Key Insights on Tenant Behaviour in SDA Investments

When investing in Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), it’s important to consider more than just the property itself. Understanding who your tenants are and their specific needs is an important part of securing a successful investment. 

Many SDA participants have high support needs, including those that require Positive Behaviour Support (PBS). For investors, this means considering how these tenants are cared for and how this care can influence the long-term success of their property. By learning about Positive Behaviour Support and its role in SDA housing, investors can better understand how properties are managed

Who Are Your Tenants? Understanding SDA Participants with Behaviour Support Needs

SDA properties are designed for participants with various disabilities, including those with behaviours that require specific support. These tenants often have Behaviour Support Plans in place, which are developed by professionals to manage behaviours of concern and improve their overall quality of life.

A Positive Behaviour Support Plan focuses on identifying the reasons behind certain behaviours and providing strategies to help reduce them. This involves working closely with the tenant, their support team, and their family. As an investor, recognising that your property may house tenants with these needs helps you appreciate the extra care and safety measures required to manage the property efficiently.

Read also: Finding the right Tenant for your NDIS SDA Investment

The Importance of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) for SDA Homes

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) helps create a safe and stable environment for SDA participants and staff. Managing challenging behaviours effectively reduces disruptions, ensuring tenants can live safely and comfortably in their homes.

From an investment perspective, PBS directly impacts the long-term viability of a property. SIL (Supported Independent Living) providers, or care teams working in a home who effectively manage tenants with Behaviour Support Plans, ensure the home is more likely to be fully occupied and operate smoothly. Support workers are better equipped to manage challenging situations, which results in fewer vacancies or turnover of participants. This stability is what investors seek for consistent returns, reducing the risks of tenant dissatisfaction or operational issues.

Having tenants who feel supported, and staff who are confident in managing behaviour, makes properties more desirable. It helps maintain consistent tenancies, lowers vacancy risks, and boosts the overall appeal of your property to care providers.

Where to Invest: Areas with Growing Demand for High-Support SDA Properties

Regions with strong SDA market demand offer greater opportunities for higher occupancy rates and long-term tenants. For example, areas such as inner Melbourne and parts of Sydney & New South Wales are seeing increased demand for homes that cater to participants with more complex support needs.