by
Defence Housing Australia | Jan 28, 2026
In today's dynamic property market, traditional paths to homeownership are being redefined. Rather than sacrificing lifestyle for property ownership, a strategy known as ‘rentvesting’ allows you live where you want now, while investing for the future.
What is ‘rentvesting’?
Rentvesting involves renting a property to live in while simultaneously investing in a rental property elsewhere. This approach appeals to those who want to enter the property market, but still live in a vibrant, often more expensive area. Renting in a location that suits their lifestyle and investing in areas with strong rental yields and growth potential means rentvestors can achieve both personal and investment goals.
Benefits of rentvesting
- Lifestyle flexibility – Rentvesting allows you to live in your preferred location, whether it's close to work, amenities, or social activities, with less financial burden than owning property in these higher-cost areas.
- Faster market entry – By purchasing a more affordable investment property in a different location, you may be able to enter the market sooner, rather than waiting years to save a larger deposit for your preferred area.
- Geographic diversification – Rentvesting allows you to separate where you live from where you invest, potentially giving you access to markets with stronger rental yields or growth prospects.
- Greater housing mobility – As a renter, you have the flexibility to relocate for career opportunities or lifestyle changes, without the complexity associated with selling a home.
Leasing to DHA: A suitable option for rentvestors
For rentvestors, choosing the right investment property and management structure is crucial. Managing an investment property while renting yourself can be complex, which is where Defence Housing Australia (DHA) offers distinct advantages that align well with rentvesting goals.
“Leasing our property to DHA enables me to spend time with friends and family without thinking about my investments and what they’re doing.” – Erin, DHA Rentvestor
Secure and reliable investment
DHA leases over 12,000 properties across Australia, providing housing for Defence members and their families. We offer several pathways for property investors, ensuring a diverse range of investment opportunities:
This flexibility allows investors to choose the option that best suits their investment strategy and circumstances.
Long-term leases and guaranteed1 rent
One of the standout benefits of investing with us is the security of long-term leases, often up to 12 years, with the possibility of extensions2. Additionally, DHA offers guaranteed1 rent, even if the property is vacant, providing greater peace of mind and financial stability that traditional rental arrangements typically don’t offer.
This arrangement provides a stable and predictable income stream that helps rentvestors manage regular rental payments as a tenant themselves.
Comprehensive property care
DHA's Property Care Contract3 covers most non-structural repairs, vacancy management, and end-of-lease cleaning and repairs. This comprehensive service can reduce the stress and costs associated with property management, making it an attractive hands-off approach for rentinvestors.
Getting started with DHA
Rentvesting is a modern and flexible approach to property investment, offering the dual benefits of lifestyle choice and portfolio growth. Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to the property market, DHA provides a reliable and convenient pathway to help you pursue a rentvestment strategy. Our experienced team can guide you through the process and explain how a DHA investment can contribute to your personal and investment goals.
Hear from DHA rentvestor Erin
Ready to invest? If you'd like to speak to our Investor Support team to learn more about investing with DHA, please call 133 342 or submit an enquiry
1. Rent may be subject to abatement under certain circumstances such as loss of enjoyment or amenity, or breach of lease terms. Rent is paid where the property is habitable. Should a property become uninhabitable during the term of the lease, or lessor breaches the lease terms, the rent may cease or abate and the lease may be terminated by DHA. Guaranteed rent is subject to the terms of the lease. DHA does not take into account an investor's objectives or financial needs. Investors should always seek appropriate independent advice before making any investment decisions with DHA.
2. DHA can vary the lease term at our discretion by exercising each extension right once. Investors should consider their long term plans and potential changes in circumstances when assessing a DHA long term lease.
3. A comprehensive description of repairs included in our service and exclusions can be found in the Property Care Contract. For more information, please visit https://www.dha.gov.au/investing/property-care.