Why Smart Landlords in Adelaide Are Rethinking Rental Pricing—And Why You Should Too

If you’re a landlord with great tenants, you’ve likely asked yourself this question more than once: how can I continue to make the most of my investment without overstretching my tenants?

It’s a tricky balance, especially with Adelaide rental prices on the rise.

The good news?

Being an ethical landlord isn’t just possible—it can also be highly profitable in the long run.

Here, Natalie Jones, Sales Director at We Connect Property discusses not only how to maximise your rental returns while being fair and supportive to your tenants, but also why it is so important.

From setting the right price to creative ways of adding value, here’s how you too can succeed as an ethical landlord while building both wealth and positive relationships with your tenants.

Why Being an Ethical Landlord Matters

Let’s face it: the rental market can feel overwhelming.

Demand for homes is high, tenants are feeling the pinch of rising prices, and, as a landlord, you’re trying to balance it all.

But the truth is, when you choose to take an ethical approach, you’re not just helping your tenants—you’re protecting your investment too.

That’s because being an ethical landlord is about seeing the bigger picture—creating a win-win situation where tenants feel valued and where you enjoy a steady rental income.

When you treat your tenants fairly and approach property management with integrity, the benefits go far beyond what you might expect.

Here are three big reasons why being a great landlord impacts the success of your investment:

1. Happy tenants stick around: Long-term tenants mean fewer vacancies and lower turnover costs.
2. You’ll attract quality renters: Word gets around. Ethical landlords build a reputation that attracts the right tenants.
3. It protects your investment: When tenants feel respected, they’re more likely to take care of the property.

“When landlords focus on fairness, everyone wins. It’s about more than just yield—it’s about building trust and ensuring the longevity of your investment—not just chasing short term profit.

“It’s really just common sense—treat good tenants well, and they’ll stick around,” says Natalie.

How to Set Fair Rental Prices

But setting the right rental price can be a balancing act.

Of course, as a landlord, you want to ensure a good return and capitalise on market dynamics.

However, it’s important to be fair and realistic, especially in a market like Adelaide where affordability is a concern for many tenants.

So how can you achieve it?

Start with the basics:

- Know your market: Check what similar properties are renting for in your area. It’s a great way to gauge what tenants are willing (and able) to pay.
- Consider your property’s value: If you’ve recently renovated or added features like air conditioning or solar panels, that can justify a slightly higher rent—but keep it reasonable.
- Be transparent about increases: If you need to raise the rent, do it gradually and give tenants plenty of notice. Sudden hikes can damage trust.

Think ‘outside the box’

The good news is, fair pricing doesn’t have to mean sticking to the norm!

Here are a few creative strategies to show your tenants you’re considering their situation:

- Offer a rent reprieve or discount: A rent-free week during the holiday season or a small discount once a year can make a big difference to tenants. Not only does this help during tougher financial times, but it also builds goodwill, making tenants more likely to renew their lease.
- Incentivise longer leases: If tenants commit to a longer lease, agree to not increase the rent during that period. This gives them financial stability while guaranteeing you a steady income.
- Tie rent increases to upgrades: Planning a small rent bump? Pair it with visible improvements like fresh paint, updated appliances, new carpet or more efficient lighting. Tenants will see the added value and be more open to the change.
- Reward loyalty: A small thank-you gesture, like a one-time discount for renewing a lease, goes a long way in showing appreciation and keeping good tenants around.

Natalie explains.

"Fair pricing shows your tenants you’re in this for the long haul, not just a quick profit.

“When they feel valued and secure, they’re more likely to stay longer and take care of your property—and that consistency and peace-of-mind is worth so much more than trying to squeeze every last dollar out of them."

Of course, if you’re unsure about what might work for you and your tenants, a professional property manager might just be your most valuable resource.

Why? Because they live and breathe property management.

They have access to local market data and years of experience analysing rental trends, meaning they can help you price your property competitively—high enough to deliver a strong return, but fair enough to attract and retain quality tenants.

Non-Pricing Ways to Maximise Returns

Being an ethical landlord isn’t just about the rent.

There are plenty of ways to make your property more appealing and profitable while keeping your tenants happy.

"The little things landlords do—like adding a simple upgrade or offering a thoughtful gesture—often go a long way in tenant satisfaction.

It’s not just kindness; it’s smart business. Happy tenants take better care of your property and tend to stick around for years rather than months,” says Natalie.

Here are some great non-rent related strategies to consider:

1. Make small upgrades that matter

It doesn’t take much to make a property feel more like home.

Adding energy-efficient appliances, installing air conditioning or extra storage—even just freshening up the garden—can go a long way.

Not only will these upgrades improve your property’s appeal for tenants, but will also add value when time comes to sell.

2. Offer flexibility

Not all tenants have the same needs.

Offering flexible lease terms—like longer leases or allowing minor customisations to the property—can make it more attractive and help retain tenants.

3. Add value beyond the basics

Little extra can make a big difference.

Offering amenities like free internet or a regular gardening service can make your property stand out in a competitive market.

These little touches also show tenants you’re willing to invest in their comfort, which keeps them happy and more likely to stay.

"Thanks to their thorough screening process, good property managers should know exactly what your tenants value most. This can help you make thoughtful choices that increase your returns over time. So it definitely pays to engage an agent who takes tenant screening seriously," says Natalie.

Building Great Relationships with Tenants

Strong relationships with tenants are the foundation of a successful rental property.

When tenants feel respected and valued, they’re more likely to take care of your property—and stay longer.

"Your tenants aren’t just renting a property—they’re creating a home—so it helps to think of them as collaborators in your success,” suggests Natalie.

“When you and your property manager treat them with respect and communicate openly, they’re more likely to care about your property and look after it like it’s their own."

So how do you build trust with your tenants?

Here are Natalie’s top tips:

- Keep communication open, always: Be transparent and approachable. Tenants should feel comfortable raising concerns or asking questions.
- Respond promptly to issues: If there’s a maintenance request or problem, act quickly. It shows tenants you respect their time and comfort.
- Be fair and consistent: Treat all tenants with the same level of care and respect. This builds trust and reduces potential conflicts.

Undoubtedly, managing this kind of relationship takes time—and that’s where a property manager can make all the difference.

“Your tenants are more than just renters—they’re the key to your investment’s success. Treat them like partners, and you’ll reap the rewards,” Natalie explains.

At We Connect Property, we’ve seen firsthand how strong relationships can transform property management.

"On a number of occasions we’ve stepped in to help landlords whose tenants were considering moving out due to delayed maintenance or communication issues—in each case, the landlords just couldn’t keep on top of their property management—repairs, legalities, contracts, rent collection—in addition to all the other things going on in their life.

“By having us take the reins, addressing tenant concerns quickly and improving communication, we were able to turn things around, and the tenants ended up renewing their lease."

Why Work with a Professional Property Manager

Like many things—and despite all best intentions— for many landlords, managing a property ethically can feel overwhelming or complicated.

That’s why engaging a property manager is often the smartest move you can make.

But what value do they bring to the table?

“A great property manager isn’t just there to lighten your load—they act as a partner in achieving your goals. It’s like having a co-pilot to help drive your investment.

“Thanks to their expertise, they can help you navigate the tough parts so you can focus on what matters most— growing your returns while maintaining fairness and integrity,” says Natalie.

How Property Managers offer support and add value

- They know the market: Property managers know the local market. From rental trends to tenant expectations, they’ll help you price fairly and position your property effectively.
- They handle tenant relationships: Rent increases, disputes, or tricky maintenance—they handle everything so you can focus on your investment (and all the other things you’d rather be doing!).
- They keep you compliant: South Australian tenancy laws can be complex. A property manager ensures you’re up to date with everything, reducing the risk of costly mistakes, penalties and fines.

The Bottom Line

Being an ethical landlord isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s about creating a stable, profitable investment that benefits everyone involved.

Having an ethical mindset and working with a professional property manager that is on the same page as you, means you can navigate the challenges of property management with ease and enjoy the rewards of a long-term, reliable income—because happy tenants and profitable investments go hand in hand.

Are you looking for guidance on ethical property management? At We Connect Property, that’s our jam.

We truly believe that you can maximise your returns without compromising your core values.

Offering a truly personalised approach, we specialise in managing properties ethically, all while keeping the success of all parties firmly front-of-mind.

So if you’re ready to take your property management to the next level? We Connect Property are here to help get the most out of your investment.

-------

If you’d like some expert guidance and support, we’re ready and waiting to help.

As property experts with over 21+ years combined experience in buying, selling and managing property in Adelaide, We Connect Property are ready and waiting to offer expert guidance and support when you need it most, and can answer all your questions about leasing your investment property.

If you’re just getting started, or looking for more valuable property selling, buying or investing tips, tricks and hints? Check out these other handy articles on our blog:

And for all the very best property selling, buying or investing advice, why not connect with us? Check out our 5 star Google reviews to find out what our happy clients think!

Give us a call on 0403 799 983 today, or drop a line to sales@weconnectproperty.com.au - we can’t wait to chat!

To stay connected with everything real estate, follow us! Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn | YouTube

Or connect with us today for more information : Connect Now

We Connect Property - your Adelaide real estate & property management specialists.

DISCLAIMER: All recommendations made by We Connect Property are general in nature and not to be relied upon as legal or financial advice. To ensure accuracy, we always strongly recommend seeking independent, professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any investment or financial decisions.