How to buy a house in Perth?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Australia Property Pack

Yes, the analysis of Perth's property market is included in our pack

Who is the author of this content?

BAMBOOROUTES

A team specialized in real estate investing in APAC countries (Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, etc.).

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Perth. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At BambooRoutes, we explore the Australian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Perth, Sydney, and Melbourne. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

Is it actually easy to buy a house in Perth compared to Western countries?

Buying a house in Perth as a foreigner is moderately restrictive compared to many Western countries like Canada or the UK.

Australia currently enforces a temporary ban on foreign buyers purchasing established (resale) dwellings from April 2025 through March 2027, which significantly limits options compared to countries where foreigners can freely buy any residential property. This restriction means you can only purchase new dwellings, off-the-plan properties, or vacant land designated for development.

The Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval requirement adds another layer of complexity not found in many Western markets. Unlike countries such as Germany or France where property purchases are straightforward for foreign nationals, Australia requires government approval for almost all foreign property investments, with application fees ranging from AUD 14,100 to over AUD 150,000 depending on property value.

Additionally, foreign buyers face higher stamp duty rates with surcharges up to 7% above standard rates, and annual land tax surcharges that local buyers don't encounter. These additional costs make Perth property purchases significantly more expensive for foreigners than equivalent transactions in markets like New Zealand or most European countries.

However, the legal framework provides strong buyer protections and the settlement process is well-regulated, offering more security than property markets in some emerging economies.

What types of properties can foreigners buy and are there any restrictions?

As of September 2025, foreign buyers in Perth can only purchase specific property types due to current Australian regulations.

New dwellings are permitted, including brand-new houses in new developments, apartments in new complexes, and off-the-plan properties that have never been occupied. These properties must be genuinely new construction or never previously lived in to qualify for foreign purchase. Vacant land is also available for foreign buyers, but comes with a mandatory requirement to commence development within four years of purchase.

Established or "resale" properties are currently banned for foreign buyers under the temporary restriction in place until March 2027. This includes existing houses, previously occupied apartments, and any residential property that has been lived in before. The only exceptions are properties designated for redevelopment that will increase housing supply, though these require special approval and demonstration of housing stock benefits.

All eligible property purchases by foreigners require Foreign Investment Review Board approval before contract signing. Commercial properties, hotel investments, and industrial real estate fall under different regulations but are outside the scope of residential property rules.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

Can buying a house in Perth lead to residency or citizenship in Australia?

Purchasing property in Perth does not provide any direct pathway to Australian residency or citizenship.

Australia does not operate a "golden visa" or citizenship-by-investment program tied to real estate purchases. Property ownership alone grants no immigration benefits, temporary or permanent residence rights, or citizenship eligibility. This differs significantly from countries like Portugal, Greece, or Turkey that offer residency programs linked to property investment thresholds.

Investment-based visas in Australia require active business management and substantial ongoing investment commitments beyond simple property ownership. The Business Innovation and Investment visa categories demand active participation in business operations, not passive real estate investment. These visas typically require investments of AUD 1.5 million to AUD 15 million in qualifying business activities.

Property ownership may support other visa applications by demonstrating ties to Australia, but it provides no independent immigration benefits. Foreigners who purchase property in Perth remain subject to standard tourist visa conditions and cannot use property ownership to extend stays or gain work rights.

Anyone considering property purchase as an immigration strategy should separate these goals entirely and pursue appropriate visa pathways through skilled migration, family reunification, or business programs independent of property investment.

What are the step-by-step stages of the home-buying process in Perth?

The Perth home-buying process for foreigners follows a structured sequence with mandatory government approval as the critical first step.

Stage	Key Actions	Timeline
1. FIRB Approval	Submit application with property details and fees	4-6 weeks processing
2. Budget & Finance	Set budget, secure mortgage pre-approval if needed	2-4 weeks
3. Property Search	Research eligible new developments and locations	Ongoing
4. Agent Engagement	Select licensed real estate agent	1-2 days
5. Property Selection	Attend viewings, make property choice	1-4 weeks
6. Offer & Contract	Submit formal offer, sign contract	1-7 days negotiation
7. Due Diligence	Building inspections, title searches, legal checks	1-2 weeks
8. Settlement Preparation	Appoint conveyancer, prepare final documents	2-4 weeks
9. Settlement	Final payment, title transfer completion	Settlement day

The entire process typically takes 8-16 weeks from initial FIRB application to final settlement, though this can extend if financing or approval complications arise. Each stage requires careful documentation and professional guidance to ensure compliance with Australian property laws.

What documents and approvals are mandatory, and which ones are optional?

Foreign property buyers in Perth must obtain specific mandatory documents and approvals before completing any purchase.

FIRB approval is absolutely mandatory and must be secured before signing any contract of sale. This requires submitting detailed application forms, property information, proof of funds, valid identification documents, and the substantial application fee. The approval is property-specific and cannot be transferred between different properties or purchases.

Proof of funds or finance approval is required to demonstrate purchase capability, whether buying with cash or obtaining a mortgage. Valid passport and identification documents are mandatory for all legal processes, along with the signed contract of sale and all conveyancing settlement documents prepared by legal professionals.

Optional documents include independent property valuation reports, which banks may require for mortgages but aren't legally mandatory for cash purchases. Pre-purchase building and pest inspection reports are strongly recommended but technically optional, though most buyers obtain these for protection. Independent legal and tax advice, while highly advisable, is not legally required though it significantly reduces transaction risks.

Professional conveyancing or solicitor services are technically optional but practically essential given the complexity of Australian property law and foreign buyer requirements.

Can you complete the entire buying process without being physically in Australia?

Yes, the entire Perth property purchase process can be completed remotely without being physically present in Australia.

Digital signatures are legally accepted for all major documents including FIRB applications, contracts of sale, mortgage applications, and settlement paperwork. Remote settlement agents and conveyancers can act on your behalf throughout the entire process, handling document preparation, title transfers, and final settlement procedures.

Virtual property viewings, video inspections, and detailed property reports allow comprehensive property assessment from overseas. Many new developments and off-the-plan properties offer comprehensive virtual tours and detailed documentation packages specifically designed for international buyers.

However, appointing trusted local representatives is highly recommended even when buying remotely. A licensed real estate agent, qualified conveyancer, and potentially a property manager should be engaged to handle on-ground activities, conduct physical inspections, and manage any issues requiring local presence.

Banking and finance approvals can also be processed remotely through international banks or Australian lenders with foreign borrower programs, though this requires more extensive documentation and may involve video verification calls.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

How long does it typically take from making an offer to owning the property?

The timeline from offer acceptance to final property ownership in Perth typically ranges from 30 to 90 days for foreign buyers.

Established properties (where permitted) generally settle within 30-45 days from contract signing, assuming FIRB approval is already in place. However, most foreign buyers can only purchase new developments or off-the-plan properties, which often have longer settlement periods of 60-90 days or more.

Off-the-plan purchases may have settlement dates 6-24 months in the future, depending on construction completion schedules. The timeline begins from offer acceptance and contract signing, but requires all approvals and financing to be finalized well before settlement date.

Several factors can extend the timeline including FIRB approval delays (if not obtained beforehand), mortgage application processing for foreign buyers, building inspection issues requiring remediation, or legal complications discovered during due diligence. Complex properties or those requiring additional approvals may take 120+ days to complete.

Cash purchases typically settle faster than financed purchases since they eliminate mortgage approval waiting periods, though all other legal requirements and approval processes remain the same regardless of payment method.

What are all the costs, fees, and taxes involved, and what's the full breakdown?

Foreign buyers in Perth face substantial additional costs beyond the property purchase price.

Cost Category	Amount Range	Notes
FIRB Application Fee	AUD 14,100 - 150,000+	Based on property value, non-refundable
Stamp Duty	4-7% of property value	Includes foreign buyer surcharge
Annual Land Tax	0.3-2.25% annually	Plus foreign owner surcharge
Legal/Conveyancing	AUD 1,500 - 3,000	Essential professional services
Building/Pest Inspections	AUD 400 - 1,000	Highly recommended
Mortgage Application	AUD 500 - 2,000	If financing required
Property Valuation	AUD 300 - 800	Often required by lenders
Title Registration	AUD 200 - 500	Government registration fees

For a AUD 800,000 property purchase, foreign buyers should budget approximately AUD 60,000 - 120,000 in additional fees and taxes beyond the purchase price. Properties over AUD 1 million face significantly higher FIRB fees and stamp duty surcharges that can exceed AUD 200,000 in total additional costs.

Is it possible to buy with cash, and are there any advantages or drawbacks to doing so?

Purchasing Perth property with cash is entirely possible and offers several advantages for foreign buyers.

Cash purchases eliminate mortgage application complexities, which is particularly beneficial for foreign buyers who face stricter lending criteria and limited lender options. Settlement can proceed faster without waiting for loan approvals, bank valuations, or mortgage documentation processing.

Sellers often prefer cash offers since they carry no financing risk, potentially giving cash buyers competitive advantage in negotiations or auction situations. The offer process becomes simpler without mortgage pre-approval requirements or financing conditions.

However, cash purchases still require identical FIRB approvals, stamp duty payments, legal processes, and all other foreign buyer requirements. The substantial cash outlay ties up significant capital that could potentially generate higher returns in other investments or markets.

Cash buyers lose the leverage benefit of mortgages, missing opportunities to amplify returns through borrowed funds. Australian mortgages also provide some tax benefits that cash purchases cannot access, and the lack of lending scrutiny means buyers miss the additional due diligence that bank assessments provide.

Foreign exchange risk becomes concentrated in a single large transaction rather than spread over mortgage payments, potentially exposing buyers to currency fluctuation losses.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Australia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Can foreigners actually get a mortgage, what rates and conditions apply, and what tips help secure one?

Foreign buyers can obtain mortgages in Perth, though options are limited and conditions are more restrictive than for Australian residents.

Only select Australian banks and specialist lenders offer mortgages to non-resident foreign buyers, with most requiring higher interest rates typically 1-2% above standard rates. Loan-to-value ratios are restricted to 60-70% maximum, requiring deposit amounts of 30-40% rather than the 10-20% often available to locals.

Income verification requirements are extensive, demanding tax returns, employer letters, bank statements spanning 3-6 months, and often requiring income verification from certified accountants. Credit history from the buyer's home country may need professional translation and verification through international credit reporting agencies.

1. **Approach international banks** with Australian operations that understand foreign borrower requirements2. **Engage specialist mortgage brokers** experienced with non-resident lending3. **Prepare comprehensive documentation** well in advance of application4. **Demonstrate stable, substantial income** typically 30-50% higher than minimum requirements5. **Consider multiple lender options** since approval criteria vary significantly between institutions6. **Maintain strong credit history** in your home country with supporting documentation7. **Show significant liquid assets** beyond the required deposit amount

Some lenders may require borrowers to maintain Australian bank accounts and demonstrate ongoing ties to Australia beyond the property purchase.

Are real estate agents in Perth generally reliable, and how much protection does the legal system offer to buyers?

Licensed real estate agents in Perth are generally reliable when selected from established agencies with strong reputations and proper credentials.

All real estate agents in Western Australia must hold valid licenses and operate under strict professional standards enforced by the Department of Commerce. Licensed agents are required to carry professional indemnity insurance and maintain trust account protections for client funds. The Real Estate and Business Agents Supervisory Board provides regulatory oversight and handles complaints against agents.

The legal system offers substantial buyer protections through mandatory cooling-off periods, standardized contract terms, and comprehensive consumer protection laws. Buyers have legal rights to property condition disclosures, building defect warranties for new properties, and recourse through state tribunals for disputes.

Settlement agents and conveyancers must be licensed professionals with mandatory insurance coverage. The settlement process is highly regulated with standard procedures that protect buyer interests throughout the transaction. Title insurance and comprehensive land title systems provide additional security for property ownership rights.

Professional standards bodies enforce ethical requirements, while consumer protection agencies provide recourse for issues with agents or legal professionals. The established legal framework includes specific protections for foreign buyers and clear procedures for resolving disputes.

However, buyers should still verify agent credentials, check references, and engage independent legal representation to maximize protection.

What are the most common mistakes foreigners make when buying property in Perth, and what precautions should you take?

Foreign buyers frequently make critical errors that can result in financial losses or transaction failures in Perth's property market.

The most common mistake is attempting to purchase established properties without understanding the current restriction, leading to wasted time and potentially lost deposits. Many buyers also fail to secure FIRB approval before making offers, creating legal complications and potential contract breaches that can cost thousands in penalties.

Underestimating total costs is another frequent error, with buyers focusing only on purchase prices while ignoring stamp duty surcharges, FIRB fees, and ongoing land tax obligations that can add 15-25% to total investment costs. Poor currency hedging decisions during extended settlement periods can result in substantial losses from exchange rate fluctuations.

Relying exclusively on developer or seller representations without independent verification leads to problems with property quality, rental return projections, and neighborhood assessment accuracy. Many foreign buyers also skip professional building inspections, missing significant defects that become costly post-purchase issues.

**Essential Precautions:**1. **Verify property eligibility** before any commitment - only new dwellings, off-the-plan, or vacant land2. **Secure FIRB approval first** - never sign contracts without confirmed government approval3. **Budget comprehensively** - include all fees, taxes, and surcharges in purchase calculations4. **Engage independent professionals** - use your own lawyers, inspectors, and valuers5. **Conduct thorough due diligence** - verify developer credentials, construction progress, and completion timelines6. **Understand ongoing obligations** - research land tax, body corporate fees, and maintenance costs7. **Plan currency strategy** - consider hedging for extended settlement periods

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Properstar - Real Estate Guide Australia
2. Rothschild Group - Property and Citizenship Australia
3. Australian Taxation Office - Foreign Purchase Ban
4. OwnHome - Buying as Migrant Australia
5. Mavin Real Estate - Foreigners Buy Perth Property
6. Experts for Expats - Buy Property Australia Foreigner
7. Odin Mortgage - Property Permanent Residency Australia
8. GM Law - Buying House Australia Foreigner
9. Network Exchange - How to Buy House Perth
10. KDD Settlement Agent - Perth Property Overseas Investors