Bond and rent in advance come first
Most leases need a bond, commonly up to four weeks’ rent under state rules, and rent paid in advance, often two weeks. On a $600-a-week home that is $2,400 of bond and $1,200 of rent, or $3,600 before you move in.
In most states the bond is lodged with a government bond authority, not kept by the landlord, and you should get a receipt. The maximum bond and advance rent are set by your state’s rules.
Moving and setting up
Removalist costs depend on the distance, the volume and the day; get more than one quote, or price a truck hire if you can move yourself. Allow for cleaning and any items the new place needs.
Electricity, gas and internet can carry connection fees, and contents insurance covers your belongings, which the landlord’s insurance does not.
Watch for overlapping rent
If your current lease has not ended, you may pay rent on two homes for a few weeks, or a break fee to end a fixed-term lease early. Notice periods and break fees are set by your lease and your state’s rules.
Time the move to the end of your lease where you can, and give notice in writing as your state requires.
Protect the bond you are leaving
Your condition report from the start of the lease is the reference for getting your old bond back. Photograph the property when you leave, and clean to the standard the lease requires.
Until the old bond is refunded, you may be paying two bonds at once, so include that in your moving budget.
Sources & further reading
- NSW Fair Trading — renting
- Consumer Affairs Victoria — renting
- Residential Tenancies Authority (QLD)
- Rent increase calculator
Market context and illustrative scenarios are not valuations or individual financial advice. Definitions and source availability can change.