Research Hub
Vacancy Rates
The vacancy rate shows what share of rental properties in an area sit empty. It is a useful gauge of the balance between tenant demand and rental supply.
What the rate signals
A low vacancy rate suggests strong tenant demand relative to the number of rentals available, which can support steady rents and shorter periods without a tenant. A high vacancy rate points to more competition among landlords for tenants.
Like all single metrics, it is most useful in context — as part of a picture that includes rents, supply of new dwellings, and local employment.
Reading it carefully
Vacancy rates can move for reasons that have nothing to do with long-term fundamentals, such as seasonal patterns or a temporary wave of new completions. Look at the trend over time rather than one snapshot.
Where to get current figures
Because vacancy data shifts month to month, we focus on interpretation here and share the latest figures for your target areas on your discovery call.
Related reading
- Property manager introductions — minimising vacancy in your own property.
- Research mistakes — the rental data errors investors make.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as a tight rental market?
Analysts often describe very low vacancy as a tight market favouring landlords, but the right benchmark varies by location and time. We can share current figures on your call.
Does a low vacancy rate guarantee rent growth?
It can support it, but rents also depend on incomes, supply, and local conditions. Treat vacancy as one signal among several.