Real Estate
19 February, 2026
Renting out rooms
THE Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has thrown its support behind a legislative change that will remove restrictions for homeowners wanting to rent out rooms without risk to their concessions or grants.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the move to change eligibility requirements to allow homeowners to rent out empty rooms within the first 12 months of purchase without penalty to their concession or grant was the brainchild of the REIQ.
“This initiative is a win-win for both homeowners and renters in Queensland and we are proud to have instigated this common-sense change,” she said.
“It aligns with the REIQ’s vision for greater levels of homeownership, which was a central pillar of our election platform and has the dual benefit of helping to alleviate both financial and rental accessibility pressures.
“By allowing homeowners to rent out spare rooms, this initiative not only supports first homeowners in managing their mortgage costs but also taps new housing options for renters.”
Ms Mercorella said the REIQ advocated for the removal of the restrictions.
