Renters across Australia are doing everything they can just to secure a place to live, as rising rents and a shortage of available homes continue to create real challenges in today’s market.

At Town & Country Merrylands, we’ve seen firsthand how intense the competition has become—lines at inspections, and families having to settle for less than ideal homes and pay more then they budgeted just to secure a lease.

The real issue is simple: high demand, not enough supply. And this has put tenants under a lot of pressure. Many are rushing to submit applications as quickly as possible—sometimes even offering extra advanced rent where allowed—just to get noticed by landlords.

The median rents rose by 5% in the March 2025 quarter compared to the same time last year. That’s pushing a lot of families to the edge, especially in NSW where affordability is now at its lowest level .

As a property experts , We always tell renters: make a good impression at the inspection, and if you love the home—submit your application immediately. A strong, well-prepared application, including a short cover letter explaining your situation, can really help you stand out.

We understand how stressful this market is—especially for larger families and new arrivals. At Town & Country, we’re here to support our local community, and we’ll do our best to match renters with the right property.

For landlords, this is a good time to secure strong, long-term tenants. And for tenants, now more than ever, preparation and timing are key.

If you’re struggling or need advice, we’re always here to help.