Vacancy rates drop in Gold Coast

Rental hotspots are often identified by their low vacancy rates. These are basically prime opportunities for investors to introduce new stock to the market and supply housing in an area with excessive demand.

The vacancy rate for rental real estate in Gold Coast is the lowest it has been since 2010 according to figures from SQM research. With an incredibly low offering of available dwellings on the market, Gold Coasters could probably expect an investment surge in the months and years to come. The vacancy rate for October sat at 1.4 per cent according to SQM Research.

The lifestyle offered in the Gold Coast is an obvious draw card those looking for houses to rent, with an established city lifestyle complemented by beautiful beach front living. The high level of demand caused by this interest in one of the Sunshine State's most delectable seaside cities translates into a high yield for potential property investors.

According to SQM Research's latest figures, the implied gross yield for houses in the Gold Coast is trending just below five per cent, while those with units will be looking at over the five per cent mark.

How to capitalise on this demand?

In any hot market there are lot of people vying for the same resources. So how do you make sure you end up with the right rental investment? Firstly, doing your research. This has less to do with going to open inspections and finding the one that feels "just right" and has a lot more to do with crunching the numbers and making a calculated, informed decision.

What should you be looking for in an investment property? Well, it's important to find a property, in your budget, that is close to a lot of amenities. Being near to hospitals, schools, public transport or main traffic arterials can lead too a high demand for rental properties.

If you are unsure of what market indicators you should be watching or would like some 'on the ground' intelligence, talk to a local real estate agent. Not only will they know which areas are offering high yields or which have low vacancy rates, they also have their ears to the ground for the best deals - all the time.

You may get to spend a couple hours a week researching your future property investment, but a local agent is in and out of property all day, every day, and they will have a wealth of knowledge that will make your decision making process easier.