Tenant abandonment, while uncommon, presents a specific set of circumstances for Melbourne property owners looking to sell. It’s a legal process requiring adherence to Victorian legislation, and impacts the timing of a property campaign.
As of December 2025, if a tenant abandons a property, the landlord must follow a prescribed process to legally regain possession. This typically involves attempting to contact the tenant, issuing a Notice of Intention to Enter, and then a Notice to Vacate. Crucially, you cannot simply change the locks. In Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs, where properties often appeal to families, a vacant property can be advantageous for presentation. However, the legal process can add 4-8 weeks to the timeline before a sale campaign can commence. Preparing a property for sale while navigating this process requires careful coordination. Currently in Melbourne, typical property preparation costs range from $2,000 to $8,000 for styling, and $500 to $1,500 for professional photography, costs best factored in *after* regaining possession. Fletchers’ experience across the region allows us to advise on optimising presentation for the local market, particularly highlighting features buyers in 2026 favour – light-filled spaces and renovation potential.
Successfully navigating tenant abandonment is a prerequisite to a smooth property sale, and understanding the legal framework is essential.