Box Hill rentals: Top tips on how to get your dream place

It’s booming with housing options and turning into a mini CBD in the east and we have the expert tips on how to get yourself a great rental in Box Hill.

Box Hill is booming with a surge in apartment buildings and other living opportunities. File picture – Nearmap.

Lots of documentation and references, not being pushy and having a steady income are the keys to getting ahead in the Box Hill rental market, according to leading agents.

Buxton Real Estate Box Hill director Jim Chen has revealed his top tips for renters looking to move to Box Hill, which is continuing to grow with high-rise housing options.

Mr Chen said Box Hill’s rental market was “more relaxed” compared with the same time last year and prices had dropped by about 10 per cent.

“Most vendors are very reasonable, they’re not looking for high returns, just stable tenants,” he said.

“As long as you have constant income, can afford the rent, and keep it in good condition it should be easy to get a rental.

“That’s what the landlord will look at first … to show you can take care of the property and pay on time every month.

Mr Chen said vendors generally felt more reassured with families over solo applicants and couples, as they felt more confident they could look after the property.

But he said younger renters shouldn’t be deterred, and they could find an apartment or townhouse in the suburb if they could afford between $400 and $500 per week.

“Apartments are really good value, we have noticed the prices have dropped a lot and there’s lots of supply as well,” Mr Chen said.

Box Hill has a broad range of apartment developments including Spectrum which opened on Harrow St in 2018. File picture.

An artist’s impression of the Tempo apartments development in Box Hill. File picture.

Meanwhile, another agent believes renters will find better value if they are happy to not have all the amenities right on their doorstep.

McGrath Box Hill director Ellie Gong said first homebuyer and rental demand had remained steady despite the impact of Covid-19.

She said those looking to move to the suburb could find cheaper options away from its CBD area, outside of school zones and away from Box Hill Hospital, with rentals averaging between $250-$300 per week.

“The closer to the facilities, the more you’re going to pay,” Ms Gong said.

Fletchers Box Hill spokeswoman Kristy Sanbrook said renters could get two or three-bedroom apartments in the suburb for $360-$485 per week.

Ms Sanbrook said Box Hill was “a great and up coming little city” and provided a list of key tips for those looking to rent in the suburb.

TOP BOX HILL RENTAL TIPS

– Complete an application promptly with as much detailed information as you can including recent rental or sale history and your employment, supported by written references.

– If you are self-employed, have your accountant provide a letter to verify your capacity to meet the required rental commitment

– Call the agent to introduce yourself and ask that they let you know if any further supporting information is required before your application is submitted.

– If you have just sold a home, ask your selling agent to provide a written reference for you.

– Don’t be pushy, be yourself

– Have your bond and your first month’s rent ready to go

– Check daily for new rental properties going online