Renting a home – or letting one out – used to be simpler. The rental landscape has become far more dynamic, shaped by tech, lifestyle shifts, and evolving expectations on both sides of the lease.
“It’s not just about four walls and a roof anymore,” says Jacqui Savage, National Rentals Manager at Rawson Property Group. “People want spaces that fit how they live, and how they live is changing fast.”
So, what does that mean in practice? Whether you’re a landlord looking to maximise returns or a tenant hunting for the perfect space, here’s what you need to know to stay ahead.
Tips for Landlords
Start with smarter rentals
Understanding tenant trends isn’t just helpful. It’s essential. Gone are the days of simply listing a property and waiting for applications to roll in. Today’s market demands more thought, more strategy, and a clear understanding of what modern renters actually want.
“Remote work is a big driver,” says Jacqui Savage, National Rentals Manager at Rawson Property Group. “People are looking for rentals with space to work from home and, above all, excellent internet. Fibre-ready properties are right at the top of the list.”
Connectivity is just the beginning, though. Tenants are also prioritising sustainability, security, and lifestyle-friendly features.
“Smart home tech, solar panels, and energy-efficient appliances – these aren’t luxury features anymore,” Savage adds. “They’re part of the checklist for the modern tenant.”
And it’s not just about what’s in the home, either – how it’s marketed matters, too. To attract the right tenants, landlords need to highlight the features that matter most and frame the property in a way that speaks to their ideal renter.
How Rawson Rentals helps: Rawson’s rental experts help landlords tailor both their properties and their listings for maximum impact. From smart pricing and marketing advice to practical upgrade suggestions, we help ensure your property reaches the right tenants, and gets the results you want.
Focus on tenant retention
Attracting quality tenants is only half the battle. Keeping them? That’s where the long-term value lies.
“Landlords often underestimate how important tenant experience is,” says Savage. “It’s things like being responsive, staying on top of maintenance, and making sure lease agreements are clear and fair.”
When tenants feel looked after, they’re more likely to renew – and that means fewer vacancies, less admin, and more stable income for landlords.
How Rawson Rentals helps: From proactive maintenance coordination to full lease management, Rawson Rentals offers end-to-end support designed to reduce stress and improve tenant retention. They also ensure landlords stay compliant with the latest rental regulations.
Tips for Tenants
How to choose the right rental
For tenants, the first step to a great rental experience is knowing what you’re looking for.
“Start with your budget,” says Savage. “Be realistic. It’s not just about the monthly rent. Remember to factor in utilities, transport, and lifestyle expenses too.”
Then, think about what kind of space suits your day-to-day life. Proximity to work or school, access to public transport, and nearby shops or green spaces can make a big difference.
Also consider lifestyle features that matter to you – whether that’s pet-friendly policies, safe parking, or a private outdoor area.
How Rawson Rentals Helps: With a wide selection of properties across different price points and neighbourhoods, Rawson Rentals helps tenants match their wish list to the right home. Whether you’re after a compact city pad or a family-friendly house in the suburbs, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Know your rights
Finding the right property is important, but so is knowing what you're signing up for.
“Tenants in 2025 have strong legal protections,” says Savage. “But too many still enter lease agreements without fully understanding their rights and responsibilities.”
Make sure your lease clearly outlines key terms like rental amount, deposit conditions, notice periods, and who’s responsible for maintenance and repairs. When it comes to your deposit, it must be handled in a trust account and returned within the legal timeframe, provided there’s no damage or outstanding rent.
How Rawson Rentals helps: Rawson guides tenants through the leasing process with clarity and care. Our teams ensure contracts are fair and transparent, deposit handling is fully compliant with the law, and support is available if anything goes wrong during your lease.
What’s in store for the rental market?
As the rental market continues to evolve, one thing is clear: flexibility is here to stay.
“People are living and working differently, and that’s going to keep shaping rental trends in 2025 and beyond,” says Savage. “We’re seeing more demand for adaptable spaces, energy-efficient homes, and smart tech that makes everyday life easier.”
For landlords, that means future-proofing your properties – whether through simple upgrades, smarter marketing, or embracing professional management. For tenants, it’s about staying informed, asking the right questions, and choosing rental partners who prioritise transparency and support.
The bottom line? Whether you’re signing a lease or listing your property, being proactive – and choosing the right people to guide you – can make all the difference.
Why so many South Africans choose Rawson Rentals
Whether you’re listing your investment or looking for a new place to call home, Rawson Rentals makes the process simpler, smarter, and more secure.
For Landlords:
- Market-driven pricing and expert valuations
- Professional tenant vetting and placement
- Full-service property management
- Stress-free lease renewals and legal compliance
For Tenants:
- A wide variety of quality rental homes
- Transparent lease agreements
- Reliable maintenance and support
- Fair deposit handling and legal peace of mind
