Are there Really Benefits Renting Instead of Buying in Sydney?

March 04, 2026

The Difference of “Build to Rent” Apartments in Australia

We know lots of people like the idea of owning their own home – a place to decorate how you want, security knowing you can be asked to move out (as long as you pay on time!), and knowing it’s a sound investment (for the most part).

What if renting allowed you all those things too?

We know what traditional renting looks like – owners are the landlords and will often use a real estate agent to manage the property on their behalf. If you are renting an owner’s investment property, in many cases the owner/s are primarily focused on shorter term financial gains (aka: make as money as possible to bring down the mortgage, then sell the unit when the market is in a beneficial property sales cycle, and reinvest).

That’s where the Build to Rent (BTR) model is shaking things up and making some impressive improvements and changes to modern renting.

So, what is Built to Rent vs traditional renting in Australia? As the name implies, apartments are built with the primary purpose of creating housing for renters on a more stable, long-term basis. The intent of the developers isn’t to sell the properties, so renters have peace of mind knowing they have long term rental security and can rent their for as long as they want or need to.

Here’s a better look at some of the key Build to Rent benefits with arriva:

1. A Better Standard of Living

There’s no shortage of stories about tenants having to literally beg their landlords and agents to make some pretty basic repairs.

In an arriva property, it’s extremely important the team keep the property safe, secure and looking good, because the buildings will be rented for a long time. That’s why every arriva address has an on-site team taking care of safety checks, general repairs, cleaning, gardening, and more. The goal is to spot any issues before they become problems so you can enjoy rental convenience, not homeowner hassle.

Secure rental living is one of the key build to rent benefits, and always included at arriva. If you ever need to report an issue impacting your specific home, just use the online portal and it won’t be long before it’s fixed. CCTV, swipe access, building intercom and secure parking are built in so you can feel safe and at ease.

Better living also means having a strong tenant experience focus and enhanced freedom and features compared to most traditional rentals. At arriva you’ll get to enjoy timber flooring, split system air conditioning, storage, and more.

One of the arguably most coveted features if that is you’re looking for a pet friendly rental in Australia, an arriva apartment will welcome you and your pets.

All the build to rent benefit benefits of a professional managed rental community – without any of the maintenance costs (that’s what the building manager and maintenance team are for)!

2. Sustainable Rental Apartments

arriva apartments are designed with sustainability and responsibility in mind. Some of these features include:

Solar power
Water recycling
Electric vehicles charging stations in the carpark
Waste reduction initiatives
Every apartment has 5 star rated energy efficient appliances, water-saving fixtures, insulated wall ceilings, eco-friendly glazing and LED lighting – for responsible comfort
Community spaces designed for connection and relaxation
Locations close to public transport/highly walkable locations.

3. Location, Location, Location

Because Build to Rent property managers don’t see their main income as coming from the capital gains of selling properties, they invest in locations that are usually very desirable.

In the case of arriva, our locations are near some fantastic amenities – like universities and schools – so tenants can really lay down roots and build long-term community connections.

Each location is ideal for students, professionals, or couples or small families seeking a better rental experience, that doesn’t feel like just another unit. 

Here’s a Snapshot:

arriva Camperdown is just moments from countless cafes, restaurants, and the vibrant suburb of Newtown, the University of Sydney, University of Technology, and RPA Hospital. It’s also close to the CBD, and many shopping centres.

arriva Chippendale is just steps from Broadway Shopping Centre, Central Park Mall, UTS, Australian National University, Victoria Park, Prince Alfred Park, and much more.

arriva Strathfield is situated steps from Strathfield train station, as well as several parks, schools, and dining and retail options at Strathfield Plaza.

arriva St Peters has a range of wonderful shops, cafés, restaurants and more (gym, pet groomers, ec.) just below the apartments! You’re also within walking distance of Sydney Park, Camdenville Oval, and St Peters train station.

arriva Beaconsfield is walking distance from local cafés and shops, Green Square Station, Alexandria eateries and cycleways, with easy links to the CBD, airport and surrounding hotspots.

arriva Homebush is last, but not least on this list. It’s only minutes from Homebush Station, DFO Homebush, Sydney Olympic Park, Bicentennial Park, as well as local eateries.

4. Growth Your Wealth

Just because you’re renting, doesn’t mean you can invest wisely. In fact, you are at a distinctive advantage, because you don’t have your money tied up in a property, giving you more flexibility and freedom to pick and choose opportunities that could drive valuable returns.  

Some options* include:

Shares and EFTs
Bonds
Commodities
High interest savings accounts
Term deposits

Looking for somewhere to start? Try Moneysmart’s Budget Planner and Savings Calculator Tools

*Always consider your own individual circumstances, and where appropriate, seek professional financial advice from a trusted and reputable Financial Advisor to understand the best investment options for your personal circumstances, budget and investment goals.

Where to Next?

If you want to create a home without the high upfront costs of home ownership, or the fear of unexpected moves, it’s time to experience the arriva difference for yourself. Find your home at arriva.