2025 Build to Rent report: A new era for Australia’s living sector
2025 Build to Rent report: A new era for Australia’s living sector
The Build to Rent (BtR) sector has officially arrived. Once considered niche, BtR is now a core strategy for institutional investors seeking long-term returns in a market shaped by housing undersupply and shifting lifestyle preferences.
BDO’s 2025 BtR report explores the sector’s evolution, revealing a maturing market backed by resilient fundamentals, growing investor confidence, and a surge in professionally managed rental communities.
Institutional investment in residential real estate is no longer a side bet; it’s a central strategy for long-term value and community impact. The momentum we’re seeing is a direct response to the sector’s resilience and the growing demand for purpose built rental housing creating greater sense of community and wellbeing.
Key report highlights
- $30.1 billion national pipeline across 113 projects and 39,316 apartments
- +41 per cent growth in sector value year-on-year
- +6 new platforms entered the market, bringing fresh capital and scale
- 80 per cent of BtR apartments expected to be operated under dedicated management platforms.
State-by-state snapshot
- Victoria leads the way, with 51 projects and 19,719 units
- New South Wales follows with 35 projects and 11,864 units
- Queensland shows strong potential with 17 projects and 6,124 units, despite delivery challenges
- Other states show strategic growth, with institutional capital focused on the eastern seaboard.
Note: Project and unit numbers listed includes those operating, under construction and planned.
What’s driving BtR growth?
- Institutional ownership: Super funds, sovereign wealth funds, and insurers are backing BtR for its stable, long-term returns
- Resident experience: BtR communities offering concierge services, co-working spaces, and lifestyle amenities tailored to renters
- Operational maturity: Platforms like Nation, HOME, and Greystar are setting new benchmarks in tenant experience and asset performance.
Download the report to explore the six foundational priorities that will assist to shape the next phase of BtR’s maturity.
How BDO can help
BDO’s projects and infrastructure advisory team is working with developers, investors, and government stakeholders to shape the future of BtR. From valuation and transaction structuring to tax strategy and environmental, social and governance (ESG) integration, our experts offer deep, hands-on support across the BtR lifecycle.
