Guide to renting a home in NZ

Finding a home can be a challenging process, one which we must all go through at some stage. A significant portion of New Zealand's population are home renters, those unable or unwilling to buy a home. We also tend to move around a lot, with a Families Commission report issued in February 2015 finding the highest rates of residential mobility in the western world were right here.

To be honest, choosing to rent in New Zealand at this point in time is a perfectly reasonable choice. With median house prices still climbing - now at over $900,000 in Auckland and over $550,000 nationally, according to QV - buying a first home remains out of reach for some. So what should you be aware of when you're hunting a new rental home?

Finding a house for rent in New Zealand needn't be difficult.

Choosing the right home

Gone are the days when finding a house for rent meant scouring the local newspaper, highlighter pen in hand, and spending hours on the phone chasing up opportunities. It's the 21st century, so it can be as simple as opening your web browser and typing "Dunedin homes for rent" into your search engine.

For a more personal experience however, registering your interest with your local real estate agent is a great way to gain access to a slate of available properties, and forge a bond with property professionals that could last for years.

Gone are the days when finding a house for rent meant scouring the local newspaper.

Have your references in order

Once you've found an ideal house for rent, it's time to lodge an application, much like applying for a job. While it's by no means industry standard, a lot of cautious landlords and property managers will require references (again, like a job interview) from previous landlords to get an idea of your rental history.

It always pays to do everything you can to stay on your landlord's good side. That means paying your rent on time, keeping the property in good order and addressing any issues that might arise promptly. Developing a relationship with a real estate agent or property manager can also pay off here - the better that connection, the less trouble you're likely to have when it comes time to move on.

Just like when you're buying and selling, the New Zealand rental property market can be a competitive place, so it's important to understand the playing field before you begin. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't be afraid to go and speak to a real estate agent about houses for rent in your area.