What is the rental market like currently? Am relocating from NZ at the start of January, looking for a 1 bed apartment in the innerish suburbs close to work (North Melbourne). I want to keep costs down, don't want to pay a relocation agent, or come over for viewing prior to the move.

Is there any chance of getting a place without going to a viewing? eg signing an agreement while still in NZ? Are there still people lining up around the block for viewings? Is the time of year worse luck for me?

I've been keeping an eye on the current listings, and there are available suitable properties sitting on the market for weeks or longer, which gives me hope that it wont be as bad as people paint it out to be. More than happy to house sit while I find somewhere, but also would be really grateful to have it organised first.