Finding quality tenants is the single most important decision a landlord makes. A great tenant pays on time, looks after the property and stays long term. This guide covers how to attract, screen and select the best tenant for your rental property in Australia in 2026.
Where to Advertise Your Rental Property
| Platform | Cost | Reach | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| realestate.com.au | $250 to $450 per listing | Highest in Australia | Maximum exposure |
| domain.com.au | $180 to $380 per listing | Second highest | Urban renters |
| Facebook Marketplace | Free | Strong local reach | Budget properties |
| Flatmates.com.au | Free or $15/week | Share accommodation focused | Room rentals |
Tenant Screening — The Right Process
- Verify identity (100 point check)
- Verify income (last 3 payslips or employment letter)
- Rent-to-income ratio: rent should not exceed 30 to 35% of gross income
- Call previous property managers directly for references
- Tenancy database check (TICA, National Tenancy Database)
Red Flags in Tenant Applications
- Unable to provide payslips or employment letter
- Rent-to-income ratio above 40%
- Previous property manager evasive on reference
- History of frequent moves (3+ properties in 2 years)
- Paying bond and first month cash without a viewing
Manage Your Tenant Search with the Collings Platform
Join the Collings portal free — access landlord tenant management tools
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to find a tenant in Australia?
List on realestate.com.au and domain.com.au simultaneously with professional photos at accurate market rent. Well-presented listings find tenants within 1 to 2 weeks in most markets.
What is a good rent-to-income ratio for tenant screening?
Rent should not exceed 30 to 35% of the tenant’s gross household income. Above 40% significantly increases arrears risk.
Find your next property with Collings
Track suburbs, get matched to on-market and off-market listings, and manage your whole property search in one place. Access the Collings property portal.
