If your over 50 Peter, apply for a retirement visa, with multiple entries, before I left Australia, I applied for a non-o 90 day single entry visa, when I got here, I applied for my retirement visa through Anna’s visa in Hua Hin, they did everything and took two days.
Come for an extended holiday first, travel around till you find somewhere that you like, rent in the area first to see if you like it, then, if your still open to buying, do so then.
I only rent because it’s a lot easier, if I want to move somewhere else.