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Hi, interested as well as an American that just moved.

But that said, I think your biggest hurdle might be getting a loan. Not sure what Australia uses, but my US credit scores didn't follow me, so even though I have 800k nok income and good credit history, I currently can't even get a modest car loan.

They look at tax returns, total assets, bill payments, etc, and I was advised it will likely be at least a year (until I have a tax return showing a full year of living in Norway) that I can get a loan but could possibly be longer. It's nice to be free of the weird credit score system but it also means they need other ways to verify loan eligibility.

Just so you know what to expect initially.

Hei!
I came here from Germany more than two years ago, and I found it not difficult to get a loan for a house. The first bank I approached was a bit difficult, as you said, looking into payment profile, etc.  But the second and third bank I approached were both willing to offer, so I had a negotiation position. Now after two years of payback I found another competitive offer that helped me to negotiate new terms for my loan 
I think you just need to take your time and meet with different banks. They have to see that you are honestly interested.
Btw, the interests paid are reported automatically to the finance authority and help to get a tax deduction.
Good luck!
Andy

PS Finn.no it the right portal to look for real estate