27/10/2026
“What are the neighbours like?”
It’s a question prospective tenants are asking more often in today’s rental market.
We were recently asked to visit a Wellington property that had been vacant for several months. It was managed by another company, the rent had already been reduced and, on paper, it should have been attracting interest.
One issue stood out.
Prospective tenants had to pass a neighbouring rental to reach the vacant home, and a significant amount of rubbish and other belongings was spread across its frontage.
Both properties belonged to the same owner and were managed by the same company. Although the rubbish did not belong to the vacant home, prospective tenants were unlikely to separate the two. They would form an impression of the overall living environment before stepping through the door.
In a market where tenants have more choice, neighbouring properties and shared areas can influence whether someone applies.
When rentals are closely connected, regular inspections and clear communication about rubbish, grounds and shared spaces are important. The condition of one tenancy can directly affect the appeal and rental performance of another.
Reducing the rent will not always solve a presentation or management problem.
