By Trigg McLeod – Director, JMW Real Estate
The City of Busselton Council has recently introduced changes to the rules for operating short-stay rentals such as Airbnb and holiday homes. For many owners in the South West, including Dunsborough, Yallingup, and Busselton, this has sparked conversations about whether keeping a property as an Airbnb is still the best investment choice.
At JMW Real Estate Dunsborough, we’ve been helping property owners navigate these changes and find solutions that suit their long-term goals. One option worth considering is converting your Airbnb into a residential rental property. Here’s why making the switch could work better for you and your investment.
Reliable Income vs Seasonal Bookings
Short-stay properties can bring in bursts of income during peak holiday seasons, but they’re often quiet during the off-season. Converting to a home to rent in Dunsborough provides a steady, consistent rental return that makes financial planning easier.
With demand for homes for rent and houses to rent in Dunsborough at record levels, long-term tenants are more likely to offer stable income year-round compared to fluctuating short-term stays.
Less Red Tape
The Council’s new regulations mean more compliance, fees, and paperwork for Airbnb owners. By transitioning to a residential rental, you can reduce compliance hassles and let our property management team handle the details.
Whether it’s commercial property management or residential property leasing, JMW Real Estate makes the process simple.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Guests in holiday rentals often create more wear and tear—constant check-ins, higher cleaning turnover, and the need for fully furnished homes. In contrast, long-term tenants treat the property as their home, which usually means lower ongoing maintenance costs.
Strong Local Demand for Rentals
The South West market continues to see strong demand for homes for rent in Dunsborough and surrounding areas, with vacancy rates remaining low. If you have a property, you may find securing a quality tenant is faster and easier than ever.
For investors looking at diversification, there’s also consistent demand in commercial real estate for rent across the Busselton and Dunsborough region.
Professional Property Management
Managing an Airbnb can be time-consuming—responding to guests, organising cleaners, and handling bookings. Switching to a long-term rental allows you to step back while we take care of everything. From tenant selection and rent collection to maintenance, our real estate property management team does it all.
We also specialise in real estate appraisals, so we can provide you with accurate rental valuations and keep you updated on the local real estate listings and market trends.
Long-Term Growth & Security
Whether you own homes for sale in Dunsborough or are considering turning one into a long-term rental, it’s important to consider both income and capital growth. The South West region remains one of WA’s strongest property markets, with buyers actively searching for houses for sale in Dunsborough, homes for sale, and even commercial real estate for sale.
By renting out your property, you’re securing income now while your asset appreciates in value over time.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Every property is unique, and so are your goals as an investor. If you’re thinking about moving your Airbnb into the residential market, our experienced team can help.
JMW Real Estate offers:
- Free rental and sales appraisals
- Expert advice on real estate listings and opportunities in the region
- Professional commercial and residential property management
Get in touch with JMW Real Estate today and let’s find the best way to maximise your investment property. Phone (08) 9756 8800 or email info@jmwrealestate.com.au.
