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Real Estate in Brisbane, Australia | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Streets beach in Southbank Brisbane, Australia

Real Estate in Brisbane, Australia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 04, 2024

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Brisbane, Australia is around $500,000 AUD, while a nice 3 bedroom home is around $650,000 AUD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, and updated bathrooms. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership for properties in Brisbane. An expat looking to buy a home in Brisbane should begin by researching the local market and neighborhoods. They should also consider their budget and lifestyle needs when searching for a home. The most desirable neighborhoods in Brisbane include New Farm, Paddington, and West End. These areas offer a variety of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, parks, and shopping.

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How do I find a place to live in Brisbane?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One way to find an appropriate place to live in Brisbane is to search the internet for listings of available properties. You can find a variety of places, such as apartments, houses, and townhouses. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents for help in finding the perfect property for you. To narrow your search, you can look for listings in the areas and neighborhoods that suit your lifestyle and budget. Additionally, using online resources such as rental websites, newspapers, and social media can be a great way to find available places. You can also join local networks and forums where you can learn information that can help you find the right place to call home," said one expat in Brisbane, Australia.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Brisbane?

"Expat homes and apartments in Brisbane often have a modern look and feel, with plenty of natural light and lots of open space. Many offer stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. They often come fully furnished and equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, swimming pools, and private outdoor areas. Expat homes and apartments in Brisbane are typically also within easy reach of shops, restaurants, and other attractions," said one person in Brisbane, Australia.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What is the average cost of housing in Brisbane?

If you are thinking about moving to Brisbane, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Brisbane, varies based on location, condition, and other factors, but the average cost of housing can generally be considered to be moderately priced. Depending on the exact location and type of property, monthly rents can range from affordable to slightly expensive. Purchasing a home can also vary greatly in cost, from a few hundred thousand to well over a million dollars in more affluent areas," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Brisbane, Australia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Brisbane?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Brisbane, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether to buy or rent a home in Brisbane is a big decision that should be made carefully. Consider the cost of buying and the ongoing costs of ownership including maintenance and other fees. Think also about the commitment of buying versus the flexibility of renting, both in relation to the length of the tenancy and the ability to easily move to another location if desired. Ultimately, you should make the decision based on budgeting, needs and lifestyle," explained one person living in Brisbane, Australia, Australia.

What do I need to know when buying property in Brisbane?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Brisbane, they said:

"When buying property in Brisbane, it is important to research the local market and understand the current trends. It is also important to consider the location of the property, as well as the amenities and services available in the area. It is also important to consider the potential for capital growth and rental returns. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the cost of utilities, taxes, and insurance. It is also important to consider the availability of public transport, as well as the proximity to schools, shops, and other amenities. Finally, it is important to seek professional advice from a qualified real estate agent or lawyer to ensure that the purchase is in line with your goals and objectives," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Brisbane.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Brisbane?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Brisbane, they said...

"Foreigners are allowed to own property in Brisbane, but there are certain restrictions and requirements they must meet. Non-residents must obtain approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) before purchasing a property. Generally, foreign buyers are only allowed to purchase new properties or vacant land for development, as the Australian government aims to increase housing stock for its citizens. Temporary residents can buy one established dwelling to use as their residence while living in Australia, but they must sell it once they leave the country. Additionally, foreign-owned companies can purchase property for their Australian-based staff, but they must also obtain FIRB approval," explained one foreigner living in Brisbane, Australia.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Brisbane what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Brisbane typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Some properties may also include air conditioning, a microwave, and other small appliances," said one person in Brisbane.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Brisbane:

We asked foreigners in Brisbane what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats searching for homes in Brisbane often begin by researching the various neighborhoods and suburbs to determine which areas best suit their lifestyle and budget. They may consult online resources, such as real estate websites, forums, and social media groups, to gather information and seek advice from fellow expats. Once they have identified their preferred areas, expats typically browse online property listings on popular real estate websites, such as realestate.com.au, domain.com.au, and rent.com.au. These websites allow users to filter their search based on criteria such as location, property type, price range, and number of bedrooms. In addition to online resources, expats may also seek the assistance of local real estate agents who have experience working with international clients. These agents can provide valuable insights into the local property market and help expats navigate the process of finding and securing a rental or purchase. Expats may also attend open house inspections to view properties in person and get a feel for the neighborhood. This can be particularly helpful for those who are unfamiliar with the area and want to ensure they are making an informed decision. Finally, networking with other expats and locals can be a valuable way to discover off-market properties or receive recommendations for reputable real estate agents and property managers. Joining expat communities, attending social events, and participating in online forums can help expats expand their network and increase their chances of finding the perfect home in Brisbane," said one foreigner living in Brisbane, Australia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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Streets beach in Southbank Brisbane, Australia

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