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While enquiry has been consistently strong in late spring, Ms Stow says the real surge traditionally begins after New Year. “We expect to see demand increase in January as relocations are in full swing. Families want to settle before the new school year starts and enjoy the later part of summer by the coast,” she said.
Many of these leases are facilitated by employers, sporting organisations and relocation services, often resulting in premium homes being leased before they even reach the open market. “Companies and sporting clubs work with relocation officers, and over the years we’ve partnered with the same organisations to assist with their moves. They always reach out as soon as we have something special coming up. Many of these homes lease off-market.”
Lifestyle remains the defining feature of demand, particularly as summer builds. “Waterfront locations and pools are the most in-demand features,” Ms Stow says. “A summer lifestyle by the coast; this is what tenants want.”
Furnished options, contemporary finishes and proximity to both the CBD and vibrant coastal high streets are also key drawcards. The challenge, she says, is supply. “There’s a shortage of real lifestyle homes. Modern, waterfront properties with swimming pools are the most requested and the lowest-supply product in the market.”
One current example of the type of property executive renters are competing for is a premium coastal home available for lease through Ray White Semaphore. With its contemporary design, lifestyle amenities and desirable position in Adelaide’s West, it reflects exactly what corporate clients, relocating families and high-income professionals are seeking during the summer leasing season. Homes of this calibre often attract strong enquiry quickly, with many being leased off-market if relocation officers or returning clients are waiting for the right fit.
For investors considering entering the executive rental space, Sherrie Stow emphasises the importance of strategy and timing. “Plan ahead - executive tenants represent around 10 per cent of the total market, so you need to launch 6-8 weeks before your ideal lease date,” she says.
She recommends approaching the campaign with the same care as a high-quality sales listing. “A comprehensive marketing strategy is essential: great photos, a floorplan, video tours and a social media strategy all help attract high-calibre tenants.”
While short-stay and Airbnb options can offer higher gross returns, Stow notes that they also carry drawbacks. “Returns are definitely higher in the short-term space; however, vacancy periods can be longer, and turnover is higher,” she says. “We’ve found many landlords see strong value in 3-12 month executive leases, especially furnished options, as an excellent alternative to Airbnb.”
As Adelaide’s coastline continues to flourish and tenants prioritise lifestyle more than ever, the western suburbs have firmly established themselves as a prime destination for executive renters. Supply remains tight, demand continues to grow, and the competition for standout homes is only accelerating. As Ms Stow puts it, “The demand is there, and the right homes are being leased faster than ever.”
