Following our recent articles on dual living homes and how smart design can drive stronger returns, we spoke with Sophie Abela, one of our trusted local partners and Managing Director at Valley Estate Agents in Maitland, to bring you real-time insights from the ground in the NSW Hunter Region.
With strong population growth, increasing infrastructure investment, and ongoing affordability compared to metro areas, the Hunter continues to outperform on many investment fundamentals—including rental yields. And according to CoreLogic’s Best of the Best 2024 report, Regional NSW is leading the charge, with yields ranging from 6.5% to 8.9%—nearly double those in Greater Sydney’s top suburbs.
Strong Demand, Low Vacancy
Sophie confirms that rental demand across the Hunter Region remains incredibly strong—especially in Maitland and surrounding growth areas.
“We’re seeing consistently low vacancy rates and high enquiry levels on new rental listings, particularly for well-presented, modern homes in family-friendly estates,” Sophie says.
Often, we have up to ten additional qualified applicants who miss out on securing the property.
“The region’s affordability, combined with lifestyle appeal, local employment opportunities, and growing infrastructure, continues to attract both local tenants and those relocating from Sydney and Newcastle.”
Design Drives Returns
It’s not just location doing the heavy lifting—property design plays a critical role in maximising rental yield and long-term return on investment.
While choosing the right suburb is important, selecting the right design for the block, in the right street, with a layout that appeals to today’s tenants can be the difference between a high-performing property and one that underdelivers.
In a market shaped by rising interest rates and cost-of-living pressures, the layout, positioning, and build quality of your investment property can significantly impact your cash flow.
Well-designed homes can generate positive returns, while poorly thought-out properties may struggle to cover holding costs.
“Well-thought-out floorplans that maximise usable space, include ample storage, and offer open-plan living with seamless indoor-outdoor flow are what tenants are after,” Sophie adds.
“Features like additional bathrooms, alfresco areas, and quality finishes don’t just help command premium rents—they also reduce vacancy periods and support stronger long-term yields.”
This aligns with what we’ve seen across our portfolio of dual living properties: homes that are modern, flexible and low-maintenance consistently outperform those that aren’t.
Why Haverton Homes Perform
As a builder committed to both investor outcomes and tenant satisfaction, Haverton Homes has developed a strong reputation for delivering homes that meet local demand.
“Their homes are modern, practical and well suited to families, professionals and downsizers. The layouts are smart, finishes are durable, and from a property management point of view, they’re easy to maintain and attract long-term tenants,” Sophie says.
This balance of liveability and investment value is what makes Haverton Homes stand out in the region.
Top Tips for Boosting Rental Yield in the Hunter
To round out the conversation, Sophie offered this advice to anyone looking to maximise their investment returns in the Hunter Region:
• Choose modern, low-maintenance homes in high-growth areas
• Look for flexible floorplans—dual living or duplex options offer great rental versatility
• Prioritise features like ducted air conditioning, solar panels, multiple living spaces and covered alfresco areas
• Work with a proactive property manager who knows the local market and can minimise vacancies
Wrapping Up
If you’re looking to take advantage of strong regional rental yields, the Hunter Region—particularly around Maitland—remains a smart place to invest.
And as always, homes with thoughtful, tenant-focused design will put you in the strongest position to grow your return over time.
Want to learn more?
Check out our recent articles:
Smart Design, Stronger Returns: How to Maximise Rental Yields Through Better Property Design
How Dual Living Homes Make Property Investment More Affordable
Want to speak with someone about the areas we’re currently building in and the opportunities we have available?
Why not book a book a discovery call with a team that put investors first and is dedciated to supporting your wealth building journey from start to finish.
