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Media release
04 January 2010
New research reveals upwardly mobile renters search for property on the go
With January being the busiest time of the year to search for a rental property, new research reveals many house
hunters are now using their mobile phones to shortlist and inspect properties for rent while on the go.
Based on new data, realestate.com.au today revealed that almost half (44 per cent)
(1)
of property searches to its
popular mobile site are for rental enquires.
Spokesperson for realestate.com.au Peter Wright indicated today’s mobile technology means house hunters now
have the future of their property needs in the palm of their hands – especially those who are time poor.
“The new year brings many changes in peoples’ lives – a change in career, relocating to pursue university study or
a sea change, means many house hunters need to secure rental accommodation fast,” said Peter.
“January is typically the busiest time of the year for the real estate sector and also the busiest time of the year for
traffic to our site at realestate.com.au,” he said.
“The
heightened level of search for accommodation coupled with low vacancy rates means there is often more
competition in securing a rental property in during this time,” said Peter.
“Interestingly, traffic to our mobile website peaks on a Saturday between 10 and 11am – a popular time and when
house hunters are out in full force at open for inspections,” he said.
Rental tips to ensure you are not left in the lurch when looking for a house to rent:
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Sign up for e-alerts so you are in the know with new rental listings coming onto the market
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Develop a good rapport with your local real estate agent in advance to ensure you are kept top of mind for
when a property comes up
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Approach your property search with an open mind, look for surrounding suburbs for cheaper options
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After inspecting a property, apply online for speed and immediacy to ensure your application is considered
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Follow up with the agent to ensure they have received your application and be flexible about moving in
dates
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Have your referees briefed in advance so you are one step ahead of the competition
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First impressions count so ensure you are well dressed when attending open for inspections
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If you are renting for the first time, ask your guardian or parent to come with you
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Try and rent a property with gas heating and cooking appliances, as electricity can often be expensive
For more information or for an interview contact:
Zoyee Kartalis, Public Relations Manager, Mob: 0428 364
090, email: zoyee.kartalis@realestate.com.au
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Notes to editors:
(1)
44 per cent of users search for properties for rent via realestate.com.au’s mobile website, compared to
just 26 per cent of users who visit the mail site – realestate.com.au
About the REA Group
The REA Group, headquartered in Melbourne, operates Australia’s most popular real estate websites and similar
websites around the world. Its sites receive more than 8,160,045 million unique visitors per month
(Nielsen/NetRatings, Omniture, Google Analytics, November 2009. The Group had revenues of AUD$156m in FY
2008 and is profitable. REA Group Limited is a listed company on the Australian Securities Exchange (REA), and
operates as an independent entity.
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