Competitive rental market sees Wagga applicants offer more money

But, one organisation is concerned with how the situation could see some people left out in the cold.

RE/MAX real estate director David Skow said the agency's work has not slowed down despite this time of year being typically quiet.

Inspections are seeing more than 20 people booked in with at least 10 applications submitted prior to the viewing date.

He added while some aspiring renters have offered to pay more money, it is generally still about the applications.

"In some instances, it has made the difference, particularly when you have similar applications," Mr Skow said.

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"In one case, someone offered $50 extra a week, but that was because they wanted the owners to consider a short-term lease.

"We have also seen, more so than offering extra money per week, a lot of people willing to pay a large chunk of rent upfront."

Mr Skow said it had been one of the most "hectic" seasons he has seen.

He added the competitive nature could come down to a few factors, including people moving from the big cities to regional areas as well as more first-home buyers entering the market.

Mr Skow explained the latter owners are more likely to live at their property to take advantage of certain schemes rather than renting out the property.

Wagga Central Vinnies president Peter Burgess said the nature of the current rental market would see already struggling residents and families locked out.

He said it "needy people" are being forced into a rental market they cannot afford as there is not enough focus put on social and affordable housing.

"There is not enough social and affordable housing," he said.

"So they now have to compete with everyone else, and competing in that market is a very difficult gig.

"You can't blame the landlords for taking any higher offers as it is a free market, but it highlights the fact that there isn't enough social and affordable housing."

Mr Burgess said it is frustrating that they are still advocating for every person to have access to a roof over their head as a fundamental human right.