Raine and Horne principal Travis Schumacher said " With rental prices poised to increase this is a great time to rent and an even better time to buy.

The average rental price has dropped around seven per cent in the last 12 months, according to recent Australian Property Institute statistics. The Mossman average has dropped by 6.3 per cent to $295 per week and Port Douglas has dropped 7.1 per cent to an average of $325 per week .LJ Hooker property manager Kylie Samson said the figures are on par with their rental market history. “There has only been a slight drop, not a major drop in prices,” she said. “At the moment you can get a really nice property for really nice value, like a two bedroom townhouse for $290 and there are a couple of high-end properties now available. “It’s supply and demand - owners are meeting the rental market and getting their property rented.”

Raine and Horne principal Travis Schumacher said owners are having to be more savvy with the price to fill their properties. “It’s the nature of lack of employment in the area at the moment than what it used to be,” he said. “The figures will get better with employment as long as we can fi nd employment around here those rental figures will get stronger. “But it won’t start picking up until then.” Both real estate agents encourage people looking to rent to follow simple steps to ensure they are getting value for money. “You should look out for the cleanliness and general upkeep of the property,” Ms Samson said. For owners looking to join the rental market,

Mr Schumacher said first impressions count. “You can always rent your house out but as long as you’re prepared to meet the market,” Mr Schumacher said. “It is also about the presentation of the place, making sure the place is presented the best it can be.” clean, fresh, tidy garden.

 Source Port Douglas & Mossman Gazette