Australian renters are contending with unprecedented challenges, including severe supply shortages, soaring prices, outdated and substandard property quality, and indecisive landlords exacerbated by volatile interest rate changes.
However, many see the build-to-rent model as a solution to these problems, finally offering a rental experience free from uncertainty.
We've spoken with experts at HOME Docklands to understand exactly what renters can expect from purpose-built rental accommodation:
1. Tackling supply shortages and rising prices
Renters struggle with limited availability and increasing costs. PropTrack data reveals that in August, Melbourne rental vacancies were just 1.65%, and rental costs for units rose by 5.8% in September from the previous year.
The build-to-rent model increases the availability of high-quality rental properties for those who rent by choice, helping to alleviate supply shortages and manage rising prices.
Renters are looking for more when it comes to the traditional offering.
2. Offering flexibility and convenience
For a variety of reasons, many need the freedom to relocate easily for career changes or lifestyle preferences without the hassle of selling a property.
Renting provides this flexibility, and HOME’s model enhances it with lease options ranging from 6 months to 6 years, allowing renters to choose a duration that suits their plans.
3. Side stepping the one-size-fits all investment approach
While many Aussies seem obsessed with homeownership as the only path to financial security, it's not necessarily everyone's cup of tea.
Not to mention homeownership involves ongoing costs and responsibilities which are often glossed over, such as maintenance and taxes. These can be significant, and in some cases, may not provide a return on investment.
Renting sidesteps these issues, allowing residents to decide for themselves how to invest their savings.
HOME Docklands is proof that renters can enjoy stability and flexibility.
4. Ensuring higher quality homes and no maintenance
Traditional rental properties often suffer from poor maintenance and quality.
Landlords may be slow to respond to issues or decide they don't think it's financially prudent to invest in the comfort, efficiency and security of their property.
HOME Docklands properties are purpose-built for renting, prioritising long-term resident comfort, security and wellbeing with high maintenance standards.
5. Enhanced tenant security
Traditional renters often face uncertainty with landlords who may decide to sell or change terms unexpectedly.
This can cause significant stress, especially if residents suddenly need to find a new home or deal with unexpected rent increases and altered lease conditions.
HOME is both landlord and manager, with an onsite team focussed on creating stable, predictable rental environments, offering residents peace of mind and security.
Residents can enjoy a pick-me-up at the onsite café in the HOME Docklands building.
6. Premium amenities and a sense of community
In Australia, most traditional rental properties offer little beyond basic living spaces, with minimal amenities that enhance lifestyle and comfort.
Residents often miss out on easy access to facilities such as wellness centres, gyms, co-working spaces, and communal areas that can foster social interaction and a sense of belonging.
Build-to-rent developments like HOME Docklands offer wellness facilities, co-working spaces, and a curated calendar of lively community events, fostering a more engaging and connected living experience.
With incredible amenities on offer, residents can enjoy great health and wellbeing from HOME.
HOME Docklands offers Melbourne renters a new path forward
HOME Docklands is an asset class-leading example of the build-to-rent model, providing a range of exclusive features specifically designed to give residents a drastically-improved renting experience.
With 676 apartments across two 30 and 31-storey towers the homes were designed in collaboration with Cox Architecture. They range from studios through to three bedrooms and feature open-plan living, study nooks, and plenty of storage.
With everything you need to get the most out of life, work and everything in between residents won't ever need to dread dealing with the rental market again, explains Christian Grahame, head of HOME.
“At HOME Docklands we offer a unique lifestyle offering designed specifically for renters,” he says.“ Residents enjoy security and convenience with leases available from 6 months to 6 years.”
Instead of being at the mercy of a landlord who might sell if interest rates change, or a property manager who is slow to respond, residents benefit from the security of purpose-built accommodation, with management that genuinely prioritises their needs, Grahame explains.
He says the security offered by the model is appealing to people who are rent-vesting, are building wealth outside of property, or because they are in Melbourne for a fixed period, perhaps for work.
“Longer-term renting can give people who choose to rent much more security but also flexibility, as they can easily relocate when they need to without the costs and hassles of selling a property,” he says.
Finally, renters can get used to high quality, convenient and comfortable homes.
Here's what residents can enjoy at HOME Docklands
1. Maintenance-free living
- Brand new, hotel-style living with generous natural light and fantastic views on offer.
- A variety of apartment options from studios to three bedrooms.
2. Wellness and recreation
- A 25m pool, infrared saunas, steam rooms, and a spin and Pilates studio.
- Bookable private dining room and a communal lounge for socialising.
3. Co-working spaces
- Stunning facilities with harbour views with quiet working cubicles, bookable meeting rooms, and a podcast studio.
4. Superior life admin support
- Hotel-style concierge services, including resident services support available at the HOME lobby, parcel collection, dry cleaning, pet grooming, and furniture assembly.
5. Community events program
- A curated calendar of activities such as cooking classes, art appreciation talks, movie nights, and neighbourhood walks to local bars or galleries.
HOME Docklands redefines renting with features like co-working spaces.
Award-Winning Developments
HOME Docklands builds on the success of its peers:
- HOME Richmond: Won the 2024 Best Amenity category – Australian Apartment Advocacy (VIC) awards.
- HOME Southbank: Finalist in the 2024 Pioneering Award category – Australian Apartment Advocacy (VIC) awards.
Residents can feel assured by HOME Docklands' award-winning track record, which highlights their commitment to creating and maintaining exceptional living experiences.
Recognised for excellence in amenities and innovative approaches, HOME Docklands is consistently setting new standards in rentals. This proven success ensures that residents can trust in the quality and reliability of their living environment.
Grahame adds, "we offer a great sense of community, safety, and prime locations with the added benefit of having HOME as a landlord."
Residents can access amenities that improve their health and wellbeing.
Discover HOME Docklands
For anyone interested in experiencing the benefits of build-to-rent living at HOME Docklands, tours are available, and various apartment options can be explored.
Applications can be submitted online at your own pace. Starting prices include:
- Studio – $585.00
- 1 bed – $655.00
- 2 bed – $785.00
- 3 bed – $1,085.00
All apartments include access to wellness, social, and co-working spaces, making HOME Docklands an exceptional choice for modern renters.
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