Unfortunately in Australia you have to pay stamp duty on the house you purchase, its yet another way for the govt to earn money off your personal sales/purchases. (you have to pay duty on cars here too) The total obviously depends on how much you spend.

There is however a scheme set up here for first home buyer which Kiwis are eligible for. The first home owners grant is a $7000 payment towards your first home purchase. You are eligible for this even if you have owned outside of Nz. There is also a stamp duty exemption for those who are purchasing their first home (if you have owned in Nz you may not be eligible for this, speak to your mortgage broker) the amount depends on the purchase amount.

A friend of mine Tania, works here on the coast for Elite Realty, she is wonderful and can help you if you are looking for a property once you arrive. Im sure she would be happy to help you with any general questions you have too. Her cell is 0409974150, or you can email her on tania@eliterealty.com.au

I was also lucky enough to deal with a fantastic woman when we were looking at moving up north, Laura Cooper, she works for Remax in the areas of Caboolture, Morayfield, Narangba and anywhere else close by, Here is a snippet from her:

"I have no idea what to say as far as promoting myself!! I am not the type that thinks realestate is brain surgery.  I believe homes sell themselves and our jobs as agents is to try to help people find the home of their choice – not what we want to sell.  I do take my responsibility seriously as I know that a home is what we all go to work to pay for and the decision cannot be made lightly. Its not the same as buying a couch. If you change your mind, it can cost you any up to $30k to move without saying anything about the stress"
So if you are looking at buying in that area I suggest giving her a call 0414739546, or email lcooper@remaxultimate.com.au
She is very down to earth and happy to help.


When renting, you will need references, normally 3, if you have never rented before I would suggested providing a bank statement if you have savings to prove you can cover rent if you dont find a job immediately. A couple of character references may help too from an old boss etc. You will need bond which is usually 4 weeks rent, and two weeks rent in advance. Here is a link to the tenancy website: http://www.rta.qld.gov.au/tenancy_info_section.cfm