The past 12 months in property management have brought about significant change, from the continued evolution of rental legislation to the growth of our own team and leadership at Marshall White. These changes have shaped how we work with both rental providers and renters, setting the tone for what lies ahead in 2025–26.
One of the major developments has been the ongoing updates to Victoria’s rental legislation. The removal of end of fixed term lease 90-day notices to vacate and new regulations requiring a minimum 90-day notice for rent increases have added complexity but also reinforced the importance of clear, proactive communication between agents, renters and property owners.
Compliance has also become a bigger priority. Today, every property must meet all minimum rental standards before it can even be advertised for lease. These requirements encompass a wide range of essentials, including secure external locks, fixed and safe heaters in main living areas, adequate insulation, weatherproofing, window coverings for privacy in bedrooms and living spaces, functioning kitchen facilities, working toilets and bathrooms with hot and cold water, and compliant electrical safety features like safety switches and smoke alarms. With more than 14 categories of standards outlined in the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021, our team has worked closely with rental providers to ensure everything is up to code before a property hits the market.
These standards aim to lift the overall quality of rental housing in Victoria. At Marshall White, we continue to invest in training and systems to ensure our properties are compliant and well-maintained, helping rental providers avoid costly penalties and giving renters greater peace of mind.
Internally, this year marks a significant milestone for us. After 21 years of dedicated service, we farewelled our Director of Property Management, Paula Matlock, whose outstanding contribution to Marshall White Property Management has shaped the strong foundation we stand on today. Her retirement, shared in our June blog post, has paved the way for a refreshed leadership model.
We’re pleased to share that Ashlee Verma has taken over as Head of Property Management, supported by a team of experienced senior managers/leaders. Together, this accomplished leadership team is committed to building on Paula’s legacy and continuing to elevate the level of service and support we provide to our clients across Melbourne.
Looking to the year ahead, we expect the rental market to remain tight, with strong interest from high-quality renters. Presentation, pricing, and early compliance will all play a bigger role in shaping leasing outcomes. In this environment, the experience and guidance of a knowledgeable property management team are more valuable than ever.
Whether you are reviewing your current investment strategy or planning for the year ahead, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Want to ensure your property is compliant and positioned for success this financial year? Reach out to your Marshall White Property Manager today.
Image Source: Fabric Project
