Local: Kensington, a brand-new build-to-rent development in Melbourne's inner north, offers a fresh alternative to traditional renting.
Finding the perfect rental home is about more than just four walls – it’s about security, convenience, and a lifestyle that suits modern renters.
Build-to-rent is a new term you’ve probably seen around, but what does it mean? Exactly what it says, they are homes built just for renters, with no ownership commitments, body corporates, or third-party real estate agents between you and the landlord.
Local: Kensington, the first Melbourne project by BTR platform and certified B Corp Local: Residential, combines long-term lease stability with amenities and and shared spaces that you’ll actually want to use, in train stops from Melbourne’s CBD, with studios and one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments priced from just $589 per week.
Local: Kensington’s well-connected location opens up the suburb to renters looking for secure, high-quality apartments.
Local also has sites in Box Hill, South Melbourne and Southbank, but Co-CEO Matthew Berg said there’s something special about the Kensington location, which mixes heritage neighbourhood charm and city proximity, and is a suburb which previously offered little in the way of apartment living.
“We fell in love with the area,” Mr. Berg said.
“Kensington Village has this amazing sense of community, with beautiful old red-brick train stations, great cafes, and a bohemian-meets-industrial vibe.
"It’s two stops to the city, surrounded by great parks and is right near the hospital precinct and major universities – it’s a location that has everything.”
A new way to rent in Melbourne
Unlike conventional rental properties, Local: Kensington is designed specifically for renters.
The build-to-rent model eliminates the landlord and property manager, offers flexible leasing terms, and gives the tenants the ability to personalise their space.
“What we offer is flexibility and security at the same time," explained Mr. Berg.
Many renters have faced the instability of being asked to move due to owners selling or moving back in.
"Here, residents can live like they own it – with the freedom to personalise their space like paint the walls, but without the risks of traditional renting."
Residents at Local: Kensington can make their apartments their own personalised spaces.
Competitive pricing and exclusive move-in offers
Value for money was an important consideration for the team at Local: Kensington, with apartments starting at $549 per week and including whitegoods and the option to connect to built-in utility providers that offer 100% renewable power and super-fast Wi-Fi, so it’s all ready to go from day one.
To make the move even more appealing, new tenants who apply and move in before 31 March can take advantage of an exclusive rent-free promotion for three months.
This not only entices renters to move in but also benefits those who need more flexibility with their move-in dates.
“We allow prospective residents to secure their apartment with just a $1,000 bond, even if they don’t plan to move for another few months.
"It removes the stress of last-minute leasing decisions, or the pressure to lock in a housemate, something the private rental market just can’t offer,” explained Mr. Berg.
The ability to secure an apartment in advance makes the moving-in process at Local less stressful.
A standout feature of Local: Kensington is its well-designed studio apartments, filling a gap in Melbourne’s rental market.
Traditionally, renters have had limited options between small student accommodation and larger one-bedroom apartments.
Local: Kensington’s 40-square-metre studios offer a smart, affordable alternative, proving especially popular with young professionals and those moving out of share houses for the first time.
“These studios have been incredibly popular,” said Mr. Berg.
“They provide a great entry point for renters who want their own space but still enjoy the social and lifestyle benefits of a build-to-rent community.
"With a full-size kitchen, white goods, and dedicated living areas, they offer everything you need in a smart, efficient design.”
Lifestyle-focused amenities designed for connection
Beyond the apartments themselves, Local: Kensington is about fostering a vibrant community.
Residents have access to a suite of high-end amenities, all thoughtfully positioned on the ground floor to encourage social interaction.
“When someone comes home from work, they naturally pass through the amenity spaces – whether it’s the gym, the games room, or the resident lounge, which creates organic opportunities to connect,” said Mr. Berg.
Outdoor spaces and communal amenities help foster genuine connections between Local residents.
Local: Kensington offers half an acre of communal facilities, including a resort-style outdoor heated pool, fully equipped gym, wellness space, private dining areas, private co-working spaces, a creative studio, a big-screen entertainment room, and even a pet-friendly dog wash, to name a few.
“For many residents, their apartment is just one part of their living experience," explained Mr. Berg.
"We’ve seen renters who originally planned to take a two-bedroom apartment realise they don’t need the extra space because they can use the co-working areas and boardroom areas or book a private dining space for hosting friends, so they are able to save money and take on a one-bedroom or a studio instead."
A seamless renting experience
With fully furnished options available (featuring sustainable, award-winning Koala furniture), the ability to sign up for utilities and Wi-Fi on the spot, and a seamless leasing process, the build-to-rent development is designed for renters who want a stress-free experience.
“People are looking for hyper-convenience,” said Mr. Berg.
“They want to move in with minimal fuss, enjoy a beautifully designed home, and have access to amenities that support their lifestyle.
“That’s exactly what we’ve built here.”
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