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Real Estate in Adelaide, Australia | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Adelaide, Australia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Aug 12, 2024

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Adelaide, Australia is around $400,000 AUD, while a nice 3 bedroom home is around $500,000 AUD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, and updated bathrooms. Some may also include a backyard or outdoor entertaining area. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership for properties in Adelaide. Expats should search for a home to buy in Adelaide by researching the local real estate market, attending open houses, and working with a real estate agent. The most desirable neighborhoods in Adelaide include North Adelaide, Unley, and Glenelg. These areas are known for their close proximity to the city center, excellent schools, and vibrant culture.

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How do I find a place to live in Adelaide?

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

"Adelaide offers a variety of housing options, so it can be a bit daunting to decide where to live. A great place to start is to consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. For example, if you need to stay within a specific budget, you can start by searching for rental housing. Adelaide has an abundance of rental properties available, ranging from studio apartments to entire houses. For those looking to buy property, Adelaide has plenty of suburbs to choose from, each offering a unique lifestyle experience. Popular suburbs to consider include Norwood, Unley, Glenelg, and Henley Beach. No matter what your budget or housing needs are, Adelaide has a wide variety of options to choose from," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Adelaide, Australia.

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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.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Adelaide?

"Expat homes and apartments in Adelaide are generally contemporary and comfortable. The buildings are well-maintained, often featuring modern design elements such as an open plan layout, plenty of natural light, and airy balcony spaces. Many apartments have access to swimming pools and other communal amenities, while most homes are within easy reach of public transport, shopping, and local attractions. Expat homes and apartments come in a variety of sizes and styles, ranging from chic inner city abodes to sprawling suburban estates," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Adelaide, Australia.

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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.

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 Adelaide?

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

"The cost of housing in Adelaide is generally quite reasonable, relative to other cities in Australia. Prices vary depending on the suburb and size of the property, but typically, a single-family home in Adelaide can cost anywhere from $275,000 to $500,000 AUD. Renters can expect to pay between $160 and $400 AUD per week, depending on the area and size of the property. Overall, living in Adelaide can offer a great quality of life at a reasonable cost," said one expat who made the move to Adelaide, Australia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Adelaide?

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

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Adelaide should be based on your financial and lifestyle goals. Buying a home may provide you with the sense of stability and financial security that renting does not, but it comes with large costs, such as a downpayment, closing costs, and maintenance fees. On the other hand, renting an Adelaide property may be a more short-term, cost efficient option and will save you from many of the costs associated with buying. Ultimately it is important to consider your own individual preferences and circumstances before deciding which route is best for you," said one person in Adelaide, Australia.

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

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

"When buying property in Adelaide, it is important to understand the local real estate laws, taxes, and regulations. It is important to research the local property prices and population demographics in order to ensure that the area in which you select is suitable for your needs. Before committing to a purchase, it is essential to consult with a trusted real estate professional who can provide advice on areas and properties that best suit your budget, lifestyle and investment needs. Additionally, it is recommended to get a building and pest inspection done to check for potential problems and ensure the property is in good condition. Lastly, it is important to obtain necessary legal advice from a solicitor to ensure the contract, purchase, and paperwork associated with the transaction is in order," said one in Adelaide.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Adelaide?

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

"Foreigners are allowed to own property in Adelaide, 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 an established property for their own use, but they must sell it when they leave the country. It is essential for foreign buyers to be aware of these regulations and seek professional advice to ensure compliance with Australian property ownership laws," explained one person living in Adelaide, Australia.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Adelaide 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:

"Many rental properties in Adelaide come with essential appliances such as a stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Additionally, a washer and dryer may also be included. Other popular appliances in Adelaide rentals are microwave ovens, ceiling fans, electric heaters, air conditioners, and filtered water systems," said one expat in Adelaide.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Adelaide:

We asked foreigners in Adelaide 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 Adelaide, often begin by researching the various neighborhoods and suburbs to determine which areas best suit their needs and preferences. 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 provide comprehensive information on available properties, including photos, descriptions, and rental or sale prices. 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 Adelaide. Expats may also attend open house inspections to view properties in person and get a feel for the neighborhood. This allows them to ask questions and gather more information about the property and its surroundings. Networking with other expats and locals can also be helpful in finding a suitable home, as they may have insider knowledge about upcoming vacancies or properties that have not yet been listed online. Finally, expats should familiarize themselves with Australian rental and property purchase regulations, as well as any specific requirements for foreign nationals, to ensure a smooth and successful home search in Adelaide," said one in Adelaide.

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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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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