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Real Estate in Melbourne, Australia | Expat Exchange
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Centre Place in Melbourne

Real Estate in Melbourne

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 11, 2024

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Melbourne, Australia is around $600,000 AUD, while a nice 3 bedroom home is around $800,000 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 Melbourne. An expat looking to buy a home in Melbourne 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 Melbourne include South Yarra, Carlton, and Fitzroy. These areas are known for their vibrant culture, excellent restaurants, and close proximity to the city center.

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How do I find a place to live in Melbourne?

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

"There are many ways to find a place to live in Melbourne. One of the most convenient ways to search for housing is online. Websites such as Domain, Realestate.com.au, Rent.com.au, and Gumtree all have a wide variety of rental housing available in Melbourne. Additionally, many local newspapers, as well as community and notice boards, may also advertise rental properties in the area. It can also be helpful to seek the advice of a rental agent, who may have more specialized knowledge and resources to help you find the right place," explained one expat living in Melbourne, Australia, Australia.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Melbourne?

"Expat homes and apartments in Melbourne are often located in modern high-rise buildings with easy access to public transport and the city centre. Most homes come with fully functional kitchens and have plenty of natural light. Expats can find modern furniture for their homes in abundance and many apartments feature balconies with amazing views. Expat homes often come with updated appliances and amenities such as air conditioning and heating, as well as wireless internet. With so much on offer, Melbourne can be a great city for an expat looking for a comfortable place to live," remarked one member in Melbourne, Australia.

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What is the average cost of housing in Melbourne?

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

"Much higher housing costs here. Figure around $1000 per week. It will obviously be less if you don't need such a big place," explained one person living in Melbourne, Australia.

"The average cost of housing in Melbourne is estimated to be between $550 and $650 per week for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre. Renting in the surrounding areas of the city can range from $400 to $550 per week, depending on the type and size of the property," said one expat in Melbourne, Australia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Melbourne?

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

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Melbourne, it is important to consider the amount of time one intends to stay in the city, their budget and other lifestyle preferences. Buying a home is a good option if the length of stay is more than five years, and one has access to the necessary finances. Buying a house in Melbourne requires a large initial investment, but owning a home can be a good long-term investment, as the value of property in the city is likely to appreciate over time. Alternatively, renting a home may be a better option for shorter-term stays, or if the initial costs are too high. Renting a home in Melbourne can be cheaper than buying and is also a viable short-term solution as the rental prices in the city can be flexible depending on the duration of the lease. Renters also have more flexibility in terms of where they live and can often move more quickly than those who own a home and need to sell it before they move," explained one expat living in Melbourne, Australia, Australia.

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

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

"When buying property in Melbourne, 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 cost of living in the area, as well as the potential for capital growth. It is also important to consider the potential for rental income, as well as the potential for future development. 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," said one expat in Melbourne.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Melbourne?

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

"Foreigners are allowed to own property in Melbourne, 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 supply through foreign investment. 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 investors may be subject to additional taxes and fees, such as the Foreign Purchaser Additional Duty," said one foreigner living in Melbourne, Australia.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Melbourne 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 Melbourne typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Some properties may also include air conditioning, a microwave, and other small appliances," explained one expat in Melbourne.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Melbourne:

We asked foreigners in Melbourne 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 Melbourne 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 and domain.com.au, to find available homes for rent or purchase. These websites allow users to filter their search based on criteria such as price, property type, 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 home in Melbourne. 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. Expats can join local community groups, attend events, or participate in online forums to connect with others who have gone through the process of finding a home in Melbourne," explained one expat in Melbourne.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat 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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