Scott Smith and Michaela Krass are renting a beachside apartment on the Sunshine Coast. Pictured with their dog Feta. Photo: Patrick Woods.
Scott Smith and Michaela Krass have found a unique way to outsmart Queensland’s competitive rental market — living the beachside dream while earning an impressive income from two investment properties.
The couple earns $1,300 a week in rental income from two properties in Brisbane, while paying $650 a week to rent an apartment in popular Alexandra Headlands on the Sunshine Coast.
For Mr Smith, 37, a key account manager in the tech industry, and Ms Krass, 27, an emergency department nurse, the decision to become rentvestors was about lifestyle as much a wealth.
Mr Smith self-manages two investment properties. Photo: Patrick Woods.
“Brisbane has strong long-term growth potential, solid rental demand, and a vibrant economy, making it an attractive investment location — why wear all the costs of buying and selling when I know it will perform well?” Mr Smith said.
The couple had lived in Brisbane for five years but didn’t want to commit to buying on the Sunshine Coast without first understanding the market. Renting allowed them to explore different areas while avoiding the high costs of purchasing.
“We are minutes from the beach with a high-energy puppy, and being able to walk along one of Australia’s favourite beaches every morning is the best way to start the day,” Mr Smith said.
“If we bought here, we would be in the outer suburbs, further away from the beach, and wouldn’t enjoy what we moved here for anywhere near as much.”
Renting has given the couple freedom to explore a new region. Photo: Patrick Woods.
MORE NEWS
Price of crumbling home hits $1.5m-plus in Brisbane
Grim prediction: Aus short 400,000 homes by 2029
Shock income needed to afford the average Aussie rental
Their rentvesting journey began in March 2020, when they bought their first investment property, a townhouse in Herston, Brisbane, for $415,000. It’s now rented out for $720 a week.
In November 2024, they purchased a second property in Springfield Lakes for $708,000, which is rented for $580 a week.
Mr Smith self-manages both properties, ensuring a direct relationship with tenants.
While their flexible renting situation is ideal, securing a rental was challenging.
“The market is tough, supply is low, and demand is high,” Mr Smith said.
“Knowing someone who knows someone comes in very handy. I bought my investment through Lauren Jones Buyers Agency, who was very well-connected and helped find fantastic tenants quickly.”
Mr Smith’s biggest tip for investors is to take time finding great tenants. Photo: Patrick Woods.
Despite their successful investment strategy, they are careful with rent increases.
“A good tenant is hard to find, so unless owning costs increase significantly, we’ll keep rent steady,” Mr Smith said.
But for all its advantages, Mr Smith said rentvesting required careful consideration and planning.
“Do your research, especially on the property you intend to rent out.
“I manage my own properties, but if you use a property manager, be hands-on and understand the guidelines. Speak with an accountant to stay on top of costs.”
He added: “My biggest piece of advice is to put an incredible amount of effort into finding the right tenants, more than you think necessary — it will make your life a lot easier in the long run.”
English (US) · 