Buying a House in Australia as an Expat (2026 Update)
Thinking about buying a house in Australia?
You’re not alone.
Australia remains one of the most attractive places in the world for British expats and overseas buyers, thanks to its warm climate, high quality of life, and thriving cities.
Whether you’re planning a permanent move, exploring investment opportunities, or securing a home for future relocation, understanding how the Australian property market works in 2026 is absolutely essential.
Much has changed since 2024, particularly regarding what foreign buyers can and cannot purchase.
New government rules were introduced to boost housing availability and have a direct impact on anyone looking to buy from overseas.
While the process remains achievable, it now requires more planning, more transparent budgeting, and a solid grasp of the approval requirements for non-residents.
This updated guide covers everything you need to know when buying a home in Australia today, from FIRB rules and buyer restrictions to mortgages, taxes, and the step-by-step purchasing process.
Whether you’re targeting Sydney’s fast-paced market, Melbourne’s cultural suburbs, or Queensland’s coastal lifestyle, you’ll find practical advice to help you make confident, well-informed decisions.
Things You Need to Consider Before Your Departure From the UK
From visa options to healthcare, planning your move early makes the transition to Australian life far smoother.
Relocating to the opposite side of the world is a major life change, and it’s one that calls for plenty of planning long before your property search begins.
Beyond understanding your own reasons for buying a home in Australia, it’s worth taking stock of a few essential considerations that can make the entire process far more straightforward.
To help you prepare, we’ve outlined the key factors every prospective buyer should keep in mind:
Review Your Visa Options
Take time to understand which visas you qualify for, how the application process works, and what requirements you’ll need to meet to relocate legally and smoothly.
Evaluate the Cost of Living
Compare day-to-day expenses across different Australian cities, from rent and groceries to utilities and healthcare, so you can match your preferred location with your financial expectations.
Familiarise Yourself with Healthcare
Australia’s healthcare system combines Medicare and private insurance. Explore how each works and what level of cover you’ll need as a new arrival.
Prepare for Lifestyle Differences
Cultural norms, working styles, and everyday routines can differ significantly from those in the UK. Understanding these early can make settling in far easier.
Sort Out Your Finances
Look into international money transfers, banking options, and opening an Australian bank account ahead of time. This helps you plan your budget and manage moving costs effectively.
Research the Job Market
Investigate employment opportunities in your field and check the demand for your skills across states and territories.
Plan Your Move Carefully
From shipping belongings to deciding whether to rent furnished accommodation first, organising logistics early helps keep costs under control.
Build Your Support Network
Embrace opportunities to meet new people, both locals and fellow expats, to help you settle faster and feel at home.
If you’re keen to get a clearer picture of everyday life Down Under, we’ve put together several in-depth guides worth exploring, including Moving to Australia from the UK: 50 Reasons to Go and Shipping to Australia – 7 Things You Must Do (Before You Go).
These resources will give you a realistic feel for what to expect before you make the leap.
With thorough research, careful planning, and an understanding of the key steps involved, relocating to Australia can be an incredibly rewarding experience and one that sets you up for a fresh start you’ll be glad you embraced.
Can Expats & Foreigners Buy Property in Australia?
Yes, but new restrictions apply. Foreign buyers are currently limited to new builds and vacant land until 2027.
Yes, but with the recently introduced new restrictions.
As part of housing reforms designed to boost supply and improve affordability, the Australian Government introduced a temporary ban starting from Apr 2025 to Mar 2027 on foreign buyers purchasing established homes (i.e., resale houses already lived in).
What You Can Buy (with Approval)
Even under the ban, foreign persons can still apply to buy:
- New or near-new dwellings
- Vacant residential land (with strict build-out conditions)
- Certain approved redevelopment projects
Approval is mandatory before you buy, failure to obtain approval from the FIRB (Foreign Investment Review Board) will result in hefty penalties.
Visit the Australian Taxation Office for more detailed information regarding foreigners buying homes in Australia.
However, if you are an Australian citizen or hold permanent residency, you can buy any property you like without FIRB approval.
The idea of applying for FIRB approval can sound daunting, but in most cases, the process is quite manageable, especially if you’re buying a new development or planning to build.
The key is to start looking into your eligibility early, ideally at the very beginning of your property search.
Knowing where you stand upfront helps you plan your next steps and avoid unnecessary delays.
You’ll need to submit your FIRB application once you’ve chosen a property, but before you sign any contracts.
Processing times vary, so it’s important to factor this stage into your overall timeline.
With a solid understanding of the requirements and a bit of forward planning, foreign buyers can navigate the FIRB process with confidence and avoid unexpected hurdles.
Check out this informative article about how to get approval from the FIRB.
Getting a Mortgage in Australia as a British Expat
Securing a loan is possible, but expect to need a 20-30% deposit. Specialist brokers can help you find lenders who work with non-residents.
You may need some extra financial support to purchase your dream home.
It is good to know that securing a mortgage in Australia as a British expat is absolutely possible, but lenders do apply stricter criteria to overseas buyers.
Most major banks, including ANZ and Commonwealth Bank, offer loans to non-residents, though you’ll usually need FIRB approval in place before applying.
Expect to provide a larger deposit than local buyers, typically 20–30%, along with evidence of income, employment stability, credit history, and your visa status. Requirements vary, so comparing lenders is essential.
Many expats choose to work with a specialist mortgage broker, such as Mortgage Choice or Aussie Home Loans, who understands foreign-buyer lending and can access products not always advertised publicly.
With the right documents and expert guidance, buying a home in Australia with a mortgage is entirely achievable for UK expats.
Key Taxes British Buyers Should Understand
Another vital aspect for foreign buyers purchasing property in Australia is the tax implications.
You will be subject to several taxes, the most notable being stamp duty, which is charged by each state based on the property’s value.
Many states also apply a Foreign Buyer Surcharge, which can be significant, up to 8% in Victoria and New South Wales.
You can find out more about taxes when buying and selling homes in Australia via the Aussie website.
If you later sell your home, you may also be liable for Capital Gains Tax (CGT), with your residency status and length of ownership influencing how much you pay.
Investment properties may be subject to land tax, which varies by state; check your local revenue office for details.
Given the complexity of these rules, speaking with an Australian tax advisor is strongly recommended to ensure full compliance.
Finding the Right Home in Australia
Whether you want a pool in Queensland or a city apartment in Melbourne, research is key. Use sites like Realestate.com.au to track market trends.
The next step towards owning your dream home in Australia is to find it!
House-hunting is often the most exciting stage of the process, and most homes are larger when compared tothose in the UK.
Additionally, a large proportion includes a swimming pool.
If you already know where you want to live, you’re ahead of the game, but if not, take time to research suburbs that match your lifestyle, budget, and commute.
Checking recent sales data on sites like Realestate.com.au can give you a clear sense of local prices and market trends.
Modern new homes often feature open-plan layouts and quality appliances, with many developments offering shared amenities such as pools, BBQ areas, and landscaped communal spaces.
If you’re not ready to buy immediately, renting first is a popular way to settle in and get to know the area.
Why Using a Local Real Estate Agent Matters
A good agent is your eyes on the ground. They can guide you through auctions and help you find properties that meet FIRB criteria.
Once you have made your final choice of where to live, working with a qualified real estate agent is one of the smartest steps a foreign buyer can take when purchasing a home in Australia.
A good agent offers detailed insight into neighbourhoods, including market trends, pricing, lifestyle factors, schools, transport links, and community character, helping you quickly narrow down areas that fit your needs and budget.
Beyond finding suitable properties, agents provide a realistic understanding of local market conditions, so you avoid overpaying or choosing a home that doesn’t meet your expectations.
Their established networks with conveyancers, mortgage brokers, and inspectors can also streamline the entire buying process.
Agents guide you through key stages, including contract terms, auction rules, and state-specific regulations.
To check an agent’s credentials, you can use the Real Estate Institute of Australia directory: https://reia.com.au/.
With expert support, foreign buyers can navigate the market confidently and reduce costly mistakes.
Popular Australian Cities for British Homebuyers
From the bustle of Sydney to the laid-back Gold Coast, discover which Australian city best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Australia’s property market caters to every lifestyle, from buzzing city centres to relaxed coastal suburbs.
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast remain the top picks for many British expats.
Sydney blends iconic landmarks with a high-demand housing market. Prices are steep, but long-term growth remains strong.
Melbourne offers a vibrant arts scene, café culture, and slightly more affordable suburbs with excellent public transport.
Brisbane appeals to those seeking warm weather and a laid-back lifestyle while still enjoying city conveniences.
The Gold Coast, known for beaches and year-round sunshine, is popular with lifestyle seekers and holiday-home buyers.
Each city has its own advantages, so comparing prices, amenities, and long-term plans is essential before deciding where to buy.
Take a look at the 20 best places to live in Australia for Expats for more inspiration.
Step-by-Step: Buying Your Australian Property
Follow our clear checklist: Budget, Pre-Approval, FIRB Application, Offer, and Settlement.
Here’s an easy-to-follow breakdown of the whole purchasing process from start to finish:
- Set Your Budget
Include deposit, taxes, fees, and FIRB costs. - Explore and Research
Target cities and suburbs based on lifestyle, price, schools, and commute. - Secure Pre-Approval
Getting pre-approval from a lender strengthens your offer. - Apply for FIRB Approval
Mandatory for foreign buyers before signing a contract. - Find the Right Property
Visit open homes or secure off-the-plan/new build options. - Make an Offer
Negotiate via an agent or bid at auction. - Hire a Conveyancer
They handle title searches and legal checks. - Exchange Contracts
Once FIRB approval is confirmed, contracts are signed and the deposit is paid. - Settlement
Completion is usually 30–90 days later.
Making Your Move to Australia Simple and Stress-Free
Buying a home in Australia as a foreigner can feel daunting, but with careful planning and the right support, the process becomes far more manageable.
Once you’ve navigated the property side of things, choosing a reliable international removals company is the next essential step.
White & Company has decades of experience helping individuals and families relocate to Australia, offering tailored services such as full-load shipments, part-load options, and flexible storage solutions.
Our trusted Australian partners handle customs paperwork, clearance, unloading, and even unpacking, ensuring a smooth transition from start to finish.
Whether you’re moving a few boxes or an entire household, we make the logistics straightforward so you can focus on settling into your new life abroad.
To discuss your move, call our international team on 01489 854175 or request a quote online.
As proud members of the British Association of Removers (BAR), we adhere to strict industry standards for your peace of mind.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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