Buying property in Australia from overseas is one of the most challenging property transactions you can undertake. Foreign investment rules, FIRB approvals, time zone differences, and the inability to physically inspect properties all add layers of complexity that most expats navigate alone — or hand entirely to a buyers advocate at significant cost.
Collings Property Advisory provides independent, fixed-fee guidance for expats who want professional support without paying full buyers advocacy fees of 1.5–3% of purchase price.
Common Mistakes Expats Make When Buying Australian Property
- Relying solely on online listings and photos without independent assessment
- Not understanding FIRB approval requirements and timelines
- Overpaying due to inability to attend inspections or auctions
- Choosing the wrong suburb for their investment or lifestyle goals
- Missing off-market opportunities that never appear on Domain or REA
What Does a Property Advisor Do for Expats?
We provide comprehensive property assessment using comparable sales analysis, suburb intelligence powered by GeeVee AI, investment analysis, and negotiation strategy. For expats who have found a property themselves, we assess it independently and manage the negotiation process on their behalf.
Property Advisor vs Buyers Advocate for Expats
| Factor | Buyers Advocate | Collings Property Advisor |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | 1.5–3% of purchase price ($15,000–$30,000 on a $1M property) | Fixed $4,500 + GST |
| Property search | Full search service | Advisory and assessment |
| FIRB guidance | Varies | Yes, included |
| GeeVee AI analysis | No | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do expats need FIRB approval to buy in Australia?
In most cases yes, unless you are a permanent resident or purchasing as a temporary resident with approval. We help you understand the rules and timeline before you make an offer.
Can you help me buy off-market as an expat?
Yes. Through our off-market portal we provide access to pre-market and off-market opportunities across Melbourne and Sydney that are never listed publicly.
Why Collings?
GeeVee AI gives expats the same property intelligence that local investors rely on. Combined with our fixed-fee advisory service, you get independent expertise without the full buyers advocate fee.
Book a free 20-minute advisory call today. Fixed fee: $4,500 + GST.
Visit collings.com.au/portal to get started.
Find your next property with Collings
Track suburbs, get matched to on-market and off-market listings, and manage your whole property search in one place. Access the Collings property portal.
