Oceania (Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific) - Moving to Sydney in under 2 months. Any Aussies able to offer advice?

Hi there! I hope it's okay that this is my first post, as I could use some help! I am a Canadian moving to Sydney in less than two months. Both my husband and I are professionals and are relocating as he got a research position at UNSW.

I have been looking into apartments but am having a heck of a time getting agents to respond to me as we are not in Australia yet. But the thing is that we will land on the 26th of July and I'm hoping to be in an apartment by the beginning of August.

I am looking for a neighbourhood near the UNSW that will allow my cat once she's out of quarantine, for around $400/wk.

Talking to the one or two Aussies I know, everyone tells me I'm going to be right out of luck trying to land and find a home on such a short amount of time... Any thoughts or advice for this Canadian??

Thank you!

That seems like a very tight timeline. You may try Craigslist. Also, if you haven't seen it, there is a lot of good info for migrants on this forum: http://www.australiaforum.com/

I just went and registered on www.australiaforum.com, thank you for the link!

I, too, am worried about the short timeline... I have pulled this trick in other places when there was no choice, but the idea of going through an agent to rent is new. Here you deal directly with building management to rent.

Thank you for the link! I just headed over and registered there! The time line really concerns me, too. However, I'm not sure what else to do...

Perhaps your husband can reach out to his future co-workers at UNSW for some short or long term options or advice. Perhaps they know an agent personally; some personal connection can help tremendously when communicating with an overseas client. Good luck.

Most estate agents are very short-term thinkers, it seems: they're response to a person contacting them from abroad is likely to be along the lines of "Once you're here we'll see what's around."

Perhaps you'd be better organising a short-term let (which is more expensive but which can be done from abroad) to start with. The cat will be in quarantine so that won't be an issue at first. Then you can look with a bit more time up your sleeve.

Definitely worth your husband contacting people at the UNSW: you never know what they might come up with.

Also, are there any flat/apartment-swapping organisations that you could tap into. I can't offer you any web addresses, I'm afraid, but this is a frequent source of accommodation for people going to or from the UK to Australia, so there might be something for Canada to Australia as well. It is particularly commonly used here by academics.

I have started looking into short-term flat rentals to give us a few weeks. Would anyone happen to know if it's possible/likely to rent an apartment mid-month? Or do you wait until the first of the month, generally, to move it.

Would anyone happen to know if it's possible/likely to rent an apartment mid-month?Yes. Try looking in http://www.domain.com.au/

House sitting is another option. Google house sitting sydney e.g.
http://www.aussiehousesitters.com.au/pg_house-sitting-sydney.php
http://www.happyhousesitters.com.au/

Thank you for all the help! I really appreciate it! If I go the short term rental way, any guesses as to how long I should look to rent for? Would 4 weeks give us enough time to find an apartment?

Good luck! $800/fortnight is very low for anything decent in the area you are wanting to live. You really need 50% more rent than that for a desirable apt. Sydney has close to 0 vacancy rate, and this means you must rent within an hour of finding something -- it will be gone by the next day. Plus you will need references, which might be tough to get, for all the nice apartments. I rented a 1BR for 1 month in November 2010, for $4000 per fortnight, as a point of reference; it was OK, but nothing spectacular (good location with harbour view and parking -- hence the price). Sydney has some of the highest apt prices in the world, it makes NYC and Toronto seem cheap. Even short-term rentals are in short supply; you can always get a serviced apt, but these run $100-200 per day, or more than double your budget.

Cheaper housing is readily available, in the Western suburbs, but it is an hour or 2 train ride away ... hence the lower price. For the prime areas, which you seem set on, expect to have no choice and high price. You can try looking on http://www.gumtree.com.au

Agents won't respond to you. There is so much demand that they won't bother with someone overseas.

I'd suggest using UNSW accomodation services. You should be easily able to find a 1br place near UNSW for $400/week.

http://www.asc.unsw.edu.au/

I don't think a mid-month date should be a problem for a short-term rental. Plenty of people use this sort of let for holidays and business trips, and they don't start at the beginning of the month necessarily.

Good luck! $800/fortnight is very low for anything decent in the area you are wanting to live. You really need 50% more rent than that for a desirable apt. Sydney has close to 0 vacancy rate, and this means you must rent within an hour of finding something -- it will be gone by the next day. Plus you will need references, which might be tough to get, for all the nice apartments. I rented a 1BR for 1 month in November 2010, for $4000 per fortnight, as a point of reference; it was OK, but nothing spectacular (good location with harbour view and parking -- hence the price). Sydney has some of the highest apt prices in the world, it makes NYC and Toronto seem cheap. Even short-term rentals are in short supply; you can always get a serviced apt, but these run $100-200 per day, or more than double your budget.

Cheaper housing is readily available, in the Western suburbs, but it is an hour or 2 train ride away ... hence the lower price. For the prime areas, which you seem set on, expect to have no choice and high price. You can try looking on http://www.gumtree.com.au

A bit over the top I think, if you only want a one bedder in the Randwick area can be easily achieved for 400 a week. It may not be deluxe but that wasn't in the OP's specification. A little more could be require if you want nicer or more room, this is only 440 http://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Rent/Apartment/NSW/Randwick/?adid=7050022

Rental shortages are much exaggerated in the press to drive the real estate industry's agenda.

Simply put there is no need for the OP to live more than an hour away by train! And why would references be a problem for them?

(Oh and if the cat if its an indoor cat my advice would probably be not to mention it, for pets you need the permissions of the strata (building basically)and the landlord. Most agents can't be bothered with the hassle or would rather have a don't ask don't tell policy.)

A bit over the top I think, if you only want a one bedder in the Randwick area can be easily achieved for 400 a week. It may not be deluxe but that wasn't in the OP's specification. ...Actually the OP did not specify the number of bedrooms or level of luxury, except to say that they are "two professionals" ... which in US/Canada means they want granite countertops, spa bath and sub-zero fridge :) A quick peak on realestate.com.au shows $550/wk - 650/wk is the range for anything nice, but there are some under 450/wk ... and they do rent quickly, note how many listings are already applied for:
http://www.realestate.com.au/rent/property-unit-in-randwick,+nsw+2031/list-1

Good luck!

Actually the OP did not specify the number of bedrooms or level of luxury, except to say that they are "two professionals" ... which in US/Canada means they want granite countertops, spa bath and sub-zero fridge :) A quick peak on realestate.com.au shows $550/wk - 650/wk is the range for anything nice, but there are some under 450/wk ... and they do rent quickly, note how many listings are already applied for:
http://www.realestate.com.au/rent/property-unit-in-randwick,+nsw+2031/list-1

Good luck!

You are right they didn't specify thats why I didn't make any assumptions just thought about the budget and area specified.

I must tell my friends without these features in their San Francisco and New York apartments that they are no longer professionals. :rolleyes: I am also lucky my American wife didn't leave me when we didn't have any of these features now we only have the granite kitchen tops she is still waiting for the spa and the fridge..

As someone on the ground who pays close attention to rentals in the Eastern Suburbs area I can tell you not all go quickly. Sure some do but its not the horror story the press would have you think. Trying to bring a bit of positivity from the locals to someone moving to our city.

I feel like I've stumbled into something I don't quite understand here... I don't live in the lap of luxury here, and I don't expect to live in luxury in Sydney, either. Seems like a lot of judgment based on knowing very little about me... :confused:

simong, thank you for your cool head and great thoughts. I'm feeling a little better and am in the process of trying to find a short term rental to give us more time once we land to find a place. Do you think 4 weeks would be enough time to find something, or should I plan on longer?

No guarantees but 4 weeks seems like a good period of time, may not be occupy in 4 weeks though depending on the notice period of the other parties. Will be even easier if its just your husband working at first and you can make this your "job" at first. If you can attend or arrange midweek viewings often these are less busy and sometimes you can make a deal before it gets shown on Saturday.

If you are doing Saturday viewings if you don't have access to a car it may be worth getting a rental for the day as they are often very close to each other in time.

Normally with short term you can slightly extend where required.

Also gives you time to decide on which area you might like, if you want to be by the beach Coogee is a good option in that locality.

Have a browse on gumtree.com. You might be able to find something there.
I'm not a fan of Kensington myself - I find the area around Anzac Pde to be depressing, but that's just my personal taste. If you're looking for convenience I suggest that you look at the the following suburbs:

Randwick
Kensington
Coogee
Bronte
Rosebery
Maroubra

There are some newish unit developments in Waterloo but they might be a bit beyond your budget. Are you going to get a car?

I've actually searched for and rented an apt. in Sydney recently, admittedly with some stringent requirements (good location, view and car parking). I started expecting to pay $1000/week, and the cheapest that I found and eventually rented cost $2000/week -- or 500% of your budget. And this was for a 1BR, though a nice one.

Sydney housing prices are amongst the highest in the world, and housing quality for the older unrenovated buildings is dismal -- really atrocious quality sometimes. Central heating is a luxury extra, for example, as is ample hot water. Lots of things you might take for granted won't be there for a $400/week inner suburbs rental. The renovated places are fine (definitely world standard), but those cost $600/week and up for the most part. There is a reason that UNSW runs an extensive housing service, the best advice here is to use that; you'll be far better off than searching on your own. For my rental I had to provide 3 references, which were actually contacted, as well as proof of income. It is a sellers market and the better places are very picky, unreasonably so. Quite different from US/Canada

2000 a week! Did you read the response from the OP? And if the OP did want to spend that much they could get two car spaces and three bedrooms.

http://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Rent/Apartment/NSW/Coogee/?adid=7057818

There is a reason for a lack of central heating, you don't need it! In the winter months oil heaters etc make much more sense in this area... So yes it's a luxury and the OP was clear luxury is not the aim. The hot water thing is just crap, all units I have lived in have their own individual ones and they work fine!

I've actually searched for and rented an apt. in Sydney recently, admittedly with some stringent requirements (good location, view and car parking). I started expecting to pay $1000/week, and the cheapest that I found and eventually rented cost $2000/week -- or 500% of your budget. And this was for a 1BR, though a nice one.



Sorry, but if you can't find a decent 1br apartment for $1000/week you're not trying hard enough. I live in a 3br terrace in Paddington and pay about that. $1000/week will get you a new or near new 2 or 3 br apartment in any of the areas the OP wants to look. To say that there is nothing available in the areas the OP is looking for $400/week is simply incorrect.

I agree! I just put in a search in Domain out of curiosity and there are 587 rentals in Sydney and the immediately adjacent suburbs for $1000/wk or less.

When I first moved to Sydney ~4-5years ago I lived in a new 2br, 2bathroom apartment in Maroubra for $320/wk. Obviously prices would be a bit higher now but it was an easy 10min walk (if that!) from the beach and a 20min bus ride from UNSW in peak hour.

I agree that you should look at the list of suburbs BondiSlacker gave and, if you're not already, check out www.domain.com.au for rental listings.

Once we land, my husband starts work on Aug. 1, but I will indeed be able to make home hunting my "job" for the first while. I have three references who would be able to be called, as well as one that is just a letter (the management company no longer runs the building). Those are actually all the places we've lived in since leaving home. Anything else would be our parents! :p I'm assuming it's just landlord references, if they want character references or employee references, I can supply those easily, too.

In the suburbs mentioned (Randwick, Kensington, Coogee, Bronte, Rosebery, Maroubra) are things fairly accessible by bus? We are planning on a car, but it may not be immediate. (Though I have no problem renting one for home hunting, if need be, once I've had a few driving lessons under my belt!)

Thanks again, all. I really would rather live with a little less than pay most of our income in rent, particularly as we will be a single income family for the first while.

In my personal experience, agents are more interested in whether you can pay rent than whether you're of a good character. That means be prepared to pay bond and deposit straight away. It also means take whatever evidence you have to show you can pay rent, e.g. employment contract, etc.

For a fully furnished place, it can easily add up to 2 months worth of rent (4 weeks bond, 4 weeks rent).

I also recommend you to get Internet access as soon as you land - be in finding a good Internet cafe or free wifi from a local place or buy a wireless boardband dongle. Some agents operate on paper-based application forms, some simply direct you to their web site. You'll need frequent Internet access to check web sites like Domain and Real Estate anyway...

As noted before, demand far outstrips supply. Agents can pick and choose and be total arrogant .......s and still get away with it.

For short term accommodation try:

www.stayz.com.au
www.rent-a-home.com.au

It seems like you will be here "off-season" so the prices on those websites will be VERY negotiable.

I really wouldn't recommend trying to find something more permanent until you get here. If you use one of the above websites for a short period - that will give you one local reference as well.

You could also choose to engage a relocation agent:

e.g. http://www.crownrelocations.com.au/relocation-agents

They have the contacts with the agents and will find a property before you arrive. Not a cheap service though.

In the suburbs mentioned (Randwick, Kensington, Coogee, Bronte, Rosebery, Maroubra) are things fairly accessible by bus? We are planning on a car, but it may not be immediate. (Though I have no problem renting one for home hunting, if need be, once I've had a few driving lessons under my belt!)


All of these suburbs are well connected by bus. Thinking ahead, Randwick is near the UNSW (central Randwick particularly so), as is Kensington. From many parts of those suburbs your husband could sensibly walk to work.

Sydney bus routes and timetables are accessible here (http://www.sydneybuses.info/routes/timetables-route-maps), although as with all of these things, the site is easier to use when you know the areas involved. Still, with a bit of ingenuity and a map, it might help a bit. :)

In the suburbs mentioned (Randwick, Kensington, Coogee, Bronte, Rosebery, Maroubra) are things fairly accessible by bus? We are planning on a car, but it may not be immediate. (Though I have no problem renting one for home hunting, if need be, once I've had a few driving lessons under my belt!)


Extremely accessible. You should have no problems getting everything you need by using the bus network that runs through those areas. Unfortunately there is no train line out there which can make a commute into the city annoying, but you won't have to worry about that.:)

Everyone has been so helpful, thank you! Just a few questions for budgeting, if you don't mind. What other living costs should I account for. Here my water is included in my rent, but I pay for power. (My monthly power costs about $50/month, tv and internet run me about $120/month.) Any idea what living expenses I should budget for in Sydney?

Everyone has been so helpful, thank you! Just a few questions for budgeting, if you don't mind. What other living costs should I account for. Here my water is included in my rent, but I pay for power. (My monthly power costs about $50/month, tv and internet run me about $120/month.) Any idea what living expenses I should budget for in Sydney?

Power - $100-$150 a month (depending on how much you use air conditioning - seriously Australia has about the highest power costs I've ever heard of)

Water - included in your rent if you rent an apartment (but not if you rent a house)

Rates - included in your rent

TV - Full cable package is about $120 a month (changes depending on what you want), but also there are about 20 free channels over the air

Internet - Budget about $50 for any number of providers

House insurance - depending on if you want it - about $80 a month for contents only

Medical Insurance - About $120 per person per month. I think you are covered by Medicare in Australia (depending on which visa you are on) but should be checked out.

Phone line - about $30 a month

Look at http://www.bayswatercarrental.com.au/ for cheap car rental near by.

My choice of the locations suggested would be Maroubra. Great beach (you are in Australia after all) and quite quiet, reasonably priced and easy access to UNSW.

My choice of the locations suggested would be Maroubra. Great beach (you are in Australia after all) and quite quiet, reasonably priced and easy access to UNSW.

Soem good advice here, only area I would avoid in Maroubra is close to Lexington Place, I understand its a still a bit dicey there. (all relative as Sydney is a very safe city to world standards I think).

Soem good advice here, only area I would avoid in Maroubra is close to Lexington Place, I understand its a still a bit dicey there. (all relative as Sydney is a very safe city to world standards I think).

Yes, the closer to the beach you are, the better it is :-)

Soem good advice here, only area I would avoid in Maroubra is close to Lexington Place, I understand its a still a bit dicey there. (all relative as Sydney is a very safe city to world standards I think).

Yeah, I've had a few of the friendly locals peg chunks of bricks at me when cycling round there. :rolleyes:

North Maroubra, toward Coogee is noticeably nicer than south Maroubra.

Yeah, I've had a few of the friendly locals peg chunks of bricks at me when cycling round there. :rolleyes:

North Maroubra, toward Coogee is noticeably nicer than south Maroubra.

I got excited by a property to purchase in that area once.. there was a reason it was a steal! Hopefully they can sort it out eventully, just a few families of bad apples no doubt!

I got excited by a property to purchase in that area once.. there was a reason it was a steal! Hopefully they can sort it out eventully, just a few families of bad apples no doubt!

Housing Commission and cul-de-sacs are a bad combination.

...
When I first moved to Sydney ~4-5years ago I lived in a new 2br, 2bathroom apartment in Maroubra for $320/wk. Obviously prices would be a bit higher now but it was an easy 10min walk (if that!) from the beach and a 20min bus ride from UNSW in peak hour. ....Rents have doubled in the past 5 years, so that 2BR/2BA would be $600/wk or more (sometimes much more, depending on location). I was renting top-drawer but my point is that even that was difficult. The OP will discover for herself how dismal the apts are, with really awful quality unless you pay enough. Seems like all the comments on this thread are from people who rented 5 years ago -- when prices were much lower and selection was much easier. The market has changed a lot recently. I'd like to hear from someone who rented within the past year! I don't live in Sydney, but have good friends there and think I had a better-than-average search; admittedly in the pricier suburbs, but still Sydney housing is shocking for anyone used to Canada or US housing.

Rents have doubled in the past 5 years, so that 2BR/2BA would be $600/wk or more (sometimes much more, depending on location). I was renting top-drawer but my point is that even that was difficult. The OP will discover for herself how dismal the apts are, with really awful quality unless you pay enough. Seems like all the comments on this thread are from people who rented 5 years ago -- when prices were much lower and selection was much easier. The market has changed a lot recently. I'd like to hear from someone who rented within the past year! I don't live in Sydney, but have good friends there and think I had a better-than-average search; admittedly in the pricier suburbs, but still Sydney housing is shocking for anyone used to Canada or US housing.

Yes, renting is expensive and the quality of some of these places is awful, but if you look smartly you can find some gems. I've been renting a newish 3BR with beach views close to South Coogee for the past 2 years for $600 a week. It's possible.

Rents have doubled in the past 5 years, so that 2BR/2BA would be $600/wk or more (sometimes much more, depending on location). I was renting top-drawer but my point is that even that was difficult. The OP will discover for herself how dismal the apts are, with really awful quality unless you pay enough. Seems like all the comments on this thread are from people who rented 5 years ago -- when prices were much lower and selection was much easier. The market has changed a lot recently. I'd like to hear from someone who rented within the past year!

The comments on here are from people who actually live and rent in Sydney, not short term rentals. :rolleyes:

Rents have doubled in the past 5 years, so that 2BR/2BA would be $600/wk or more (sometimes much more, depending on location).

Actually, it's only $500/wk (http://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Rent/Apartment/NSW/Maroubra/?adid=6329593).

That is a current listing in in the same block of apartments that I was in and pretty much the same layout. So yes, the price has gone up but not nearly as much as you claim.

I should also point out that apartments in that block were renting for $400/wk when I was living there so if this is one of those then the increase is even smaller.

Edited to add: And here (http://www.google.com.au/search?sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=1094+anzac+parade+maroubra#sclient=psy&hl=en&source=hp&q=1094+anzac+parade+maroubra+rent&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&fp=b49c60dddd7522a7&biw=1680&bih=935) is another recent rental in that block that was $430/wk.

Actually, it's only $500/wk (http://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Rent/Apartment/NSW/Maroubra/?adid=6329593).

That is a current listing in in the same block of apartments that I was in and pretty much the same layout. So yes, the price has gone up but not nearly as much as you claim.
.

God that place is disgusting... how could you live there with no spa??!!? :D

God that place is disgusting... how could you live there with no spa??!!? :D

To be fair, that red leather couch does it no favours! :D

To be fair, that red leather couch does it no favours! :D

You would get on with my wife she gets fixated with the furniture when looking at property!

Speaking as a fairly recent expat to Australia, don't underestimate the amount of time and effort needed to find a place: since the legal system here is skewed towards the tenants, making it very time-consuming and expensive to evict anybody, the perverse result is that rental agencies are entirely skewed towards landlords and do their darnedest to make it hard to rent. Property viewings are held for 10 minutes at 2:45 PM on every other Wednesday, making them virtually impossible to get to if you have to work or don't have a car... and if you do make it there, based on this cursory glance you usually have to decide right then and there if you're going to apply for the privilege of renting it. The multi-page application forms requires references from previous landlords, employers, multiple forms of ID incl. things like Australian drivers' licenses (which you can only apply for once you have proof of residence in Australia!), proof of employment, proof of income, etc, and you may well be asked to provide eg. bank statements to prove that you actually have money! After submitting all these, you get to twiddle your thumbs for a week or two, and if the agent has any choice at all in the matter, the unit will go to somebody else anyway.

Here in Melbourne, it took us exactly a month to find a place to live in, and that's despite my wife devoting that time to house-hunting. And I still consider us lucky, because while we only found one place we thought as OK, we happened to be the only applicants, so after several weeks of waiting for anybody else to show up, the agent gave up and gave it to us.

For an idea of mid-level current rental (admittedly 40 minutes by bus from UNSW) have a look at http://www.lsdbpm.com.au/pol/property/search.asp?f_propertyID=1547577&xsl=895&f_st=&f_ct=1&f_ps=2. A bit out of the OP's price range but couldn't resist the opportunity for a personal plug on which the plug may be pulled :p

For an idea of mid-level current rental (admittedly 40 minutes by bus from UNSW) have a look at http://www.lsdbpm.com.au/pol/property/search.asp?f_propertyID=1547577&xsl=895&f_st=&f_ct=1&f_ps=2. A bit out of the OP's price range but couldn't resist the opportunity for a personal plug on which the plug may be pulled :p

Ha! I love the line, "your phone calls will be your only expense" ... leaving out the small matter of the rent on an absolute-water-frontage property in Double Bay. :p

(The OP may be interested to know that Double Bay goes by the punny sobriquet of "Double Pay"...)

The multi-page application forms requires references from previous landlords, employers, multiple forms of ID incl. things like Australian drivers' licenses (which you can only apply for once you have proof of residence in Australia!), proof of employment, proof of income, etc, and you may well be asked to provide eg. bank statements to prove that you actually have money! After submitting all these, you get to twiddle your thumbs for a week or two, and if the agent has any choice at all in the matter, the unit will go to somebody else anyway.


When I took my first lease after arriving back in Aus having left the UK (where I owned my own home, so no real references), they required all of those things, a packing list from my movers (they couldn't understand why I wanted a three bedroom apartment all to myself), a reference from my banker, proof that I'd just moved from overseas, copies of sales documents from my UK home and god knows what else.

Yes, renting is expensive and the quality of some of these places is awful, but if you look smartly you can find some gems. I've been renting a newish 3BR with beach views close to South Coogee for the past 2 years for $600 a week. It's possible.

Yep. I rent a newly renovated three bedroom house (including garage) 200 metres from Bondi Beach for $850 a week (Bondi's probably 20% more expensive than say Maroubra).

When I took my first lease after arriving back in Aus having left the UK (where I owned my own home, so no real references), they required all of those things, a packing list from my movers (they couldn't understand why I wanted a three bedroom apartment all to myself), a reference from my banker, proof that I'd just moved from overseas, copies of sales documents from my UK home and god knows what else.

So, basically, get every document I can get my hands on related to moving and renting and bring it with me? I'm currently creating a rental resume, so that's good to know. Plus if we do a short term rental of 4 - 6 weeks, then we'll have a local reference, too.

Right now for our rental resume I have:

-Three letters of reference from landlords, including two that can be called
-All our supporting documents (Copy of visas, offer of employment)
-I can easily include a packing list (I'm making one for customs, anyway)
-Not sure about financial records, or a reference from a banker... What would that need to say?

Anything else you can think of to have at hand when I venture out?

I know I've said it twice already, but I am indebted for the help. I feel like asking a few questions has kept me from striking out in ignorance and making mistakes as well as saving money. ^

Getting a local bank account would help.. You can start this process before arrival http://www.commbank.com.au/personal/international/moving-to-australia/ other banks also offer this service. This just happens to be my employer. I can arrange for them to contact you also.

...-Not sure about financial records, or a reference from a banker... What would that need to say?...The agents want to see that you are solvent, so either a letter stating that you have had lots of money in the bank for years, or 2 bank statements (1 a year or more ago and the other last month) showing a substantial bank account balance (5 figures would be good). At a minimum you need to show where your bond and initial rent is coming from, but most agents won't rent unless you have more esp. if new to Australia. It is an incredible hassle and quite different from elsewhere in the world, but this is Sydney. Going throught the UNSW housing service would make things much easier for you.

Getting a local bank account would help.. You can start this process before arrival http://www.commbank.com.au/personal/international/moving-to-australia/ other banks also offer this service. This just happens to be my employer. I can arrange for them to contact you also.I've dealt with all 4 of the major banks, and have found Commonwealth to be the worst of the 4, at least in terms of overseas transactions. Best is Westpac, and then ANZ and NAB. Commonwealth routinely takes a week to do what Westpac does the same day, plus Commonwealth has a high error rate for my transactions (very annoying).

The agents want to see that you are solvent, so either a letter stating that you have had lots of money in the bank for years, or 2 bank statements (1 a year or more ago and the other last month) showing a substantial bank account balance (5 figures would be good). At a minimum you need to show where your bond and initial rent is coming from, but most agents won't rent unless you have more esp. if new to Australia. It is an incredible hassle and quite different from elsewhere in the world, but this is Sydney. Going throught the UNSW housing service would make things much easier for you.



Never in my 4 rental propertys I have rented over the last 6 years have I ever been asked to show my bank balance. The suggestion it would need to be 5 figures is laughable, they are not buying it!

I've dealt with all 4 of the major banks, and have found Commonwealth to be the worst of the 4, at least in terms of overseas transactions. Best is Westpac, and then ANZ and NAB. Commonwealth routinely takes a week to do what Westpac does the same day, plus Commonwealth has a high error rate for my transactions (very annoying).

If you want a true international banking service you need to go with an international bank. HSBC and Citibank both offer services that allow you to transfer money between international accounts instantly.

Although if you are sending large sums of cash you are much better off using a service like www.ozforex.com.au which will give much better exchange rates on larger sums. Your local HSBC or Citibank branch in Canada should be able to set you up an account in Aus before you get here.

As I've mentioned in my previous post, since you don't have a financial history in Aus, the more evidence you have regarding your ability to pay rent, the better. The agent is only really interested in that, not how good you are as a person.

Prior to my arrival in Australia, I'd a bank account set up. You need to have an Australian address for that. As per previous advice, there are banks that can do that for you now, or you can find a friend that you can use their address for a while.

Once an account is set up, be prepared with your documentation. I brought my employment contract (showing how much I earn), my residency (showing I can legally reside in Aus). Be prepared to pay your deposit as soon as possible. When I arrived, I'd nowhere near a 5-digit bank balance, and I was approved with my first application. As I mentioned, you will need to front up with with up to 8 weeks worth of rent when you apply. If you haven't handed over the money, they won't consider your application. I don't think I was asked for my bank balance either, although I was prepared with it, in case they wanted to know.

The best I advice I can give you is, be prepared, be decisive and be quick.

P.S. I was a tennant of Morton & Morton (www.mortonandmorton.com.au) - I'm not passing judgement of them in a public forum, but they accept applications online. Pretend you're applying for one and see what sort of documentation and process they follow.

since the legal system here is skewed towards the tenants, making it very time-consuming and expensive to evict anybody, the perverse result is that rental agencies are entirely skewed towards landlords and do their darnedest to make it hard to rent.

Interesting take. For me, the system in Australia is skewed in favour of the landlord. Just a question of perspective. In some European countries you can not terminate a lease as a landlord unless you want to live in the place yourself. You can't raise the rent more than inflation etc. So things are landlord friendly here compared to other places.

Interesting take. For me, the system in Australia is skewed in favour of the landlord. Just a question of perspective. In some European countries you can not terminate a lease as a landlord unless you want to live in the place yourself. You can't raise the rent more than inflation etc. So things are landlord friendly here compared to other places.

Try getting a tenant out though that is behind in their rent. I have a tenant at the moment who is four weeks behind and the best advice from the agent is just to live with it as it will take months through the tribunal to get them out, they'll likely not pay rent during this period, and then there's only four weeks bond to cover losses. I have landlord's insurance but it's always difficult to claim against. And they've started paying again but just seem to be always 4 weeks behind. But now we are way off topic ....

As I mentioned, you will need to front up with with up to 8 weeks worth of rent when you apply. If you haven't handed over the money, they won't consider your application. I don't think I was asked for my bank balance either, although I was prepared with it, in case they wanted to know.

The best I advice I can give you is, be prepared, be decisive and be quick.


8 weeks worth of rent includes the first four weeks rent and deposit, right? If so, that's pretty well the same as here. Then is rent paid monthly or weekly usually?

Once I find somewhere I like and I fill in the application and give a deposit, is the apartment then considered mine? Or is there still a chance it could go to someone else? I think it's this process that is still confusing me a little...

Also, I'm glad to hear the general consensus is that I don't need to be a millionaire to find an apartment. I mean, if I win the lottery between now and then, you're all invited to a nice dinner on me, but otherwise... :p

8 weeks worth of rent includes the first four weeks rent and deposit, right? If so, that's pretty well the same as here. Then is rent paid monthly or weekly usually?

Once I find somewhere I like and I fill in the application and give a deposit, is the apartment then considered mine? Or is there still a chance it could go to someone else? I think it's this process that is still confusing me a little...
Rent is generally paid monthly even though it is quoted weekly or fortnightly. Some landlords require first+last month rent in advance plus bond, but most common is 1 month (not 4 weeks) in advance and 1 month bond; so about 9 weeks in advance.

The apt is not yours until you move in; giving a deposit gives you zero rights, and it is somewhat common for landlords to find a better tenant afterwards.

The credit check system in Australia is different than in US/Canada, hence the big difference for those newly arrived from overseas vs. those who have lived here for a few years. Quite frankly much of the advice on this thread doesn't apply to you -- I know from bitter experience. Some landlords are lenient, but others are incredibly picky. Generally the bad properties are much easier to rent, and the great ones are very very picky. Good luck.

Good luck Ember42 finding the truth amidst all the misinformation in this thread :eek:

The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 which came into effect in Jan 2011 requires that a landlord can only insist on 2 weeks rent in advance (previously 4 weeks) meaning that with a maximum 4 week bond you are only up for 6 weeks rent when signing a lease. Fully furnished properties previously could charge a 6 week bond but this has now been limited to 4 weeks.

Paying a holding fee or deposit does give you rights - the agent can only accept the Holding Fee (max 1 weeks rent) if the landlord has approved the tenancy and the Act states that If a tenant has paid a holding fee, the landlord must not enter into a residential tenancy agreement for the residential premises with any other person within 7 days of payment of the fee So if you pay a holding fee you have absolute right to proceed with signing a tenancy agreement in the next seven days and once you have signed a tenancy agreement and paid your 4 week bond and 2 week rental advance the apartment is yours - you have considerable rights if the agent/landlord does not comply with the Act

The credit check system in Australia is different than in US/Canada, hence the big difference for those newly arrived from overseas vs. those who have lived here for a few years. Quite frankly much of the advice on this thread doesn't apply to you -- I know from bitter experience. Some landlords are lenient, but others are incredibly picky. Generally the bad properties are much easier to rent, and the great ones are very very picky. Good luck.

The thing is you are the only one disagreeing. And funnily enough you don't even live here. At least 4 people in this thread have experienced renting in Australia as an expat, and their experience is nothing like what you have described, ie nothing under $600/week and the requirement of having at least a five figure bank account.

Maybe you should defer to those who might have a bit more experience living in Sydney.@:-)

Good luck Ember42 finding the truth amidst all the misinformation in this thread :eek:

The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 which came into effect in Jan 2011 requires that a landlord can only insist on 2 weeks rent in advance (previously 4 weeks) meaning that with a maximum 4 week bond you are only up for 6 weeks rent when signing a lease. Fully furnished properties previously could charge a 6 week bond but this has now been limited to 4 weeks.

Paying a holding fee or deposit does give you rights - the agent can only accept the Holding Fee (max 1 weeks rent) if the landlord has approved the tenancy and the Act states that If a tenant has paid a holding fee, the landlord must not enter into a residential tenancy agreement for the residential premises with any other person within 7 days of payment of the fee So if you pay a holding fee you have absolute right to proceed with signing a tenancy agreement in the next seven days and once you have signed a tenancy agreement and paid your 4 week bond and 2 week rental advance the apartment is yours - you have considerable rights if the agent/landlord does not comply with the Act

Thank you! I have now downloaded the Tenancies Act - not the most exciting read but clearly it's good to know your rights and responsibilities.

Most of the posters have been very helpful, both with providing information and by correcting misinformation. I'm so glad I found this board! I'm still feeling maximum stress over this whole moving process, but having somewhere to direct questions has helped tremendously.

I'm still feeling maximum stress over this whole moving process, but having somewhere to direct questions has helped tremendously.

Don't be too stressed remember its exciting and you get to move to one of the worlds great cities!

To that end you will be here just in time for City2Surf which can be run or walked, to my mind its a highlight of the year and really cemented my love for this city when I first took part.. Great scenery and atmosphere So if you feel up to it, highly recommend it

http://www.city2surf.com.au/

Oh yes love the city to surf. It's worth a walk if you are not up to the run. Really showcases sydney. It's about a 3-4 hour walk depending on how fast you are.

This thread has gotten a little aggressive for some reason but no matter. Number_6 is always very helpful on this forum and is merely giving advice as to his own experience. My experience with landlords (and being one myself !) is that they will all require something different - so be prepared for random requests.

(Oh and if the cat if its an indoor cat my advice would probably be not to mention it, for pets you need the permissions of the strata (building basically)and the landlord. Most agents can't be bothered with the hassle or would rather have a don't ask don't tell policy.)

:td::td::td:

You are assuming the neighbours (and property inspectors) wont notice.

And its extremely selfish & irresponsible since there are health issues relating to keeping pets in apartments.

Oh yes love the city to surf. It's worth a walk if you are not up to the run. Really showcases sydney. It's about a 3-4 hour walk depending on how fast you are.



It has a great atmosphere, it's the 2nd or 3rd biggest running race in the world now.

:td::td::td:

You are assuming the neighbours (and property inspectors) wont notice.

And its extremely selfish & irresponsible since there are health issues relating to keeping pets in apartments.

Any experience with property in NSW?

The bylaws currently state "The owners corporation must not unreasonably refuse permission to keep an animal." so if you are an owner you could never not be allowed a cat anyway. I am sure the horse may not be allowed.

Not sure what health issues you expect an indoor cat to cause a block of units? As long as you do the right thing and be sure to fully clean up when you hand the apartment back no harm done that I can see.

Any experience with property in NSW?

Why do you even ask ?

Because my location doesnt say "NSW" :confused::confused::confused:

Any experience with property in NSW?

The bylaws currently state "The owners corporation must not unreasonably refuse permission to keep an animal." so if you are an owner you could never not be allowed a cat anyway. I am sure the horse may not be allowed.

Not sure what health issues you expect an indoor cat to cause a block of units? As long as you do the right thing and be sure to fully clean up when you hand the apartment back no harm done that I can see.

And the "default" position when a strata plan is lodged is that "small pets" are allowed. The strata has to choose not to allow pets, and then they can't unreasonably withhold consent. It's normally much more of a landlord issue than a strata issue.

and then they can't unreasonably withhold consent.

... but with conditions attached.

Best thing about Sydney are the flights to Melbourne.

Many of the apartments I've been seeing on-line say "no pets." I've just been skipping over them and came to the conclusion that the cat will just make an already hard process even harder. *shrug* And seeing at feels nearly impossible at this point anyway... :p

I am in the process of finding a temporary home (short term rental or flat share) for a month to six weeks and had the thought that I could bring my credit report with me. This is what lenders in Canada look at to determine if someone is a good credit risk, but I'm not sure anyone in Australia would have access to it. It will show I've never had a late or missed payment in all my years of dealing with credit, it also shows my credit score (very good!) and all the credit I have or have had access to. Does that seem like a good idea? You have to pay to get a copy, but if it will help prove I'll pay my rent, I don't mind.

...and had the thought that I could bring my credit report with me. ....That is a good idea, though officially it has no standing. Anything that increases confidence by the agent that you are genuine will help. Your airline tickets into Australia, for example (proving you are recently arrived). You might have to rent a house, or an apt. with garden access, to find one that allows a pet, even a cat.

Don't give up, preparation helps tremendously, and you know now what you are up against (and that you aren't being singled out, this is how Sydney treats all newly arrived migrants). One other point to watch out for, refrigerators are considered "furniture" and aren't routinely included in unfurnished apts (but stoves are!). So you are likely to find many apts without a refrigerator (have to buy your own, or rent one weekly which isn't very economical). I've even seen the apt listed as "partly furnished" because it did include a fridge. Yet another quaint luxury feature there.

OP did you find any help from the link I posted in post #10? I'd be surprised if they can't at least find you something to help you short term while you look.

I'm a recent expat to Australia, and I think number_6's advice is right on the money. Sure, it's not always that tough, but it most definitely can be.

Never in my 4 rental propertys I have rented over the last 6 years have I ever been asked to show my bank balance. The suggestion it would need to be 5 figures is laughable, they are not buying it!
Since you've already rented 4 properties, you have an Australian track record, and are thus in an entirely different position from a freshly arrived expat with zero rental or financial history in Australia.

And re: landlord friendliness, in Singapore the landlord can apply for a writ of distress once rent is fourteen (14) days overdue. Once granted, he has the immediate right to seize and sell the tenant's belongings to cover unpaid rent and legal costs, and the property can be repossessed 10 days later, with the tenant forcibly ejected by police if necessary. Brutal, yes; effective, yes; and is it easy to rent an apartment in Singapore, oh yes.

... it's a light hearted joke.

I agree... my first reaction when seeing the title of the thread was 'move to Melbourne :)'

The OP will soon enough be exposed to the healthy rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne. Sure it's a bit OT, but added a sense of humour to a post which has, by and large, outlined the difficulty (but not impossibility) the OP will face once they get to Australia.

OP did you find any help from the link I posted in post #10? I'd be surprised if they can't at least find you something to help you short term while you look.

There's a lot listed, and I've sent out 30+ inquires, but only had one response... I will persevere though! Also, thanks to the advice from here, we are in the process of opening bank accounts. (Thank you!)

There's a lot listed, and I've sent out 30+ inquires, but only had one response... That is better than average, you have to chase the agents, many won't even return phone calls -- really absurd situation, but that's the market. Lucky for you it has started to soften, with property values falling for the first time (unlike the US, there was no drop in prices during the GFC, in fact just went up faster). If you find a good agent (e.g. one that replies to you) then working with them is to your advantage rather than looking for more agents. They can all get the same listings for the most part.

They can all get the same listings for the most part.

:confused:

How exactly does that work?

Usually a property owner will sign up with an agency for their property management services and the agency will get a percentage of the rental amount as their fee (as well as charging for costs incurred).

If another agency wanted to manage the property they would have to locate the owner and then get the owner to drop their contract with the first agency and re-sign with them. I don't see that many property owners would really be interested in that.

If they aren't contracted with the property owner then an agency isn't going to be making any money from facilitating the rental and I really don't see any of them helping out of the goodness of their hearts...

That is better than average, you have to chase the agents, many won't even return phone calls -- really absurd situation, but that's the market. Lucky for you it has started to soften, with property values falling for the first time (unlike the US, there was no drop in prices during the GFC, in fact just went up faster). If you find a good agent (e.g. one that replies to you) then working with them is to your advantage rather than looking for more agents. They can all get the same listings for the most part.

Not much good for the rental market in Sydney though, vacancy rates in all of sydney are about 1%, and in the eastern suburbs closer to about 0.25% ....

Not much good for the rental market in Sydney though, vacancy rates in all of sydney are about 1%, and in the eastern suburbs closer to about 0.25% ....

http://www.sqmresearch.com.au/graph_vacancy.php?region=nsw%3A%3AEastern+Suburbs&t=1

According to SQM it's 1.5% in the Eastern Suburbs and 1.4% city wide. I know that the RP Data and others use a different methodology that tends to show lower vacancy rates.

http://www.sqmresearch.com.au/graph_vacancy.php?region=nsw%3A%3AEastern+Suburbs&t=1

According to SQM it's 1.5% in the Eastern Suburbs and 1.4% city wide. I know that the RP Data and others use a different methodology that tends to show lower vacancy rates.

I'll admit I guessed those figures. Bascially though any vacancy rate below 5% makes it ridiculously difficult to find a property. The last of my rental properties that was vacant was open for one inspection on a saturday, had 35 groups of people through it in 15 minutes, received 15 applications and it ended up renting for $100 a week more than the asking. That happens alot in Sydney.

I'll admit I guessed those figures. Bascially though any vacancy rate below 5% makes it ridiculously difficult to find a property. The last of my rental properties that was vacant was open for one inspection on a saturday, had 35 groups of people through it in 15 minutes, received 15 applications and it ended up renting for $100 a week more than the asking. That happens alot in Sydney.

Oh I agree, it really is academic whether it's .25% or 1.4%. May I ask what part of the city your rentals are in?

Getting way OT here but I'm going to a lunchtime debate tomorrow about whether Australian property is overvalued or not. Should be very interesting.

Oh I agree, it really is academic whether it's .25% or 1.4%. May I ask what part of the city your rentals are in?

Getting way OT here but I'm going to a lunchtime debate tomorrow about whether Australian property is overvalued or not. Should be very interesting.

Two in Bondi Beach, one in Granville, one in Adelaide (long story).

You can probably guess where I had that recent experience !

I removed a few comments that were overly personalized and that could be seen as attacks on individual members. Feel free to disagree, but do not make personal attacks.

l'etoile
sr. moderator

Two in Bondi Beach, one in Granville, one in Adelaide (long story).

You can probably guess where I had that recent experience !

;)

Well, we're doing well so far. Our visas came in with no problems, the papers for the cat also came in with no issues. The movers are booked and the tickets are bought. We have a bank account ready to go that we have an appointment to activate the day we arrive. :)

Still no where to live once we land, though... There are a few boarding houses we're looking at (we'd have a private room, but shared bathroom and kitchen) and are also emailing people about temporary flat shares. As we get closer, I'm trying to be hopeful that we might get more responses. Cross your fingers for me?

Well, we're doing well so far. Our visas came in with no problems, the papers for the cat also came in with no issues. The movers are booked and the tickets are bought. We have a bank account ready to go that we have an appointment to activate the day we arrive. :)

Still no where to live once we land, though... There are a few boarding houses we're looking at (we'd have a private room, but shared bathroom and kitchen) and are also emailing people about temporary flat shares. As we get closer, I'm trying to be hopeful that we might get more responses. Cross your fingers for me?

Absolutely.

There are a number of cheap hotels in Randwick (e.g. http://www.thoroughbredmotel.com.au/) close to the racecourse.

We are talking very basic though might be OK for a week while you find something better.

http://www.randwick-serviced-apartments-sydney.com.au/index.html

Something like this is 130 odd a night for a min 5 night stay, doesnt look too shabby..

Christ, what a drama.

Sounds easier to buy.....(and I agree about getting on the plane to Melbourne).

Christ, what a drama.

Sounds easier to buy.....(and I agree about getting on the plane to Melbourne).

I'll tell ya what, you move UNSW to Melbourne, and it's a deal! :p And, yes, I had no idea renting would be this difficult. I've lived all across Canada as well as in various locations in Europe, and renting was never as much of a hassle as it seems to be in Australia. I keep telling myself that no more -40 in the winter will make it worth while! :) At least I know what I'll be facing, though, which is invaluable. I can't imagine the stress of learning all this after l had arrived...

Another alternative for a short term stay at low cost is here:

http://www.hotelbondi.com.au/home/html/hotel_bondi_.html

Right across the road from the beach. A great start to any stay in Australia. If you choose to go there though whatever you do don't get a room at the front of the hotel (unfortunately the only ones with beach views) as there is a bar below it which is open until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays .... the other rooms in the hotel can also be a little noisy but not so much I wouldn't recommend people staying there.

Don't live in Coogeee - Sydney has so much more to offer than that part of the world as nice as it can be.

Give the Northern Beaches a go if anything.

Transport can be expensive - but buying a weekly ticket if you know you'll be travelling regularly will help you to save some money.

Don't live in Coogeee - Sydney has so much more to offer than that part of the world as nice as it can be.

Give the Northern Beaches a go if anything.

Transport can be expensive - but buying a weekly ticket if you know you'll be travelling regularly will help you to save some money.

If the OP's husband is working at UNSW, why on Earth would you suggest they live on the Northern Beaches? It's a nice part of Sydney, but it has no rail line, and probably the worst arterial road (Military Rd/Spit Bridge). The OP would be looking at 75-90 minute commute each way from there.

If the OP's husband is working at UNSW, why on Earth would you suggest they live on the Northern Beaches? It's a nice part of Sydney, but it has no rail line, and probably the worst arterial road (Military Rd/Spit Bridge). The OP would be looking at 75-90 minute commute each way from there.

Agree, that would be a silly place for the OP to start off. If, after some time in Sydney, she and her husband decided that they wanted to live there for some reason, that would be different – they'd be doing so in full knowledge of the transport and commuting situation. Manly itself or the Lower North Shore (Mosman, Cremorne, Neutral Bay, Waverton) etc would make more sense than the Northern Beaches — ferry to Circular Quay and then a bus to the UNSW, but the Lower North Shore is very expensive and not nearly as convenient as the places that have been discussed (including Coogee...).

Nothing helpful to add so just wishing the OP luck -and after all as you are renting you have the mobility to change areas later on once you get settled just finding something acceptable is the aim -not your forever home (yet) :)

I hope you'll continue to keep us updated on your quest

Nothing helpful to add so just wishing the OP luck -and after all as you are renting you have the mobility to change areas later on once you get settled just finding something acceptable is the aim -not your forever home (yet) :)

I hope you'll continue to keep us updated on your quest

Thank you! Just to update, we have arranged a flat share in a house in Maroubra with another researcher. We've signed on for 6 months. It's not ideal, but it means we'll have a chance to get to know the city and we'll be able to save a bit of money while we're at it. Hopefully by the end of 6 months we'll be in a much better position to find our own place. It's a huge weight off to know we have a temporary home!

We're still planning on three nights in a hotel upon landing in order to recover from the trip and to have a bit of a mini vacation before facing up to real life again. :)

Try to get some utility bills in your name at that flat share (gas, electricity, phone, even insurance, almost anything will help that proves address); that will do wonders for trying to rent on your own 6 months later.

And likewise see if you name can be put on the lease for the flat so that you have agent / landlord references. Maroubra beach is great. Nice and quiet.

And likewise see if you name can be put on the lease for the flat so that you have agent / landlord references. Maroubra beach is great. Nice and quiet.

We will be on the lease, so hopefully that will help later on. And I will see about getting a bill or two in our name as well. Our movers come in 10 days! Eek! :eek:

At least having a house makes it much better for your cat! Let us know how it goes. Do you have a share of the whole house, or is it one of those old mansions with zillions of flats? How much is it costing?

Thank you! Just to update, we have arranged a flat share in a house in Maroubra with another researcher. We've signed on for 6 months. It's not ideal, but it means we'll have a chance to get to know the city and we'll be able to save a bit of money while we're at it. Hopefully by the end of 6 months we'll be in a much better position to find our own place. It's a huge weight off to know we have a temporary home!

We're still planning on three nights in a hotel upon landing in order to recover from the trip and to have a bit of a mini vacation before facing up to real life again. :)
This all sounds to be a sensible way to go. Good luck with the move, and I hope you settle in to Sydney quickly and well. :)

At least having a house makes it much better for your cat! Let us know how it goes. Do you have a share of the whole house, or is it one of those old mansions with zillions of flats? How much is it costing?

It looks to be a midsize, older style house. But our room is actually pretty large and we could break it into a sitting section and a sleeping section. We will share the rest of the house, though in a bit of good luck our flatmate is a field researcher, so he's gone for weeks at a time several time per term. We'll be paying $320 per week. I'm excited to be a 15 minute walk from the beach! :D

When we land we'll activate our bank accounts, apply for a credit card, and make a trip to Ikea for a bed, which is the only thing we'll need right away. (Unless anyone has any suggestions for a better place to get a decently priced bed?!)

Here's an embarrassing story to share that will hopefully make someone giggle: I had to run out yesterday to get milk. I realized the expiry date on the milk was after we leave and started to cry in the store. My husband lovingly hugged me up, wiped the tears from my eyes, and then told me, "I'm going to tell EVERYONE." I think the stress of moving is finally getting to me!

Ikea is convenient as it sells the bed, mattress, pillows, sheets, blankets ... all in one place and well-priced. Sometimes Sheridan can be found cheaply but not often. Otherwise http://www.gumtree.com.au has cheap furniture esp. old chinese, if you want to avoid flat-packs and don't mind used.

If want something really cheap - try going to fantastic furniture. Of course quality is an issue, but then for short term is fine:

http://www.fantasticfurniture.com.au/ProductFinder/c/packages/bedroom

Ikea is a bit of pain to get to from Maroubra as it's over the other side of town (there is a new one opening 10mins from Maroubra, but not until the end of this year). Remember also that Ikea will only deliver the next day after you buy, and only Monday through Saturday. Ikea is open late every night (I think either 10 or midnight). My suggestion would be to go out there on a Friday night and arrange delivery for the Saturday.

Ikea is convenient as it sells the bed, mattress, pillows, sheets, blankets ... all in one place and well-priced. Sometimes Sheridan can be found cheaply but not often. Otherwise http://www.gumtree.com.au has cheap furniture esp. old chinese, if you want to avoid flat-packs and don't mind used.

If want something really cheap - try going to fantastic furniture. Of course quality is an issue, but then for short term is fine:

http://www.fantasticfurniture.com.au/ProductFinder/c/packages/bedroom

Ikea is a bit of pain to get to from Maroubra as it's over the other side of town (there is a new one opening 10mins from Maroubra, but not until the end of this year). Remember also that Ikea will only deliver the next day after you buy, and only Monday through Saturday. Ikea is open late every night (I think either 10 or midnight). My suggestion would be to go out there on a Friday night and arrange delivery for the Saturday.

Thank you both! I will definitely check Gumtree, I don't mind used for most things. I do want a new mattress, though. And thanks for the tip on Ikea, too, that will work out great. :)

Today is moving day and my movers are just taking away the last boxes. We packed the entire lives of 2 people in 27 boxes! They are coming via ocean liner and should arrive in about 6 weeks. The movers said it was the smallest move they've ever done, so I guess we did okay sorting and bringing only the really important stuff.

Now we have the weekend to recover and then we leave at 8 am, Monday morning for 6 days with family before officially heading to our new home.

Edit: I just peeked at the Fantastic Furniture site. It's pretty impressive. Would stuff from there see us through three years, do you think? I don't really want to invest in all new expensive stuff, only to have to sell it off cheap in three years time...

IKEA is open till 9pm weekdays, and till 7 PM weekends.. Which is a big improvement on a couple of years ago when they only had late trading on Thu!

I reckon FF would be good for 3 years.. a good timelime.. and lucky the nearest one is only about 15 mins away,

http://www.supacentamoorepark.com.au/store/ with lots of other Homemaker type stores..

The university has steady demand for used cheap furniture, due to the turnover of students, and used Ikea tends to keep it's value surprisingly well -- you would get 50% back for much of it, certainly for things like wardrobes (depending on the age of the house you are renting, it may not have built-in closets, which were luxury items in Australia until not so many years ago!). Lots of furniture alternatives, but probably best to buy light and utilitarian rather than heavy solid wood and nice finishes. Australia has some fantastic solid wood, also ample supply from Bali and china (of antiques or made to look antique). The advantage with selling Ikea is that often the buyer can buy add-ons to change the piece, which makes it more desirable as a resale. For example all the storage unit modules (doors/mirrors/desks/drawers)

I think fantastic furniture would be fine for three years. You have to be a little handy to put it together though - it's not as well designed as Ikea (instructions not as good, more nailing, etc). I'd check out both. I wouldn't buy a mattress from either though - Ikea mattresses are average at best you'll get something better for the same money from specialist store.

Do they still have Freedom in oz? That is the other alternative. I don't know if the Moore Park SupaCentre is still functioning but that would be the place to shop for everything.

As a landlord in the area I will add my two bobs worth. The issue is that an active landlord will have specific preconditions to who he/she is willing to rent to. That will require both job and rental references and a history of both stable employment and stable rental payment. As someone has said earlier the reason that one does one's due diligence early on is to try to ensure that there are less dramas during the course of the lease. In my experience the good landlord agents will actually call the references to make sure that they are both genuine and not overly inflated.

Good luck with you stay in Australia.

Yes, Freedom is still around, but I wouldn't necessarily call their stuff cheap though.

The Supacentre is still in Moore Park and not far from maroubra. That would be where I would start.

Just a quick update, as everyone has been so very helpful and made the move much less stressful than it could have been!

We have arrived and are settling in just fine. We got our bank accounts working the day after we landed and got cell phones no problems. I love my pretty new iPhone! We have applied for a credit card, and are considering a car loan to help establish a credit history here. (I hate using credit for anything, and vastly prefer paying cash for just about everything... But it makes sense in the case, I think.)

I took the advice of going to the Supa Center and found a great deal on a beautiful sofa and chair set, and went to Fantastic Furniture for a dining set. Our new place is in a great neighbourhood, and we're doing really well. I have already gotten my teaching qualifications recognized, and am on the job hunt!

Thank you again (I know I keep saying it, but I really mean it!) for all the help and advice!

Just a quick update, as everyone has been so very helpful and made the move much less stressful than it could have been!

We have arrived and are settling in just fine. We got our bank accounts working the day after we landed and got cell phones no problems. I love my pretty new iPhone! We have applied for a credit card, and are considering a car loan to help establish a credit history here. (I hate using credit for anything, and vastly prefer paying cash for just about everything... But it makes sense in the case, I think.)

I took the advice of going to the Supa Center and found a great deal on a beautiful sofa and chair set, and went to Fantastic Furniture for a dining set. Our new place is in a great neighbourhood, and we're doing really well. I have already gotten my teaching qualifications recognized, and am on the job hunt!

Thank you again (I know I keep saying it, but I really mean it!) for all the help and advice!

Great to hear it's all working out! ^^

Ember42, this all sounds like good news. Well done, and I hope it continues to go smoothly and happily!

Well done.