While a 20% deposit can help you avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), many first-home buyers can purchase with as little as a 5% deposit, depending on the lender and their circumstances. Alongside your deposit, it’s important to budget for upfront costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and inspections.
Eligible buyers may also access first-home buyer grants or stamp duty concessions, which can significantly reduce the amount needed upfront.
Your borrowing capacity depends on your income, existing debts, savings history, credit profile, and overall financial position. Lenders assess these factors differently, which is why borrowing limits can vary from one lender to another.
We help you understand what you can realistically borrow before you start house-hunting, so you can search and negotiate with confidence.
There are thousands of home loan products available, each with different rates, features, and structures — from fixed and variable rates to offset accounts and split loans. The “right” loan isn’t just about the lowest rate; it’s about what suits your lifestyle, future plans, and budget.
We compare a wide panel of lenders to create a tailored shortlist of home loans designed specifically for your goals as a first-home buyer.
First-home buyer grants and concessions vary by state and territory, with different eligibility criteria and benefit amounts. These may include one-off government payments or reduced stamp duty on eligible purchases.
We guide you through what’s available, what you qualify for, and how to maximise your benefits — without the paperwork headache.
Pre-approval gives you an indication of how much a lender may be willing to lend, helping you narrow your property search and negotiate with confidence. While it’s not mandatory, many first-home buyers find pre-approval reassuring when attending inspections or bidding.
Pre-approvals are usually valid for a limited time and subject to conditions, which we’ll clearly explain upfront.
