An Expat Talks about Moving to Sydney, Australia

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Sydney

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

Wish I had brought good shoes, kids' cotton clothing and rolls of Bounty! Should've left behind the heavy winter coats.

William Russell
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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.

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 advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Look around a lot before you rent because the market is not very efficient. Most landlords are unwilling to make any improvements unless it is at the very high end of the market.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

We live in a house and it's typical for most expats. Most live in close-in suburbs on the lower North Shore.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

Neighborhood by walking around in it. Looked through the Sydney Morning Herald website for homes; talked to real estate agents.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Housing is more expensive here. They vary a lot but in this area you would pay A$1400-A$1600 for a clean family home. O/w most would be rather shabby.