More Australians are renting for longer - and rethinking what “home” means in the process.
Build-to-rent communities are redefining the experience, making renting simpler, more secure, and genuinely lifestyle-led.
Renting isn’t what it used to be (and that’s a good thing)
In Australia, the proportion of long-term private renters has doubled over the past decade. For many, renting is now a lifestyle choice rather than a stepping stone to buying.
Unlike traditional private tenancies, build-to-rent developments offer secure leases, service-driven management, and access to lifestyle amenities that rival — and often surpass — owner-occupied homes.
Local: Residential, Australia’s largest professional renting platform founded in Melbourne, is leading the charge. Each development is designed for modern renters, combining sustainability, connection, and ease.
“Purpose-built, professionally managed renting is already the norm in the US and UK,” says Megan Hondromatidis, General Manager of Marketing and Communications at Local: Residential.
“It removes much of the angst and hassle that often comes with traditional rentals.”
With more people renting long-term, renters are looking for apartments purpose-built for their lifestyle.
Melbourne’s response: Putting renters first
Local: Residential’s buildings in Kensington and Box Hill are setting the tone for a new era of renting.
Every apartment includes whitegoods — from fridges to washing machines and dryers — and fully furnished options are available for those who prefer to move in with less.
The Kensington precinct features sustainably designed studios through to three-bedroom homes, starting from $590 per week, with built-in storage and abundant natural light.
Shared amenities include a full-sized gym, wellness studio, cinema room, creative space, outdoor barbecue areas, a heated lap pool, and private dining room.
“Apartment living doesn’t mean compromising on lifestyle,” says Hondromatidis. “Our shared spaces are used daily by residents — they’ve become an extension of people’s homes.”
She adds that the flexible lease terms attract everyone from students and young professionals to families.
“Some choose shorter six- or nine-month leases, while others love the security of knowing they can stay for years without the hassle of moving.”
Box Hill will add another 425 sustainably designed apartments when it opens in January 2026.
Amenities will include a wellness zone, indoor lap pool, sauna and steam room, private dining areas, outdoor terraces, a mahjong room, work-from-home studios, and a podcast room.
“We’re showing renters that apartment living can align with their values and evolving needs,” Hondromatidis says.
“If you want a sustainable home that’s efficient and cost-conscious, we’ve designed for that.”
Flexible lease terms, pet-friendly apartments, low $1,000 bonds, and streamlined move-ins make Local: Residential developments a far cry from traditional renting.
The homes at Local: Kensington range from sleek studios all the way to family-sized three bedroom apartments.
The 5 renter must-haves defining the new era of renting
1. Stability and ease
Build-to-rent developments prioritise convenience and predictability. Tenants can choose their move-in date, avoiding the stress of paying double rent.
“There’s security in the lease tenure,” Hondromatidis says. “People can lock in for up to five years and not face the constant pressure of house-hunting or the uncertainty of private landlords.”
Residents can also upsize, downsize, or relocate within the same building — flexibility rarely offered in the traditional market.
2. Built-in security and on-site support
Safety and service are top priorities for long-term renters. Each building features secure Bluetooth access, CCTV throughout common areas, and an on-site resident and maintenance team six days a week.
“We’re seeing more women in their 20s and 30s choosing to live solo, valuing both the security and the community aspect,” says Hondromatidis.
Maintenance requests are handled quickly — no more waiting weeks for a private landlord to respond — and renters can enjoy amenities like the gym, co-working studios, and outdoor spaces without leaving home.
3. Lifestyle on your doorstep
From gyms and pools to creative and co-working spaces, build-to-rent living blends home comforts with hotel-style convenience.
“It’s about lifestyle — being able to walk out of your apartment and go straight to the gym or workspace,” Hondromatidis explains.
Regular resident events such as yoga, trivia nights, creative workshops, and social mixers build genuine community connection.
Community and connection is at the heart of the Local: Kensington lifestyle.
4. Pet- and people-friendly living
With more Australians owning pets, Local: Residential takes a forward-thinking approach.
“Everyone loves the people-focused design, but we’ve also got plenty of cats and dogs calling Local home,” Hondromatidis says.
Pet-friendly zones include an outdoor Bark Park and Pet Wash, while designated pet-free areas cater to residents without animals — ensuring harmony for all.
5. A landlord who works with you
Flexibility and collaboration underpin the build-to-rent ethos.
“We want people to enjoy living with us and stay for as long as it suits their needs,” says Hondromatidis.
“Being able to treat an apartment like it’s your own — to paint, hang art, and make it feel personal — makes a real difference.”
Because Local: Residential owns and manages its buildings, it can adapt to residents’ needs over time, ensuring the spaces created remain the ones people truly value.
Residents at Local: Kensington have more flexibility when it comes to personalising their space.
The new benchmark for Australian renting
For today’s long-term renters, build-to-rent represents more than a home — it’s a lifestyle built around stability, security, and connection.
English (US) · 