7 of the best · Sydney, Australia
What a foreign buyer needs to know in Sydney: the federal rules on new and established homes, the vacancy fee, New South Wales surcharge duty and the advisers. We never publish prices.
Our 7 favourites, listed A–Z · Updated November 2026
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Three Sydney moments we keep going back to: the Manly ferry out of Circular Quay, the cliff walk from Bondi to Bronte in the early morning, and a tour inside the Opera House.
Federal rule
From 1 April 2025 to 30 June 2029, foreign investors are generally barred from buying established homes.
State duty
The extra stamp duty New South Wales charges foreign buyers of residential property.
What a foreign buyer needs to know first.
The back story
Foreign buyers in Australia must notify before buying, are channelled to new homes, and are barred from established dwellings until 30 June 2029; New South Wales adds a surcharge purchaser duty. What to know before you look.
Federal and state.
Federal rule
From 1 April 2025 to 30 June 2029, foreign investors are generally barred from buying established homes.
State duty
The extra stamp duty New South Wales charges foreign buyers of residential property.
Federal rule
An annual fee if a foreign-owned home is empty for more than 183 days a year.
In Sydney.
International firm
The head office of Savills in Australia and New Zealand, in the CBD.
The eastern suburbs
The Sotheby’s International Realty affiliate for Sydney, in Double Bay.
