Do you own a property that you rent out on a short-term basis? University of Canberra researchers are keen to chat with you as part of a nation-wide survey to provide some clarity in the public debate on short-term rentals (STR) and housing affordability.
Study Lead Professor Naomi Dale from the university’s Faculty of Business, Government and Law says the research aims to challenge common assumptions and provide fresh insights into the ongoing debate about STR’s impact on housing supply and affordability in Australia.
“STR owners often decide against the option to offer long-term rent due to poor tenant experiences, poor care and maintenance, and loss of control of their property,” Professor Dale says.
“They are more emotionally invested in their property – they use it for family holidays, have inherited it, or plan future personal use, creating a strong connection to the property and local area and community.”
The researchers are calling for owners of properties currently being offered as short term rentals across Australia to complete a short, anonymous, online survey about their decisions to opt for short-term or long-term leases, and what factors influenced those decisions.
The survey results will be used to better understand homeowner preferences, how restrictions on the number of nights a property can be rented short-term affect property investors’ buying behaviours, how the implementation of other restrictions might affect decision-making, and how higher rates and duties on non-owner-occupied properties impact purchasing trends.
The findings are expected to form a vital, evidence-based resource for policymakers, property investors, and the general public, offering data-driven insights to navigate the complex landscape of rental markets.
The survey is available from the University of Canberra website.