What Makes a Great Property Management Team?
By Mark Hamblyn, Terri Scheer Distribution Manager
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) recently named the state’s best of the best in property management.
Melbourne-based agency LongView took home this year’s Residential Property Management Team of the Year award – proudly sponsored by Terri Scheer.
We spoke with LongView’s Tessa Stirling, who shared the keys to her team’s success and insight into the 2025 rental market outlook.
Q: What drives your team to success?
A: At LongView, it really comes down to our shared drive to do great work for our clients. We’re all passionate about property and genuinely care about helping both landlords and renters have a better experience. Our team brings a lot of knowledge to the table, and we’re always investing in training, technology, and new ways to work better together. That helps us stay proactive, find solutions before problems arise, and consistently deliver results that go above and beyond.
Q: How is the Victorian rental market performing, and what can we expect heading into the new FY2026?
A: Right now, the Victorian rental market is as tight as ever. Vacancy rates are extremely low, and rents are still climbing, especially in inner-city and high-demand suburbs. A mix of population growth, limited housing supply, and high demand is keeping pressure on the market. As we move into FY2026, we expect that trend to continue, with modest rent increases likely. That said, rising costs along with regulation changes could start to influence renter behaviour, which is why having a solid Property Management strategy is more important than ever.
Q: How has LongView adapted to this increasingly challenging market?
A: We’ve really leaned into being proactive and staying ahead of the curve. Our data team plays a big role in helping us spot trends early and support our landlords with the right information. We’ve also focused on clear, timely communication, smart marketing to reduce vacancy time, and investing in technology that makes things simpler and smoother for both landlords and renters. We’re always evolving, and that flexibility has helped us continue to deliver great outcomes even in a tricky market.
Q: Why is landlord insurance important to your clients, and what is the benefit of holding a policy?
A: Landlord insurance is one of those things you hope you never need, but when you do, it’s a lifesaver. Even with great renters and thorough screening, things like missed rent or accidental damage can still happen. A solid insurance policy gives our landlords peace of mind, covering risks that regular home insurance often doesn’t. It’s not just about protecting the property, it’s about protecting their income and investment in the long run.