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Hi, This is a first post, so I apologise to any moderators if I transgress any forum rules (I have also posted this on the NT board). We are dual nationals who have been in Australia since 1999 and living in the Top End since 2002. We have a rural property on 23 acres of land about 40kms south of Darwin. The property was previously a mango orchard and we bought it with the express intention of revegetating and restoring the property, and after fifteen years of hard work we have made significant achievements. Due to external circumstances we have to move back to the UK. Although the house is on the market for sale we are also exploring the possibility of renting; however, this is a unique and very special piece of land and we are seeking potential 'tenants' who will both appreciate the flora and fauna and look after both the house and the land. Sadly, the average Australian renter (in the NT at least) does not have the best reputation. Living here we can guarantee you will have incredible experiences of unique plants and animals without having to travel to a tourist haunt. Creatures we share the land with include: agile wallabies, possums, bandicoots, hopping mice, over a hundred species of birds, frogs, native toads, different snake species including pythons over 3m long. And if you want you can spy on both fresh and salt water crocodiles. The house has two airconned bedrooms, a renovated kitchen, a large bathroom, laundry and verandahs; there is solar hot water, on grid solar and a solar bore, so utilities bills are minimal. We would be happy to leave some furniture as required. We would expect you to do some mowing when required, spray weeds when needed and manage and tidy the garden. You will also need to show some initiative as occasional problems arise. More than anything you will need to love, respect and appreciate nature. Rent is negotiable but we are looking to cover our costs and would be using a property agent as a local point of contact. Available from September onwards. We would prefer a 6 to 12 month commitment. This is a great opportunity for a couple looking for a new adventure. Darwin has lots of employment possibilities and is often seen as a good place to advance one's career. You can find out more about the property at landsale.treehugger.com.au and more about the flora and fauna at treehugger.com.au If you need any further information please send a PM.

Just curious to know who bought property and who rented property when they first arrived in Australia after receiving their visa approval? How did you find your property? Did you do your searching from overseas who when you arrived in Australia? Thank you.

Since I will arrived soon in SA, my pals in Canada told me it is better to rent a car for months or even years. you can always enjoy the new models and paid less compared with buying a new auto. it that true? btw which model is the most popular one for a three-ppl family? cheers.

Hello everyone, I am writing because I would like to know if those who already worked at fantastic framing can give me a testimony of what they did. Also maybe you can give me more details about the accommodation they give? Am I taking risks in this company ? This company seems to have the "dream job" but I am not sure. Thanks for your answers

If you're planning to move to Australia permanently and need a place to stay, here are some things you need to know before moving. Here some points of major consideration when looking for a living space when you arrive in Australia: 1) Cost of accommodation (Big City vs Small City. CBD vs Outer suburbs. Short Term Rentals vs Shared Rentals) 2) Job availability and distance from work place - Assuming you don't have a job yet you will not really know which suburb or city you may get a job in, so it would be quite difficult to decide at the onset as to which suburb you will eventually live in. Besides whilst job hunting you may prefer to live close to the CBD where most of the offices are in order to save on transport costs. 3) Support system - If you have friends or family, it is but natural that you will (at least initially) live in the vicinity of this support group. 4) Means of Travel - Big cities have excellent public transport but if you were to move to a regional city like Townsville it becomes quite challenging without a car. Which also means that you need to apply for a licence within the first few months of landing. 5) Size of family and amount of luggage - Some may arrive singly and with just a suitcase whereas others will arrive as a family and be bringing all the household goods when arriving. The biggest challenge by far when you are looking for your first rental will be that you do not have any rental history in Australia. Additionally, you may not have ample proof or residence (Australian Driver's Licence, Electricity Bill etc.) to meet the 100 point test. Here is my suggestion: MOVE INTO TEMPORARY RENTAL ACCOMMODATION In most cases when you first arrive you will have to live in some form of temporary accommodation until you figure your next move or at least until you get some kind of short term rental (Unless you are lucky to be put up with a friend or a family member). 1) Rentality (www.rentality.com.au) - a online community that provides a range of temporary accommodation for rent. The great part of this arrangement is that you deal directly with the owner, you can book immediately, the rates are more affordable than short-term rentals and properties listed go through a rigorous validation process to ensure no fraudulent properties are listed. Other similar sites are: https://www.housetrip.com/ https://www.roomorama.com/ https://www.homeaway.com.au/ https://www.vrbo.com/ https://Wimdu.com.au/ https://www.airbnb.com/ 2) Service apartments – This is the more expensive but easier option. Bookings can be made before you even arrive. When deciding on location, it is recommended that you select a place close to public transport and as close to city as possible to save on daily commuting costs to city. 3) Shared accommodation - A cheaper alternative, especially for single or couple migrants. Depending on your circumstances, you might find it easier to apply to share accommodation, rather than renting a house or apartment on your own. Check out following websites: Flatmates Flatmate Finders 4) Rooms to rent are sometimes advertised on notice boards in local shops, post offices and libraries or on the following websites: Gumtree Craiglist When looking for accommodation through Flatmates, Gumtree and Craiglist be careful of fraudulent listings. Do not ever pay upfront to the homeowner in order to secure a booking on Flatmates, Gumtree and Craiglist\. A lot of people have been cheated through this. Inspect the home first, meet the homeowner, then pay them (NEVER PAY IN CASH as there would be no evidence you paid the homeowner). If you aren't able to inspect the home, then I recommend using my recommendations in Point 1 and Point 2. LONG TERM RENTAL Once you are ready to look for a long-term rental you can check out the following top Property Websites in Australia: Realestate Domain

Hi All, We are moving to Melbourne in October - arranged by my employer - and I'm trying to get organised well in advance for rental accommodation. We are looking at living in the Eastern outer suburbs but wont settle on an area straight away until we have been to them in person. We have 2 children so we want to be settled in a home as soon as possible so that schools can be arranged. My questions are: 1. What paperwork/references will we need to provide to the letting agents? 2. What do you normally have to put down upfront before renting (fees? deposit? - what are the deposit rules? (in UK its normally 1.5 x monthly rent in deposit)) 3. Is the rental market aggressively competitive? Will we struggle finding a home? I have looked online and there seem to be lots of properties for rent so I am hoping its not too bad! 4. How secure is renting? We have had such a nightmare in the UK renting where we've had to move every 2 years with little notice due to the landlords change in circumstances (selling the house, giving it to their own children, wanting to massively increase the rent or do renovation while we are living there)? We want to feel we can settle in a home without the constant threat of having to move. Many thanks in advance. ?

Hi there, It seems rent in paid 2 weeks in advance in NSW. Does that mean that for the last 2 weeks at the end of my tenancy I am not paying rent ? Thanks

Hi, This is a first post, so I apologise to any moderators if I transgress any forum rules (I have also posted this on the NT board). We are dual nationals who have been in Australia since 1999 and living in the Top End since 2002. We have a rural property on 23 acres of land about 40kms south of Darwin. The property was previously a mango orchard and we bought it with the express intention of revegetating and restoring the property, and after fifteen years of hard work we have made significant achievements. Due to external circumstances we have to move back to the UK. Although the house is on the market for sale we are also exploring the possibility of renting; however, this is a unique and very special piece of land and we are seeking potential 'tenants' who will both appreciate the flora and fauna and look after both the house and the land. Sadly, the average Australian renter (in the NT at least) does not have the best reputation. Living here we can guarantee you will have incredible experiences of unique plants and animals without having to travel to a tourist haunt. Creatures we share the land with include: agile wallabies, possums, bandicoots, hopping mice, over a hundred species of birds, frogs, native toads, different snake species including pythons over 3m long. And if you want you can spy on both fresh and salt water crocodiles. The house has two airconned bedrooms, a renovated kitchen, a large bathroom, laundry and verandahs; there is solar hot water, on grid solar and a solar bore, so utilities bills are minimal. We would be happy to leave some furniture as required. We would expect you to do some mowing when required, spray weeds when needed and manage and tidy the garden. You will also need to show some initiative as occasional problems arise. More than anything you will need to love, respect and appreciate nature. Rent is negotiable but we are looking to cover our costs and would be using a property agent as a local point of contact. Available from September onwards. We would prefer a 6 to 12 month commitment. This is a great opportunity for a couple looking for a new adventure. Darwin has lots of employment possibilities and is often seen as a good place to advance one's career. You can find out more about the property at landsale.treehugger.com.au and more about the flora and fauna at treehugger.com.au If you need any further information please send a PM.

Hi Everyone, I will be arriving in Sydney soon, i'm nervous and excited. I would prefer renting after I arrive, however I don't have a job lined up and will also be searching once I get there. I was thinking of staying in hostel whilst I found a job or found rented accommodation. Am i doing the right thing? any other ideas? Are there any websites or advice you could give me to obtain suitable rent (I know of domain and realestate), bearing in mind I don't have a job and will also be looking. As i will be new to the city, will also be looking to make new friends, any recommendations? Many thanks

77 Drayton Terrace Wynnum Go thorough Agent for viewing. Available from 20th April. Call Harcourts on 07 3902 2888 http://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-wynnum-407885617 Immaculate Family Home on Quiet Street A home that offers comfort, convenience and lifestyle presents itself for occupancy at an undoubtedly fantastic price. 4 double bedrooms, 2 living rooms, massive parents retreat and beautiful entertaining deck. - The kitchen features high quality appliances, an abundance of storage as well as dishwasher - Entertainers deck flows from the spacious upstairs dining and lounge areas, capturing beautiful bay breezes - Separate lounge/teenage retreat downstairs - The home is fitted with ducted air conditioning offering a multitude of comfort choices - The master is fitted with large walk in robe and complimented with spacious en-suite - All remaining bedrooms are double in size and have built in robes - With only a small grassed area, the yard offers greenery for view, soft blades for the kids feet and convenience that you don't have to spend all Sunday mowing! Unfortunately no pets or smokers. General Features Property Type:House Bedrooms:4 Bathrooms:3 Bond:$2,700 Indoor Features Ensuite:1 Air Conditioning Outdoor Features Garage Spaces:2 Other Features Property Type: House Garaging / carparking: Internal access, Double lock-up

I'm breaking my lease with 4.5 months remaining. The agency has agreed for someone to take over the remaining lease period. The unit is an unfurnished studio current renting at $400.00 / week. Very convenient, less than 1 minute walk to Central Station. Less than 20 minutes walk to the CBD. You can search for the unit at the realestate site, and let me know if you are interested.

Hi all I will be moving to Perth in September 2014 with my OH and we are looking to rent in the Fremantle area when we arrive. We are open to the idea of renting a room in a house or renting our own space (furnished is preferred). I know its a few months off but if anyone lives in or around Fremantle and has a place to rent, or knows of anyone who does can you get in touch. Thanks

Currently, we are living in Taringa and now we are looking for a long-term rental close to Brisbane or surrounding areas. Preferably 2 bed. If anyone knows where we can find one, please leave a reply. Thank you.:notworthy:

Hi me and my boyfriend are applying for our working holiday visa soon and looking to arrive October in Sydney (we are 19 & 18... (if thats relevant?)) I was wondering if it will be possible for us to rent an apartment if we only have a 417 working holiday visa? Also is it necessary for us to book an open return ticket? We wanted to just buy one way tickets to oz, and then travel Asia when our visa expires. If you have any other information that you have about ANYTHING on moving to oz that would be great! I've tried reading as much info possible but don't want to miss out anything important- its starting to give me a headache :huh: Thanks!

Hi, We are offering our flat to rent due to a moving overseas (we are breaking our lease). It's a big duplex located near to tram and buses (the city is 15 min away) and Glenelg Jetty road (lots of shops and supermarket). In the first floor you'll find the living room, dining room, kitchen and the laundry (with a second toilet). Upstairs you'll find 2 bedrooms with built-in-robe and the bathroom. One of the bedroom is very spacious (you can easily fit 2 king size bed) and the second one is slightly smaller (you can fit a queen size bed and still have space). In the bathroom there is shower, a bathtub, toilet, and a sink with a large cupboard (lot of storage). The flat can be furnished (we are selling our furnitures). It will be available the 2nd of april for a 6 or 12 months lease with Mc Cammon real estate agency. If you are interested and want to visit it feel free to contact us on 0439 901 976 ! ps : we are also selling all our furnitures

My wife and I are looking to move to Gold Coast as she is keen to study Early Years Education/Pre School Education with a view to gaining employment and sponsorship when she has completed her studies. She has been offered a place and we now have to apply for the Visas. We have looked at various areas to move to (the College is in Southport) and we are keen to hear from anyone who lives there and those who have made the move on a student visa. We will be looking to rent a 2 bedroom property but I can see some people have had issues in securing a property, is there anything we can bring form the UK to assist or any other advice? Naturally, I am apprehensive about the move on a student visa so anything to help put me at ease is also welcome!

Break Lease, lease ends July 2014 Inner West Sydney. Located on Burwood Road, in central area with many restaurants, parks and shopping facilities. Easy access to all public transport. 15 minutes train ride to Sydney CBD and 15 minute bus ride to Concord hospital. Perfect for single professional or couple. King size bed, bed side units, fitted mirrored wardrobes, large balcony, computer desk, blinds, microwave, utility room, open plan kitchen/lounge, dining table/chairs, lots of storage space, TV unit, oven, large fridge freezer, washing machine and dryer, fresh carpets, large bathroom with bath and separate shower cubicle, newly tiled. Fresh paint and carpets/flooring throughout. Large leather lounges and coffee table. Gym equipment/bench can also be left for new tenant. Underground secure parking with own car port and swipe card access to building, parking and elevators. Spacious and secure with light airy feel. Quiet area, well kept clean property. Personal circumstances have resulted in me regrettably having to end tenancy early. New tenant would take over lease and pay $1700 bond to real estate agent. Application very straight forward, just ID required and proof of income. Available now, move in date is negotiable but preferably sooner than later. No pets allowed. Contact anytime to arrange viewing. i dont know if the pictures uploaded but the furniture is now different in the property, pics are to give idea of layout and condition. Thanks inside2.bmp inside.bmp inside2.bmp inside.bmp

RP Data latest Spring Buyer’s Guide was released this week, providing an overview of key housing market statistics for every suburb that has recorded at least ten house or units sales over the past year nationally. The full report including suburb and council level tables is available for download at www.myrp.com.au/springbuyersguide. One of the interesting statistics that flows from the Guide is the percentage of suburbs across each capital city that might be considered affordable. The maps below highlight the suburbs with a median house or unit value under $300,000 and $500,000. The trends come as no surprise; it is typically the outer fringe suburbs where the most affordable housing can be found. What is a little surprising is the proportion of suburbs across each capital city where the median value of a house is less than $300,000 or $500,000. While Australia’s most affordable capital city, Hobart, shows the highest proportion (41.3% of all suburbs have median house value under $300,000), it is Brisbane that has the second highest proportion at 15.2% followed by Adelaide at 14.4%. The depth and diversity of Brisbane suburbs for affordable housing is quite remarkable considering this is the nation’s third largest capital city. The vast majority (60% or 30 individual suburbs) of these affordable suburbs can be found within the Ipswich council region which is west of the Brisbane local government area. 26% (13 suburbs) of the most affordable Brisbane suburbs are located within the Logan council region while only 3 each are in the Redland and Moreton council regions and just one (Inala) is located within the Brisbane council area. Another surprise is that the Melbourne metro area has a slightly lower proportion of very affordable suburbs (ie <$300,000 median house value) than Sydney. Only 2.0% of Melbourne suburbs have a median house value below $300,000 while Sydney has recorded 2.5% of suburbs with a median house value lower than $300,000. Perth is even lower at just 1.1% demonstrating a severe lack of depth in the very affordable housing market. There is not a single suburb across Canberra where the median house value is less than $300,000. The maps below show the geography of affordability across the capital cities and of course, the full Spring Buyer’s Guide which is available to download has great deal more detail for every suburb around the nation.

We are a couple, no kids (yet) and no car. We currently live in CBD in a studio. One of us work in Melbourne CBD. We would like to move out of CBD. Our max rent budget is $280pw and we are looking for a 1br apartment, but not a studio. I am looking for a safe suburb with either tram or bus connectivity to CBD. Bicycling to CBD is also an option. Any suggestions?

Hi, just wondering if any one knows how property managers assess affordability for rental property applicants? ie 20% of weekly net income etc?

Hi, I am breaking lease on my 4 x 2 house in Secret Harbour, WA on 2nd August 2013. Its in a nice location right by Comet Bay Primary School, which has a lovely reputation. If you are interested in the details, please let me know. Thanks!!

Hi all, Travelling alone - I'll be in the Gold Coast from late June staying with family, then flying down to Melbourne some time before the 8th July when I start a new job. I was planning to arrive in Melbourne around 4 or 5 days before (around the 3rd July) and stay in a backpackers for a couple of days while I look for a short term let. I was thinking about renting short term, in a fully furnished place, with bills included for up to 3 months until I settled down a little. I will be bringing 2 suitcases with me - that's it! I've seen some pretty good studio flats in between the $350 - $400 range. I've been looking around the St Kilda area, as that's quite close to South Melbourne - where my new job is. Are there any 'gotchas' that I should look out for? What should I bring out with me to secure a let? (I have my last 2 renting references) I assume I can move in pretty quick (like a couple of days) from when I've seen the property? Do these places have Internet access generally? Does this sound like a good plan?! Many thanks in advance!

Hey Me and my wife will be arriving in Melbourne at July 10th (PR visa) and we are looking for a place to call home. We prefer to live in the suburbs around Melbourne CBD, we don't mind to rend one badroom / studio apt. We are a very responsible and clean couple, both working (and will continue working, when we will arrive) without kids or pets. We can pay 250 - 300$ per week (not including bills). Please feel free to contact me if you have or know about a place to stay, either for long term or short term. we will really appreciate the help. Thanks. Galia & Adir

Hi, we are moving to Sydney and plan to rent somewhere small, what other charges are there besides rent?...will I pay council tax or equivalent like I do here in uk?..and will I pay water rates or not? As even scotland and England have differences there. Just want to know how much we really need to budget for in terms of paying for rented accommodation. Real estate websites don't mention extra rates.....any info would be appreciated...thanks xx

Hello, we are moving to Australia from UK in July. Just got a few questions that I'm hoping to get some help on! At the moment it is likely we are moving having secured full time permanent employment for my partner in Australia. 1. What paper work do we need to rent? He won't be able to show pay slips of new salary so is job offer letter sufficient? 2. We would like to eventually buy a property but in same suburb so we don't have to uproot kids into a new school. In people's experience is renting cheaper or more pricey than buying in same suburb, same size house etc. I don't want to become accustomed to a particular area if buying there in the future is unrealistic. 3. Would people recommend a short term let for a few months whilst sussing out areas or do people think a month in serviced apartment type thing or holiday accommodation gives you enough time to work things out. We need to be moved into our new neighbourhood pretty quickly as I'll need to enrol my oldest to start at primary school. I understand VIC unlike NSW are not obliged to provide a school place in their catchment area and I want to avoid having to traipse across suburbs on public transport to school every morning. Is a month enough time though!? 4. What does a long term lease mean in Australia? Don't want to end up renting something which owner wants to sell within 6 months. Always a risk though I suppose. 5. What are the usual notice periods? 6. Can anyone recommend good place to live with 2 kids aged 4 and 2 if other half working in Mount Waverley and relying on public transport initially. thanks for taking the time to read and even more thanks if you can help me out! Liz