A leading property market analyst has cautioned that proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax discounts could lead to a dramatic increase in median rents, potentially rising by as much as 20 percent annually. This warning comes at a time when the housing market is already experiencing heightened pressure, with affordability issues contributing to a climate of extreme fear among potential renters and buyers. The anticipated reforms, aimed at addressing housing supply and investment incentives, could further exacerbate the current market dynamics, leading to increased competition for rental properties. As the sentiment shifts, stakeholders in the real estate sector are closely monitoring the implications of these policy changes, which could significantly reshape the landscape of property investment and rental affordability in the coming years.