First Home Buyer Home Loan:

Guide For First Time Buyers

Hey, first-time home buyers in Lennox Head! Are you on the hunt for a first home buyer home loan? We understand that diving into home ownership for the first time can be a bit confusing and overwhelming. Buying your first home is a huge step, but it can feel intimidating without proper guidance. That’s where our team of skilled mortgage brokers comes in to help you navigate the process of securing your first home buyer home loan, making things easier and less daunting for you!

Guide For First-Time Home Buyers:

first home buyer home loan - image left

Tips On Getting Your First Home Buyer Home Loan

When you’re ready to buy your first home, it’s important to keep your debt low. We recommend not taking out loans to pay for your deposit, especially if you don’t have a high income and a lot of extra money each month. You need to be able to handle all your payments, even if interest rates go up.

Most lenders want to see that you’ve saved at least 5% of the home’s price on your own over three months. This shows you can save money, help pay for your first home buyer home loan, and keep up with payments after you buy the house.

Remember, buying a home comes with extra costs, like Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). These costs vary with different lenders. If you can’t pay the LMI right away, ask your lender if you can add it to your loan. Some lenders might look at your rental history for the past year to see if you can pay back the loan. If you’ve paid your rent on time and haven’t missed any payments, it could count instead of savings.

To avoid paying the LMI premium, try to get a better interest rate first. If your family, like your parents, are willing to use their home’s value to help you, that’s great. This kind of family support can really help.

Everyone buying a home has different needs, so you need personalised advice. That’s where the mortgage brokers at ZEP Finance come in to help.

Who Qualifies As A First-Time Home Buyer In Australia?

What does it mean to be a first-time home buyer in Australia? It’s someone who has never bought a home before. If you’re aiming to be a first-time home buyer looking to get a first home buyer loan in Australia, there are a few steps you need to follow.

The most crucial step is saving for a deposit. Most lenders require you to have at least 20% of the home’s value as a deposit. You’ll also need to get pre-approved for a mortgage and then start house hunting within your budget.

first home buyer home loan - image right
first home buyer home loan - image left 2

Tips On Getting Your First Home Buyer Home Loan

When you’re ready to buy your first home, it’s important to keep your debt low. We recommend not taking out loans to pay for your deposit, especially if you don’t have a high income and a lot of extra money each month. You need to be able to handle all your payments, even if interest rates go up.

Most lenders want to see that you’ve saved at least 5% of the home’s price on your own over three months. This shows you can save money, help pay for your first home buyer home loan, and keep up with payments after you buy the house.

Remember, buying a home comes with extra costs, like Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). These costs vary with different lenders. If you can’t pay the LMI right away, ask your lender if you can add it to your loan. Some lenders might look at your rental history for the past year to see if you can pay back the loan. If you’ve paid your rent on time and haven’t missed any payments, it could count instead of savings.

To avoid paying the LMI premium, try to get a better interest rate first. If your family, like your parents, are willing to use their home’s value to help you, that’s great. This kind of family support can really help.

Everyone buying a home has different needs, so you need personalised advice. That’s where the mortgage brokers at ZEP Finance come in to help.

Advantages Of Choosing A Mortgage Broker For First-Time Home Buyers

If you’re buying your first home in Lennox Head, and want to secure a first time home buyer loan, you might think about going straight to your bank. This is a common choice for many first-timers who aren’t sure what a mortgage broker does.

However, when you work with a trusted mortgage broker for first home buyers, like our team here at ZEP Finance, you’ll see a lot of benefits. These can make buying your home easier and save you money. Here’s how a mortgage broker specialising in first home buyer home loans can be a great help:

Wide Range of Options

A mortgage broker has access to a variety of loan products from different lenders. This means you get to compare and choose from a broader selection than a single bank can offer.

Expert Guidance

Mortgage brokers are experts in the field. They can guide you through the complexities of home loans, helping you understand the terms and conditions in simple language.

Personalised Service

Brokers take the time to understand your specific situation and needs. This personalised approach ensures you get a loan that’s tailored to your circumstances.

Save Time

Searching for the right home loan can be time-consuming. A mortgage broker does the legwork for you, saving you valuable time that you can spend on finding the perfect home in Lennox Head.

Cost-Effective Solutions

Brokers often have access to exclusive deals and can negotiate better rates on your behalf, potentially saving you money over the life of your loan.

Stress Reduction

Navigating the home-buying process can be stressful. A mortgage broker simplifies the process, reducing the stress associated with loan applications and approvals.

Local Market Knowledge

A local mortgage broker in Lennox Head will have specific knowledge about the area’s real estate market, which can be invaluable in making informed decisions.

Ongoing Support

Even after securing your loan, mortgage brokers often provide ongoing support and advice, helping you manage your mortgage effectively as you settle into your new home.

Guide To First Home Loan Grants In Queensland

Buying your first home is a big step, and it can feel overwhelming, especially when you think about the costs involved. But if you’re a first-time home buyer in Australia, especially in Queensland, you’re in luck because there’s extra help available. The government has set up various programs to support and encourage people who are buying their first home.

Why Should You Look Into First Home Loan Grants?

These grants are there to help ease the financial strain of buying a home. They can lower the initial costs a lot, making it easier for many Australians to own a home. These grants also help boost the housing market and the construction industry, which is good for the economy.

Who Stands to Gain?

If you live in Queensland and are thinking about buying your first home, these grants could be really useful for you. They’re for all sorts of buyers, whether you want an existing home or plan to build a new one.

Grants Available In Queensland

Queensland offers its own set of grants, designed for the specific needs of its residents. If you’re starting your home-buying journey in Queensland, it’s a good idea to check out these grants and incentives. They could offer significant financial help:

Queensland First Home Owners' Grant

This grant is for first-time homebuyers who are buying or building a new home. The grant amount and eligibility criteria can vary, so it’s important to check the latest details.

Stamp Duty Concessions

First home buyers in Queensland may be eligible for concessions on stamp duty, particularly when purchasing a first home or a new home. These concessions can significantly reduce the overall cost of purchasing a property.

First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS)

This national scheme assists first home buyers to purchase a home with a smaller deposit, sometimes as low as 5%, without needing to pay for Lender’s Mortgage Insurance.

Queensland Housing Finance Loan

This loan may be available to first home buyers who can afford to buy a home but are unable to secure private finance from a bank or building society.

First Home Super Saver Scheme

This national scheme allows first home buyers to save funds for their first home within their superannuation fund, taking advantage of the concessional tax treatment.

Stress Reduction

Navigating the home-buying process can be stressful. A mortgage broker simplifies the process, reducing the stress associated with loan applications and approvals.

It’s important to note that the availability and specifics of these grants and schemes can change, so for the most accurate and current information, it’s best to consult directly with the Queensland Government or a qualified mortgage advisor.

first home buyer home loan - image left 3

FHB Schemes In NSW: A Comprehensive Guide For First Home Buyers

The New South Wales (NSW) government offers a range of financial assistance programs, known as FHB schemes, to help first home buyers purchase their first property. These schemes aim to make homeownership more affordable and accessible for eligible individuals and families.

The First Home Owner (New Homes) Grant (FHOG) is a one-off $10,000 grant provided by the NSW government to eligible first home buyers who purchase or build a new home. The grant is intended to reduce the upfront costs associated with buying a property.

Eligibility criteria for the FHOG:

  • You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
  • You must be aged 18 or over
  • You must not have previously owned a home in Australia
  • The property must be located in NSW and valued under $800,000
  • You must intend to live in the property as your primary residence for at least six months

Application process and requirements:

  • You must apply for the FHOG within six months of exchanging contracts on the property
  • You must provide supporting documentation, such as proof of identity, income, and property valuation

The First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme (FHBAS) provides concessions on transfer duty for eligible first home buyers purchasing an existing home, a new home, or vacant land to build on.

Eligibility criteria for the FHBAS:

  • You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
  • You must be aged 18 or over
  • You must not have previously owned a home in Australia
  • The property must be located in NSW and valued under $1,000,000

Transfer duty exemptions and concessions for eligible first home buyers:

  • If you are purchasing a new or existing home valued up to $800,000, you are eligible for a full exemption from transfer duty
  • If you are purchasing a new or existing home valued over $800,000 and less than $1,000,000, you are eligible for a concessional rate of transfer duty
  • If you are purchasing vacant land on which you intend to build a home, you are eligible for an exemption for land valued up to $350,000 and a concessional rate for land valued over $350,000 and less than $450,000

How to apply for the FHBAS:

  • You must apply for the FHBAS within three months of the date of exchange of contracts on the property
  • You can apply online or by mail
  • You must provide supporting documentation, such as proof of identity, income, and property valuation

The Shared Equity Home Buyer Helper (SEHBH) is a scheme that assists eligible first home buyers who would not be approved for a mortgage without additional support. The scheme provides a 40% equity contribution to the purchase of a property, allowing borrowers to reduce their mortgage loan amount and improve their affordability.

Eligibility criteria for the SEHBH:

  • You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
  • You must be aged 18 or over
  • You must not have previously owned a home in Australia
  • You must be employed as a nurse, midwife, paramedic, teacher, early childhood educator, or police officer
  • Your household income must not exceed $125,000 per annum
  • The property must be located in NSW and valued under $900,000

How the scheme works and the benefits it offers:

  • The NSW government provides a 40% equity contribution to the purchase of the property
  • The borrower is responsible for the remaining 60% of the purchase price
  • The government’s equity contribution is registered as a mortgage on the property
  • The borrower pays rent to the government for their equity share
  • After five years, the borrower can choose to purchase the government’s equity share, sell the property, or refinance their mortgage


Application process and requirements:

  • You must apply for the SEHBH online through the Service NSW website
  • You will need to create an account and provide your personal details, income information, and property details
  • You will also need to upload supporting documentation, such as proof of identity, income, and employment
  • Once your application is submitted, it will be assessed by the NSW government
  • If your application is successful, you will be contacted by the government to discuss the next steps
  • The next steps will include attending a financial counseling session and signing a purchase contract for the property

In addition to the FHB schemes mentioned above, there are a number of other financial assistance programs available to first home buyers in NSW. These include:

  • KeyStart home loan scheme: This scheme offers a discounted mortgage interest rate to eligible first home buyers
  • First Home Super Saver Scheme: This scheme allows eligible first home buyers to make voluntary contributions to their superannuation account to save for a deposit on a home
  • Additional resources and support for first home buyers: The NSW government provides a range of resources and support to help first home buyers navigate the home buying process. This includes information on finding a home, obtaining finance, and budgeting for homeownership.

The NSW government offers a range of FHB schemes to help first home buyers purchase their first property. These schemes can provide financial assistance, tax concessions, and other support to make homeownership more affordable and accessible. It is important to seek advice from a mortgage broker to understand which FHB scheme is most suitable for your individual circumstances.

First Home Guarantee Scheme

Another scheme that first home buyers can take advantage of is the First Home Guarantee Scheme. The First Home Guarantee Scheme in Australia is a significant initiative by the Australian Government, designed to assist first home buyers in entering the property market. This scheme allows eligible individuals to purchase their first home with a lower deposit, reducing the financial burden often associated with the initial stages of buying a property.

Eligibility Requirements for the First Home Guarantee Scheme

To qualify for the scheme, applicants must be Australian citizens over 18 years of age, purchasing their first home. They must not have owned property in Australia before and should have a taxable income of up to $125,000 per annum for singles or $200,000 for couples. The scheme is also open to eligible single parents and families under the Family Home Guarantee.

Benefits of the First Home Guarantee Scheme

Participants in the scheme benefit from potentially saving thousands of dollars in Lenders Mortgage Insurance, a cost usually incurred when a deposit is less than 20% of the property’s value. Additionally, the scheme can be used in conjunction with other government programs like the First Home Owner Grant, further easing the financial burden.

How the First Home Guarantee Scheme Works

The Australian Government, through the scheme, guarantees up to 15% of the value of the property, which means that buyers can secure a home loan with a smaller deposit. This guarantee is not a cash payment or a deposit for your home loan but serves as a security for the loan.

Property Types and Price Caps

The scheme covers various property types, including new and existing houses, apartments, townhouses, and vacant land for building. However, there are price caps on the value of the property you can purchase under the scheme, which vary depending on the location within the country.

How to Apply for the First Home Guarantee Scheme

To apply, prospective buyers should approach a participating lender or ask for the help of a mortgage broker. The application process involves providing proof of income, such as recent payslips and the previous year’s Notice of Assessment from the Australian Taxation Office, along with other standard loan application documents.

The First Home Guarantee Scheme is a valuable initiative for those looking to enter the property market. By reducing the deposit requirement and eliminating the need for Lenders Mortgage Insurance, it makes homeownership more accessible and affordable. Prospective buyers should research thoroughly and consult with participating lenders to understand how they can benefit from this scheme.

Useful Guide To Buying First Home Resources

Why Choose Us?

finance customer experience icon

Over 15 Years Experience

We have been servicing happy clients for more than 15 years and we can’t wait to help you achieve your property and financial goals.

finance copywriting icon

Get better access to lenders

With an outstanding range of lenders available through ZEP Finance, you know you are getting the right loan for you.
finance stairs icon

With you every step of the way

We don’t just find you a financial solution, we help you with everything from paperwork through to settlement, and everything in between.
finance medal icon

Award Winning Company

We love helping our clients and are so humbled to be recognised as award-winning mortgage brokers for our work.

Frequently Asked Questions By A First Home Buyer

A deposit is typically 20% of the sale price of a house. There are numerous programs that can help first time home buyers with their deposit.

A first-time home buyer loan is a type of mortgage that is specifically designed for people who are buying their first home.

There are a few different things that set first-time home buyer loans apart from other types of mortgages. For example, many first-time home buyer loans have lower interest rates than other types of mortgages. They may also come with more flexible terms, which can make it easier for you to afford your monthly payments.

You can go directly to a bank or a lender, but we recommend contacting a mortgage broker first. Mortgage brokers have access to a number of different lenders, and they will be able to help you find the best deal.

There’s a few things you need to know before you start looking at properties. Firstly, the upfront costs of buying a property can be quite expensive, so you’ll need to save up a decent deposit. You’ll also need to pay stamp duty on the purchase price of the property, and there may be other costs such as legal fees and mortgage establishment fees.

Before you start looking at properties, it’s important to work out what you can afford. Your borrowing power is based on your income and your borrowing capacity (the maximum amount of money you can borrow). To find out how much you can borrow, speak to a mortgage broker.

As a first home buyer in Australia, you will have access to a range of government assistance programs that can make purchasing your first home more affordable. Depending on your financial situation, you may be able to take out a low-interest loan from the government or even receive a grant to help you get started.

Speak with your bank or a local mortgage broker to find out more about the programs available in your area and what you may be eligible for.

The minimum deposit is 20% to avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance, but it’s always best to save as much as you can for a deposit to avoid high interest rates. You also need to account for things like homeowner’s insurance, property taxes, and maintenance costs. If you’re not sure how much you can afford, you can use our calculators. You can also consult with our mortgage brokers for a more comprehensive discussion.

The guarantor must be willing to cosign the loan and must have good credit. The cosigner is responsible for the debt if the original borrower does not repay it. This arrangement can be helpful because it allows the borrower to get approved for a loan and it also helps the lender because it reduces their risk.