Preferred Real Estate

Boasting a relatively low cost of living and nice warm climate, Australia see’s more and more foreign investors every year investing in both commercial and residential properties and the country has recently be voted number one for surviving the recession.

The Australian Government rules that only permanent residents in the country can buy real estate. Any foreigner wishing to invest must first obtain permission from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB). This is a fairly easy process but can take some time to process.

In general purchasing costs are roughly 5% of the sale price but this can vary from state to state. Varying as to where the property is located and also the value of the property these costs also include mortgage application fees (if applicable), stamp duty, legal fees’ and taxes.

Again depending on what state you decide to invest in, the holding deposit required by a seller is normally 10% of the asking price. The balance is then payable upon signing of the sale contracts. Once you have put down a deposit to hold the property you are obligated by law to have insurance. This is generally a cover note and then full insurance upon completion.