingly common, particularly among younger buyers priced out of inner city markets or those prioritising flexibility. It often appeals to people who want to start building property wealth without compromising their lifestyle.

Start by assessing if rentvesting fits your financial goals, lifestyle and risk tolerance.

Assess your financial situation

Calculate how much you can comfortably direct towards your investment property, including deposit, property management fees, stamp duty, loan repayments, and maintenance costs. You’ll need to remember that this investment strategy involves paying rent as well as your mortgage repayment, so it’s important to check that everything balances out, so you’re not feeling financially stressed. It’s also crucial that you have an emergency fund set up for unexpected life situations.

Define your investment timeline

It’s worth considering how long you’d need to hold the property for it to make the best financial sense for you. For example, are you looking to build equity over five, seven or even 10 years?

How does rentvesting fit in with your lifestyle?

If you’re open to the flexibility of renting, rentvesting could be a good fit. However, if you’re leaning more towards a sense of permanence in your living space, buying a home to live in can feel more satisfying.

Ready to purchase your investment property?

If you’re looking to invest in property while you rent, talk to our home experts today.

How rentvesting works

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Terms and Conditions

The information contained in this article is intended to be of a general nature only. It has been prepared without taking into account any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, NAB recommends that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances. NAB recommends that you seek independent legal, financial and taxation advice before acting on any information in this article.

Target Market Determinations for these products are available at nab.com.au/TMD.