How negative gearing reforms are affecting rental supply in 2026

Why rental homes are disappearing from the market

Changes to negative gearing have reduced incentives for some investors to hold rental properties. As a result, many are choosing to exit the market, contributing to a noticeable decline in rental stock. This reduction is increasing competition for available homes and driving up rental prices.

Understanding housing challenges

In the reel, Sean highlights that negative gearing reforms are prompting some investors to sell or repurpose their properties, reducing rental availability. This shift is creating pressure in the rental market and influencing broader housing conditions.

Key changes affecting home buyers

Investor exits reducing rental supply

Negative gearing reforms have reduced the appeal of holding investment properties for some landlords. As a result, more investors are selling or repurposing their rentals, which is shrinking the pool of available rental homes. For home buyers, this change increases competition in the broader housing market and can influence pricing and timing decisions.

Refinements to existing housing initiatives are designed to improve access and reduce pressure for owner occupiers. These changes can support buyers who are close to securing finance by improving affordability and strengthening their overall financial position.

 

The combination of reduced rental supply and rising rents is changing affordability for both renters and buyers. Higher living costs mean lenders may take a more conservative view of serviceability, particularly for borrowers close to their limits. Strong budgeting and clear, predictable spending patterns are becoming more important for home loan approval in this environment.

What owner occupiers should be aware of

Market shifts driven by negative gearing reforms can influence demand, pricing and competition. For owner occupiers, understanding these changes can help with timing, budgeting and planning for a home loan.

Need help understanding your borrowing capacity?

If you want clarity on how negative gearing reforms affect your borrowing capacity or buying strategy, we can walk you through your numbers and outline what lenders are looking for. There is no cost to you because the lender pays the fee once your loan settles.

1. Why are rental homes disappearing from the market?

Negative gearing reforms have reduced incentives for some investors, prompting them to exit the market.

Reduced rental supply increases competition and can drive up rental prices.

Yes. Higher rents can affect savings and borrowing capacity, influencing when buyers enter the market.

Understanding market shifts can help with timing, budgeting and planning for a home loan.

No. The lender pays the fee once your loan settles.

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Meet Sean Wellman

Sean’s knowledge of property and loan structuring enables him to build trust quickly with his clients. He is passionate about lending strategies that compliment his client’s goals and ability to build wealth.With a strong finance and AFL coaching background he focuses on educating his clients so they have a clear understanding of the home loan process and how to use equity to facilitate financial growth.