What makes Australian real estate so costly compared to America, and why don't we invest in overseas properties?

I observed that premium properties in Australia are priced much higher than comparable homes in affluent U.S. areas. Why do Australians remain in a market with such expensive real estate?

imho, strict gov regs & limited land in aus force up property costs. ppl are also wary of abrd markets due to messy laws & extra risk. better to invest local where you know the drill and lower surprises

Australian high property prices often originate from a combination of stringent regulatory policies and inherent market factors. In my experience, the limited availability of developable land, enforced by strict zoning laws, naturally increases the value of available properties. Additionally, there is a strong domestic attachment in the investment culture, where local buyers feel more secure investing in familiar markets rather than facing the uncertainties of international markets. These elements collectively contribute to a market environment where the costs can rise steeply compared to more flexible systems seen in the U.S.

I’ve noticed that strict zoning laws and limited land supply really inflate prices. Could the strong local pride and regulatory environment be why Aussies stick to domestic markets? What do you think about the influence of government policies on this phenomenon?

I wonder if it’s partly our unique mix of land scarcity and cultural attachment that drives this. Do you think rough international market conditions could eventually tip Aussies towards diversifying? Would be cool to hear if anyone’s seen a shift over recent years.