5 Common Mistakes International Students Make When Renting in Australia (and How to Avoid Them)

Moving to Australia for study is an exciting milestone — new friends, new experiences, and a fresh start in one of the world’s most liveable countries. But when it comes to renting your first home away from home, it can also feel a little overwhelming.

Between unfamiliar laws, confusing paperwork, and fast-moving rental markets, it’s easy to make mistakes that could cost you time, money, or peace of mind. At Navvia, we’ve seen many students make the same avoidable errors — so we’ve put together this guide to help you rent smarter, safer, and with confidence.

⚠️ Mistake 1: Signing a lease without inspecting the property

In today’s digital world, listings often look perfect online — until you move in and realise the “spacious bedroom” barely fits a desk, or the “fully furnished” apartment has a broken fridge.

Many international students rush to secure accommodation before arriving in Australia, which makes them vulnerable to misleading ads or rental scams.

✅ How to avoid it:
Always try to inspect the property in person — or if you’re overseas, ask for a virtual inspection via video call. Navvia offers professional video inspections and detailed walk-throughs, so you can see exactly what you’re signing up for before committing.

📜 Mistake 2: Not understanding the lease agreement

Australian tenancy laws can be confusing at first. Terms like bond, fixed-term lease, notice period, and condition report might not exist in your home country. Some students sign without reading carefully, only to discover strict break fees or unexpected obligations later on.

✅ How to avoid it:
Take the time to read your lease agreement and ask questions. Understand:

• How much bond is required (usually four weeks’ rent).

• How long the lease runs (6 or 12 months).

• Who is responsible for bills and maintenance.
  If you’re unsure, seek advice — Navvia helps explain key clauses and makes sure you know your rights and responsibilities before signing.

💰 Mistake 3: Forgetting to plan a full budget

Many students calculate rent but forget about ongoing costs — utilities, internet, transport, and groceries can quickly add up. Some even struggle in their first few months because they underestimate how much living expenses really are in cities like Melbourne or Sydney.

✅ How to avoid it:
Create a simple monthly budget before you move. List your fixed costs (rent, bills) and flexible costs (food, travel, entertainment). Navvia provides a free budgeting template to help you plan effectively, so you’re not caught off guard once you arrive.

🚫 Mistake 4: Falling for rental scams

Unfortunately, fake agents and fraudulent listings do exist — especially online. Scammers often post attractive properties at below-market prices and request deposits before any inspection. Once the money is sent, they disappear.

✅ How to avoid it:
Be cautious if:

• The rent is too good to be true.

• You’re asked to pay before inspection.

• Communication feels rushed or unprofessional.
  Always verify the identity of the landlord or agent. Navvia ensures all listings are legitimate, verified, and handled securely, giving you complete peace of mind.

💬 Mistake 5: Poor communication with landlords or agents

Your relationship with your landlord or agent matters. Many students feel nervous or unsure about how to communicate, which can lead to misunderstandings — especially around repairs, rent payments, or vacating notice periods.

✅ How to avoid it:
Be polite, clear, and proactive. Keep all communication in writing when possible. Navvia provides ready-to-use message templates to help you communicate professionally and confidently, whether you’re applying for a property or following up on maintenance.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Renting in a new country doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll not only save money but also create a smoother and more enjoyable experience settling into your new home.

At Navvia, we specialise in helping international students rent safely and confidently — from the very first consultation to the day you move in. Whether you need inspection support, application guidance, or local knowledge, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Ready to find your next home in Australia?