Investor alert: Sydney vacancy rates at "crisis levels"

The Real Estate Institute of New South Wales has warned that vacancy rates in Sydney are now at a crisis low levels, with the number of properties for rent dropping 0.3% to 1.4% in the March 2014 Vacancy Rate Survey.

This is a figure not seen broadly since November 2011, according to REINSW president Malcolm Gunning.

“Sydney is going backwards in regard to properties available for rent. Something must be done to ensure that there is a greater level of choice for those seeking to secure a rental property in Australia’s biggest city,” said Gunning.

Inner Sydney vacancy rates declined by 0.2%, to 1.3%, while the middle and outer suburbs dropped 0.4% and 0.1% to 1.6% and 1.5% respectively.

Again, it appears all eyes are on new Premier, Mike Baird, as to how property will be treated.

“We look with interest to the direction new Premier Mike Baird will take in regard to property. His support is essential to ensure that the best and brightest remain in NSW. This can only happen if he identifies the inequities of the current planning system as well as lack of affordable housing and incentives for first home buyers,” Gunning continued.

Newcastle, however, increased by 0.1%, to 2.5%, while the Hunter also stayed relatively flat with a 0.1% decrease to 3.1%. Wollongong was up 0.7% to 2.3%, with the whole of the Illawarra then placed at 2.1% up from 1.7%.

The Mid-North Coast’s vacancy rate was recorded as the lowest outside Sydney metro, at 1.4%, a 0.3% tightening, while Coffs Harbour has the highest availability at 3.8%, up from 3%.