Real Estate Investment in Australia

[David Rutledge]

Hi Everyone,

I have just recently completed my first step into the RE investment world by buying two properties as long term holds. A SFR in Charlotte and a duplex in Indianapolis. I was a complete novice six months ago and I have used BP as my main guide and resource to learn about the best way to get involved in the business. I have used the guidance and advise from many people on these forums, the podcasts and the articles to help direct me to make smart buys that will hopefully assist to by long term goals of building wealth through real estate.

Using the 1% and 50% rules have really helped me understand what I should be looking for in an investment market and property and I am really happy with the purchases I have made. I am planning to make another purchase in about six months.

I live in the US now but I am originally from Australia. My sister has saved up some money and is interested in also investing in RE but back home in the Australian market.

I have researched a ton of markets and feel that I have a pretty good idea of what is available in my areas of interest in the states but I have no idea at all what the market and conditions are like in Australia.

I am wondering if any members may be familiar with the Australian market and be able to provide me with some guidance.

As I mentioned when I was looking for property here I had strict rules about finding immediate positive cash flow and followed rules of thumb like the 1% and 50% rule.

I am not even sure if that is possible in Australia. I want to help my sister get involved in RE investment but I am not sure if the strategies and skills I have learned that I believe can work for me here in the US will work in Australia. I would love to get some insight from others in the know.

My sister lives in Sydney but is originally from the Wollongong/South Coast area so that would probably be the best place to start for her but if the numbers do not work there then she is open to exploring other markets. She is looking at a buy and hold with positive cash flow and medium-long term appreciation potential 

Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much for your time.

David