amyb2009uk

Hi
I was just wondering if anyone has bought a house in Sydney or Brisbane while in the UK? and how you dealt with the first home buyers grant?
Were you able to apply for any exemption as you are working in the UK? or do you have to return home within the 12 months to live in the property for the 6 month minimum period.
Thanks

Petals

You have to reside in the property once settlement takes place for the prescribed period.

Centurion

The grant rules seems clear. You must move into your home that you receive the grant for within 1 year of buying it and must live there for a period of 6 months as your principal place of residence to retain the grant. If you don't then you will end up paying it back.

http://www.osr.qld.gov.au/first-home...og/index.shtml

kar-kier

Estate agents weren't keen on even letting me arrange a viewing, till I was in the country, never mind buying it!

flodsfive

We did this, and yes centurion is right. we moved in to the property in Nov after after buying it in June. applied for and received the grant once we were in Aus. Did'nt see it once although had seen a few houses down the road when on a reccie and did have family to look around it. Viewing room layout or plans is a must.

Was a tad stressful though, but mainly because we did'nt know the process

Good Luck

It worked out well for us.