Desperate for some inside tips and helpful ways to try and secure a rental property in Christchurch. Am well aware of trademe. Have registered with a few agents but i think they are so overwhelmed with potential tennants they dont need to be responsive. This is not EQR/insurance covered either. Unfortunately the people needing the property dont always have easy internet access and are getting v discouraged that every open house that's half decent has 20 people lined up competing.
You are right. Competition for decent housing in Christchurch is high and expats often struggle to find a rental property.
Your best bet when looking for a rental property is to get in touch with a few letting agents. They will be able to alert you as soon as a suitable place becomes available, sometimes even before the property has made it onto the market.
For more information on the city's property market check out the Accommodation in Christchurch page.
Good luck
Shantalie