We are able to offer a comprehensive range of permanent rental properties. Fixed term tenancy agreements can be negotiated for periods exceeding 90 days.

While it's not feasible to list every dwelling, as a rule the following criteria dictate the weekly rental rates in Port Douglas; it may appear that rents in Port Douglas are high in comparison to the national average. This can be attributed to higher demand over supply and a very buoyant employment market.

As a guide, here are some examples of local properties that we have handled, but please contact us for the up-to-date situation on renting property in Port Douglas:

• For those wanting independence, such as young couples renting their first home, or those on a strict budget, we have Villa St Crispins. This small complex is located out of town with two bedroom two bathroom fully a/c and shared pool, furnished and unfurnished, the rental price starts at $240 per week, other keypoints include, private courtyard or balcony, excellent access to Four Mile Beach, shops and social centers.

  

• Want to share, but retain separate lifestyles? Apartment living is the answer. These 2 bedrooms, 2-bathroom apartments in two blocks of four with underground parking, private basement store, shared pool. Great location, being within walking distance of Macrossan Street, main hotels, as well as the beach and marina. These properties come fully furnished at $260 per week or unfurnished for only $230, features include a large balcony entrance with security gate.

  

• Executive style 3-bedroom family home on the lakefront in one of Port Douglas' more prestigious locations. Huge master bedroom, with ensuite and walk-in robe, direct access to the pool. The family/entertaining outdoor area is nestled amongst tropical gardens overlooking a fishpond and the lake. There are two more bedrooms and a bathroom with cloakroom upstairs. This unfurnished stylish home is perfect for entertaining on a regular basis particularly if impressions are important, price on application.

Perfect Family Home

These family homes are available for long-term lease, perfect for a larger family, with three bedrooms*, two good-sized bathrooms and a reasonable yard normally fenced.

To be had fully furnished or not these single storey homes were built over the last 3 years from about 2000 they are all spacious, well presented and in a great location, Port Gardens, on the edge of Port Douglas.

Available for periods no less than 6 months but 12 months preferred these well-established homes must be a serious consideration when a family is relocating to Port Douglas. There are four bedroom, three bathroom homes also available.

Rental: $350 per week, depending on circumstances

Other Factors And Issues To Consider

Location: Generally the nearer the property is to Macrossan Street or Four Mile Beach, the higher the rental rate. As is the case in most towns, the central and beach locations are the most popular. Because Port Douglas spreads some 6km from the centre there are excellent private bus services offering regular transportation. Alternatively, the relatively flat terrain makes bicycles a popular form of getting around.

Facilities and Chattels: Properties are furnished to varying degrees; although very few are without white goods and tropical fans. Pools are an obvious draw and attract higher rates, as do properties with air conditioning. We encourage our landlords to update furnishings and fittings as appropriate. There is also a maintenance programme in place, which ensures standards are kept at a high level.

Age: Port Douglas was a sleepy little village until 15 years ago since then new developments have mushroomed, consequently there are very few old properties left. The majority of these stylish resorts, villas and apartments have been built with the holidaymaker in mind, which has unfortunately led to a shortage of residential property. However, there are a couple of developers who have had the foresight to specialise in new accommodation designed for the permanent market and we are fortunate enough to represent them.

Pets: On the whole because of the tropical environment owners discourage the keeping of pets, therefore a property that has license for pets is in demand, these tend to be villas and houses.

Length of Lease: Generally, the term of the contract plays a significant part in deciding the rental price but there are severe penalties attached to prematurely "dropping out" of any lease.

Due to the prolific movement of the of the work force it is impossible to predict availability over anything more than a 7 day period for this reason we recommend that every effort is made to keep in contact with us up to arrival.

Tips for new tenants

• Make a list of your renting criteria so that you can convey to the property manager exactly what you are looking for in a rental property.
• Register your details and rental requirements with your Ray White property management department so that the search can continue for the right property for you.
• Download our daily Property Alert direct to a location of your choosing.
• Drive around your preferred area and adjoining suburbs to help you to decide if you really like the area and if it suits your lifestyle.
• Seriously consider the length of lease you require as breaking lease fees could be incurred if you decide to leave early.
• Ensure that you take the time to inspect the property carefully to ascertain its suitability for your needs.
• Complete all sections of the tenancy application thoroughly; attach proof of identification, along with any written references and other required information. The application process will be quicker if you provide all the details required.
• Discuss with your new property manager, a suitable time to meet and sign the lease. The signing of the lease is a legal transaction and should be completed with attention to detail. Do not do this on the day you are moving as things can always go wrong.
• Arrange for all your utility connections prior to moving in, especially if you start your lease on a Saturday, out of hour call charges are expensive.
• The owner's insurance cover on the property does not extend to cover your belongings. It is recommended that you take out comprehensive contents insurance to cover your belongings.

We offer our owners a superior service and assure them of certain conditions, which will be kept when we consider any application for any rental in excess of 90 days.

• Firstly a bond, equivalent to 4 weeks rent must be lodged with the Residential Tenancies Authority, and two weeks rent to be paid in advance.
• Tenants are required to establish that they are of good character, are able to afford the rental and that they are stable so it is necessary to be able to provide bona fide references to our property manager when making an application for tenancy.

Ray White Port Douglas will complete thorough inspections pre- and post- tenancies therefore assuring the owner and tenant a full understanding of the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

More Information

For more information pertaining to the mechanics of renting property in Queensland see the Residential Tenancy Authority and our FAQ For Tenants And Landlords section.

The Ray White Successful Renting Guide is a useful publication for tenants and owners that contains information about issues faced in renting, and the steps to follow to ensure a trouble-free tenancy relationship. Most questions that you may have as either a tenant or a landlord are answered in this guide.

Alternatively, if your intention is to make Port Douglas your home for the long term, consider the benefits of being an owner-occupier. Ray White Port Douglas lists local residential properties that are for sale, as well as investment and commercial properties.

----> Click here for a list of currently available rental properties.