How to Buy Property in Australasia – A Guide for Overseas Buyers

Buying property in Australasia offers overseas buyers access to some of the world’s most desirable lifestyle, residential, and tourism-driven real estate markets. From established systems in Australia and New Zealand to emerging island markets across the Pacific, understanding the local buying process is essential.

This guide explains how to buy property in Australasia, including ownership rules, buying steps, costs, and practical considerations for international buyers.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Australasia?

Foreign ownership rules vary by country and territory:

• Australia – Foreign buyers are generally restricted to new-build properties or approved developments and may require government approval.
• New Zealand – Overseas buyers face restrictions on existing residential property, with limited exemptions.
• Pacific Island Nations – Many markets operate under leasehold systems, long-term land leases, or local partnership structures.

It is essential to confirm ownership eligibility before committing to any purchase.

Step-by-Step: Buying Property in Australasia

1. Choose a country and location
   Decide between established urban markets, lifestyle regions, or tourism-led island destinations.
2. Understand ownership structures
   Freehold, leasehold, strata title, and company ownership structures differ widely across the region.
3. Set a realistic budget
   Include purchase price, taxes, legal fees, transfer costs, and ongoing ownership expenses.
4. Find suitable property
   Browse FSBO and agent-assisted listings on IPD to compare options and pricing.
5. Conduct legal checks
   Engage a local lawyer or conveyancer to review title, land rights, zoning, and usage restrictions.
6. Secure approval if required
   Some countries require prior approval for foreign buyers before contracts can proceed.
7. Exchange contracts and pay deposit
   Deposits typically range from 5–10%, depending on the jurisdiction.
8. Complete settlement
   Final payment is made, ownership or lease rights are transferred, and registration is completed.

Typical Costs When Buying Property

• Purchase price
• Legal and conveyancing fees
• Stamp duty or transfer taxes (where applicable)
• Government application or foreign buyer fees
• Survey and inspection costs
• Ongoing council rates, land lease fees, or strata charges

Financing Property in Australasia

Financing options vary across the region:

• Local bank mortgages (often with higher deposit requirements for overseas buyers)
• International or offshore financing
• Developer financing in resort or new-build projects
• Cash purchases, common in island markets

Currency movements and cross-border transfer costs should be factored into your strategy.

Buying Property for Investment vs Lifestyle

• Investment buyers often focus on rental demand, tourism performance, and resale liquidity.
• Lifestyle buyers prioritise location, climate, access, and long-term usability.

Some Australasia markets offer strong short-term rental income, while others are better suited to long-term holding.

Risks and Practical Considerations

• Restrictions on resale to foreign buyers
• Leasehold expiry terms in island nations
• Natural hazard exposure in coastal regions
• Local property management availability
• Changing foreign ownership regulations

Using IPD to Buy Property in Australasia

International Property Directory connects buyers with:

• FSBO and agent-assisted listings
• Country-specific property guides
• Market insights and regional data
• Direct contact with property owners and agents

Use IPD to research locations, compare property types, and begin your buying journey with clarity.

Australasia Property Resources

• Australasia Property Index
• How to Rent Property in Australasia
• How to Sell Property in Australasia
• Australasia Property Investment Insights
• Australasia Property Market Data