Market Comment - January 2026

We hope you’ve had a relaxing break and a great start to 2026. We’re now back on deck and have recently reviewed the latest Landlords and Renters Pulse Surveys (October 2025), which closely reflect what we’re seeing across the Rentworks portfolio here in Christchurch.

The key takeaway is that the rental market has settled into a more balanced, predictable phase. After several years of change, things are calmer — and in a market like this, the quality of management makes a real difference.

Stability is Now the Priority

Across the market, landlords are increasingly focused on reliable, steady income rather than chasing short-term gains.

That’s reflected in:

• Smaller and less frequent rent increases

• More owners choosing to hold rents steady

• A clear emphasis on retaining good tenants

This aligns closely with how we manage properties at Rentworks. Correct rent positioning, sensible advice, and a focus on tenant longevity continue to deliver stronger outcomes over time.

Low Arrears Reflect Strong Systems

Rental arrears remain low and stable, which mirrors what we see day-to-day. Where issues do arise, they’re typically identified early and resolved through clear, structured communication.

This doesn’t happen by chance. Proactive monitoring, firm but fair follow-up, and clear expectations are what prevent small issues from becoming bigger ones.

Rent Restraint is a Deliberate Strategy

Fewer landlords are increasing rents, and fewer still are planning increases in the near term. In many cases, rents are already at market and owners are choosing stability over unnecessary change.

At the same time, tenants are reporting fewer rent increases and greater acceptance of current rent levels — reinforcing that well-judged rent decisions reduce friction and turnover.

This is where experienced advice matters most. We guide owners on when not to increase rent just as carefully as when an adjustment is warranted.

Professional Management Shows its Value

Both landlords and tenants consistently point to the same factors that make tenancies work well:

• Clear communication

• Prompt maintenance

• Professional handling of issues

  
  

In quieter markets, poor management becomes more visible. Good management, on the other hand, often goes unnoticed because things simply run smoothly — which is exactly the outcome we aim for.

Pets Are Now Part of the Rental Landscape

Pets are increasingly common in rental properties, especially given the new legislation. Managing this properly requires clear conditions, good documentation, and realistic expectations — all of which protect the property while meeting tenant demand.

Our View at Rentworks

The current rental market rewards experience, consistency, and good decision-making.

Our role is to remove the noise from property ownership — keeping you compliant, protecting your income, and ensuring your property is well looked after without unnecessary stress.

If you’d like to talk through how this applies to your property specifically, we’re always happy to help.