Housing downturn extends to mid-sized capitalsSimilarly, Brisbane recorded a 0.6% decline over the month, while Adelaide slipped 0.2%, showing that the weakness is no longer confined to the two largest capitals. Rental yields continue to rise, but is it enough? The national rental index edged higher by 0.4% in July, keeping the annual growth rate elevated (5.9%) for the third consecutive month. With increase in rents and decline in home values, gross rental yields continue to rise. While yields have improved, Mr Burg said the increase has been modest relative to higher borrowing costs.