Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming when everything is new and unfamiliar.

There are many moving parts in the home-buying process, and it can be difficult to know where to start. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. A mortgage broker can guide you through the process and handle much of the heavy lifting from comparing lenders and interest rates to supporting you at every stage of your home loan journey.

It’s no surprise that the majority of Australian borrowers choose to work with a mortgage broker. In fact, 77.3% of all new residential lending in the September 2025 quarter was facilitated by mortgage brokers.

Here are some reasons many first home buyers choose to work with a mortgage broker.

Understand your true borrowing power

One of the first steps in buying a home is understanding your borrowing capacity – that is, how much a lender may be willing to lend you.

While online calculators and AI tools can provide a rough estimate, they may not fully take into account your individual financial circumstances and long-term goals.

As your mortgage broker, we can get a clear picture of your income, expenses, liabilities and assets so that we can estimate how much you may be able to borrow and which loan options could suit you.

We can also organise pre-approval for your finance, so that you’re ready to go when you find the right home.

Helping you explore available options

As a first-time buyer, you may be entitled to various schemes or government incentives to help with your purchase. Examples include the Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme, First Home Super Saver Scheme, the Help to Buy Scheme, and the First Home Owner Grant.

As your mortgage broker, we’ll explain your options and whether you’re eligible for any government schemes or incentives. We may also discuss different ways to strengthen your application, such as the possibility of a family guarantor arrangement.

Mortgage brokers typically work with a wide range of lenders, from major banks to smaller providers, and can help compare loan options based on your financial circumstances and goals.

Tailored advice for first timers

As your mortgage broker, we’ll be with you each step of the buying journey, from pre-approval through to settlement and beyond.

The 2025 Helia Spotlight report found the top reason home buyers are turning to mortgage brokers to help them navigate the complex property market is for their knowledge and experience. We can explain confusing jargon and ensure you understand the true cost of the loan.

Ready to take the first step?

By using a mortgage broker to understand your borrowing capacity, handle the paperwork and get your finance in order, you can focus on the fun parts of buying your first home.

If you’re thinking of buying your first home, or would like to talk through your potential options, get in touch today! Let’s turn your home ownership dream into a reality.

With interest rates rising in recent months, many Australians have seen their mortgage repayments increase. As a result, more homeowners are starting to ask whether refinancing their home loan could help them reduce costs or improve their loan structure.

In fact, refinancing activity has surged. Last year, more than 640,000 homeowners switched their home loan, representing a 20 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

So, what exactly does refinancing involve, and how do you go about doing it?

Reasons to refinance

Refinancing involves taking out a new home loan to replace your existing one, either with your current lender or with a different provider. Once approved, the new lender pays off your existing loan and establishes the new mortgage in its place.

Common reasons to refinance include:

What’s the process?

The refinancing process is similar to applying for a new home loan, but it can feel much simpler when you know what to expect. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Review your goals

Start by chatting with your broker about why you’re looking to refinance – whether it’s to get a more competitive rate, access equity, or improve your loan features. We can also help you weigh up the potential costs involved, such as valuation fees, exit costs, or break fees if you’re on a fixed rate.

2. Compare your options

We’ll compare a range of lenders on your behalf to help identify loan options that may suit your needs and circumstances.

3. Get your documents ready

Similar to your original application, you’ll need to provide supporting documents like proof of identity, income details, employment information, and a summary of your assets and debts.

4. Submit your application

Once everything is ready, we’ll submit your application. The lender will usually arrange a valuation of your property, and if you’re borrowing more than 80% of its value, lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) may apply.

5. Approval and paperwork

If your loan is approved, you’ll review and sign the final documents before the new lender arranges to pay out your existing loan.

6. Settlement and next steps

Once your old loan is paid out, your refinance is complete. From there, you may be able to benefit from a more competitive rate, improved features, or access to available equity to support your financial goals.

Can I stay with the same lender?

If you’re happy with your current lender, you can absolutely stay with them – especially if your loan still suits your needs and you’re comfortable with the service you’re receiving.

But it’s still worth taking the time to see what else might be available, as rates, features and offers can change over time, and there may be opportunities to improve your overall loan setup.

Some long-term customers may find that newer borrowers are offered sharper rates or promotions – a difference sometimes referred to as the “loyalty tax”. Exploring your options, whether that’s negotiating with your current lender or considering a new one, can help you understand what’s out there and whether you’re still getting a competitive deal.

Like any major expense, it pays to shop around and compare your options to see what might suit you best.

What about cashback offers?

Some lenders may offer incentives, such as cashback offers, to attract new customers – which can be appealing depending on your circumstances.

Is now a good time to refinance?

You should be aware that there may be strict eligibility criteria attached, such as a minimum loan size. Importantly, the loan may not necessarily be better for you financially in the long run, so it’s important to consider the big picture before jumping on a cashback offer.

The decision about whether to refinance depends largely on your individual circumstances and goals. However, with mortgage rates increasing, it may be worth reviewing your home loan at the very least, to consider refinancing if it makes financial sense.

To find out whether refinancing could be the right move for you, get in touch today!

When it comes to buying an investment property, you don’t necessarily need to limit yourself to your own backyard.

Looking beyond your local market, including interstate, can open up new opportunities when the timing is right. Often referred to as “borderless investing”, this approach allows you to tap into growth in different regions.

However, investing in a different state comes with its own considerations. Understanding how it works, where the opportunities may be, and what to watch out for can help you make more informed decisions.

Here are three reasons borrowers are interested in interstate investing.

Diversify your property portfolio

One way some investors attempt to manage risk with their investments is to diversify. By spreading your investments across different locations, you’re not relying on just one market. If one area slows down, another might still be performing well. It may be a helpful way to balance your portfolio over time, reduce the impact of local downturns, and tap into a wider range of growth opportunities.

That said, diversification doesn’t remove risk entirely. Property markets can shift due to factors like economic conditions, housing supply and demand, and changes in interest rates.

 Seize opportunities

Investing interstate can give you access to markets that may be more affordable or experiencing stronger growth at different points in the cycle. Because conditions can vary across states, looking beyond your local area may help uncover opportunities you might not find closer to home.

For example, some markets have recently outperformed others. Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide have seen solid growth over a recent rolling quarter, with housing values rising 6.8%, 4.8% and 4.3% respectively, while Sydney and Melbourne recorded slight declines of -0.1% and -0.4%.

This highlights how opportunities may emerge within different parts of the country at different times. That said, markets can shift, and past performance isn’t always an indicator of what’s ahead.

Benefit from tax perks

Another reason some property investors consider buying interstate is the potential difference in land tax thresholds and rates across states or territories.

Land tax is an annual levy based on the value of your investment property (excluding your principal place of residence). This tax is managed independently by each state or territory (not applicable in the Northern Territory).

Keep in mind that Australian stamp duty rates and thresholds may also differ by state or territory.

Land tax laws are complex and change frequently. As tax outcomes depend on individual circumstances, it may be worth speaking with a qualified tax professional before making decisions based on tax considerations.

Key considerations to help balance the risks and rewards

Before investing interstate, it’s important to take a step back and assess both the potential upsides and the risks involved.

With that in mind, here are some key considerations before getting started.

1. Do your research

Before buying interstate, it’s important to do your homework. This means understanding the broader market, the city or town, and the specific suburb.

What are the rental yields and vacancy rates like?
How is capital growth tracking? What infrastructure is planned? What is the expected population growth, and how might it affect housing supply and demand?

Having access to this kind of insight can help you make more informed investment decisions, rather than relying on market sentiment or short-term trends. If you’d like a clearer picture of where opportunities may lie, get in touch for a personalised property report.

2. Choose your strategy

Before buying interstate, it’s important to consider your overall goals.

It may also be worth thinking about whether the property is likely to be negatively geared, where losses may be offset against your income. Or perhaps your property is positively geared, where rental income exceeds expenses.

Taking the time to define your strategy upfront can help guide your decisions, keep your investment on track, and ensure the property you choose aligns with your long-term goals.

3. Get a reliable local team

If you’re buying interstate, you’ll need a team of professionals on your side.

A reputable buyer’s agent can offer local market insight, help identify suitable properties, and negotiate or bid on your behalf. You may also need a conveyancer or solicitor to help with the legal transfers, as well as a building and pest inspector to assess the property’s condition.

Lastly, it may also help to speak with an experienced finance broker when considering your borrowing options.

How we can help

Navigating interstate investing and finding a loan that suits you can feel complex, but having the right support can make a difference. A broker can help you understand your options, compare lenders, and explore loan structures that may align with your goals.

We work with a wide range of lenders and can help you get a clearer picture of what may be available based on your individual circumstances. If you’d like to explore your options, feel free to reach out – we’re here to chat and help you figure out what might work for you.

Disclaimer: The information provided is general in nature and does not constitute financial, tax or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider seeking independent professional advice before making any investment decisions.

If you’re looking to buy your first home in 2026, one of the first big questions is whether an apartment or a house makes more sense for you, which often comes down to your lifestyle, financial situation and what you’re working towards.

Each option comes with its own benefits and trade-offs, so understanding the differences can help you make a more confident decision.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each.

Apartments

PROS

Lower price tag

Buying an apartment may allow you to get into the market sooner, as apartments are usually more affordable than houses.

Take Sydney, for example, where the median house price is more than double the city’s median unit price.

A lower purchase price usually means a smaller deposit and a more manageable mortgage.

Capital growth potential and rental appeal

Historically, houses have outperformed apartments in capital growth across most Australian cities. However, recent data shows that apartment prices have been growing faster than house prices in most capital cities – although Melbourne buyers are not quite convinced.

If you decide to rent the property out in future, apartments can possibly offer an attractive rental yield (the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s value) in some areas.

Lower running costs

Living in a smaller property means less electricity and gas usage, and therefore lower utility costs.

Less maintenance

Apartment living often comes with less maintenance and common areas are typically looked after by strata management. This means you’re less likely to spend weekends mowing lawns or tending gardens.

Security and lifestyle appeal

In some cases, apartments may provide added security compared to suburban houses, particularly in complexes with controlled access.

They’re also frequently positioned in central or well-connected locations, close to cafés and other everyday amenities.

CONS

Strata or body corporate constraints

Apartment living often comes with strata or body corporate rules, such as limits on pets, renovations, or noise. While these help manage shared spaces, they may feel restrictive for some owners.

Costly fees

Depending on the amenities, strata fees can be costly and are an ongoing expense. Over time, these fees can add to the overall cost of apartment ownership.

Less space and privacy

Living in a smaller space is not for everyone. Common areas can also mean sacrificing your privacy, as you’ll be sharing these areas with neighbours.

Oversupply risk

In suburbs with a high number of apartments, oversupply can affect demand and resale value. Boutique complexes with fewer units may perform better than large high-rise developments.

Houses

PROS

Long-term capital growth potential

Houses have traditionally delivered stronger long-term capital growth, largely due to the value of the land. That said, apartments in some cities have recently recorded faster short-term growth.

No strata constraints or fees

Unlike apartments, houses don’t come with strata fees or body corporate rules. This generally gives owners more freedom to renovate, extend, or personalise their home.

More space and privacy

Houses typically offer more internal and outdoor space, along with greater privacy. This can be appealing if you value room to entertain, garden, or enjoy facilities like a pool without interruption.

CONS

Higher entry point

Houses generally come with a higher purchase price and require a larger deposit. For some buyers, this may mean looking further from the CBD or their workplace to stay within budget.

More maintenance

With more space comes more upkeep. Houses typically require ongoing maintenance, and older properties can involve higher repair and renovation costs over time.

Higher costs

A higher purchase price can also mean higher upfront costs, such as stamp duty. Ongoing expenses like insurance and general upkeep may also be higher compared to an apartment.

Ready to get started?

There’s no universal ‘right’ answer as to whether an apartment or house is better. It all depends on your budget, lifestyle and long-term goals.

If you’d like help understanding your borrowing capacity or talking through your purchase plans, get in touch today. We can review your finances and help you assess which type of property may be the best fit for you.

Ready to get started?

There’s no universal ‘right’ answer as to whether an apartment or house is better. It all depends on your budget, lifestyle and long-term goals.

If you’d like help understanding your borrowing capacity or talking through your purchase plans, get in touch today. We can review your finances and help you assess which type of property may be the best fit for you.

For many property investors, 2025 offered compelling reasons to buy.

The cash rate came down three times and property prices soared in many markets, driven by lower rates, tight housing supply and government incentives. Meanwhile, rents continued to climb across much of the country.

So, following February’s cash rate increase, what might investors expect next? Below we explore key investment property trends likely to shape the market in 2026.

Uneven price growth across markets

National home values are projected to continue to rise, but growth is unlikely to be evenly spread.

Insights from Cotality’s Decoding 2026 report show that 87% of real estate agents and financial professionals across the property and finance sectors expect dwelling values to rise over the year ahead, while only 3.5% anticipate prices to fall.

Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia are considered the most bullish markets, with strong price performance supported by high population growth and limited supply.

Looking ahead, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane are expected to outperform Sydney and Melbourne, where price momentum softened towards the end of 2025.


Increased demand for dual-occupancy properties

Properties that can accommodate multi-generational living are expected to be in high demand throughout 2026.

As both housing prices and rents rise, more families are choosing to live together, making dual-occupancy homes particularly attractive to investors. This includes properties such as a main residence with a granny flat, duplexes, side-by-side townhouses, or homes with a detached studio or cottage that functions as a second dwelling.

These types of properties can offer investment benefits, including higher rental income, greater flexibility and reduced risk.

An uptick in regional investing

Investors seeking value outside the capital cities may have regional areas on their radar in 2026. Regional markets often offer lower entry costs than capital cities, high rental yields, and the opportunity for investors to diversify their portfolios across geographic locations.

In terms of price growth, regional areas have remained comparatively strong, yet they’re still feeling some pressure. Flexible working arrangements and lifestyle migration has meant more people are thinking of moving to regional areas, increasing demand for housing.

In 2025, regional dwelling values rose 9.7%, compared to 8.2% across the combined capital cities. Western Australia stood out, with a 16.1% annual increase, followed by regional Queensland, which saw values rise 12.6%. Regional Victoria had the lowest growth, up 6% in 2025.

Energy efficiency a priority

Energy efficiency and climate resilience are becoming increasingly important considerations for investors.

Properties with features such as solar panels, battery storage, electric vehicle charging, quality insulation and smart energy management systems are expected to be more appealing to tenants in 2026, which in turn can enhance long-term investment appeal.

Young buyers looking to rentvest

Rentvesting is expected to gain further momentum in 2026, particularly among younger buyers navigating affordability challenges.

Rentvesting involves renting in a location that suits your lifestyle, while purchasing an investment property in a more affordable area with the potential for solid rental returns.

This approach can suit buyers who value flexibility and lifestyle, are priced out of their preferred suburb, but still want to build wealth through property ownership.

Thinking about investing?

With the right knowledge and support, property investors can navigate 2026’s property market with confidence and take advantage of emerging opportunities.

If you’re considering purchasing an investment property this year, get in touch. We can help you understand your borrowing capacity, compare lender options and structure your finance to support your long-term investment goals.

Loyalty is an honourable trait, but not necessarily when it comes to your home loan.

Sticking with the same lender indefinitely may mean you’re paying what’s known as a ‘loyalty tax’. This often shows up as higher interest rates compared to what new customers are offered.

With interest rates on the rise, now could be a good time to check whether you are paying loyalty tax and it may be worthwhile exploring your options along the way.

What is loyalty tax?

Loyalty tax refers to the extra cost some borrowers pay simply by staying with the same home loan provider over time.

To attract new customers, lenders often advertise lower interest rates or special offers that aren’t automatically passed on to existing borrowers. As a result, long-term customers can end up paying a higher rate without realising it.

In some cases, the longer you remain with one lender, the more a loyalty tax can creep in. That’s why reviewing your home loan from time to time can help ensure you’re still on a competitive rate.

Interest rates aren’t the only area where loyalty tax can apply. In some cases, long-standing customers may miss out on special offers, encounter additional fees, or receive a lower standard of customer service than new customers.


Why it pays to review your home loan

Whether it’s your utilities or your mortgage, comparing providers can help you identify areas to save. While the amounts may seem small at first, they can accumulate over time and contribute to broader financial goals.

What to do if you’re paying loyalty tax

Compare rates

Start by checking how your current interest rate compares with the rates your lender is advertising to new customers. If there’s a noticeable difference, it may be time to take action.

Request a lower rate

You may also consider negotiating directly with your lender to see if a more competitive rate is available. In some cases, lenders may apply a discretionary discount to retain existing customers.

Having a strong credit history and a lower loan-to-value ratio can help strengthen your negotiating position.

Shop around and refinance

If you’d like to see what else is out there, we can compare home loans across the market for you. If we find a more suitable or competitive option, refinancing could be worth a look and it may even give you access to new customer offers.

We’ll break down the potential savings and explain any costs involved, so you can decide with confidence.

Ready to say goodbye to loyalty tax?

When it comes to home loans, it doesn’t pay to set and forget. Regularly reviewing your mortgage and comparing options can help reduce the risk of paying a loyalty tax.

The good news is that refinancing is generally more straightforward than buying a property. There’s no contract of sale, no real estate agents, and often far fewer parties involved – just us and, in many cases, your lender.

To get started, get in touch today and we’ll help you run the numbers.

Nothing compares to that feeling of buying your first home. If you’re planning a 2026 property purchase, saving the deposit is often one of the biggest hurdles. Careful planning and perseverance can play a role in working towards this goal.

Here are some tips to help you work towards your savings target.

Set a savings goal

The first step is to work out how much you’ll need for your deposit. Check out what properties in your preferred suburbs are selling for, and from there, you can work backwards and estimate the amount of deposit you’ll require.

You may like to look into the Australian Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme, which allows eligible first-home buyers to enter the market with just 5% deposit. If you’re not planning to use the scheme, aiming for a 20% deposit may help you avoid lenders’ mortgage insurance (LMI).

Create a budget

Next, create a monthly budget. This can help you to understand how much you may be able to save.

Factor in your total monthly income after tax, then list all of your expenses. Don’t forget to include regular costs like rent, utility bills, insurance, and streaming services, as well as unexpected expenses like your car repairs.

There are loads of budgeting tools available to help with tracking expenses. Some apps even break down and track your expenses as well as provide suggestions to help you work towards your saving goals.

Automate your savings payments

If you don’t have a separate savings account yet, opening one may be a useful first step – for example, an account that offers interest and has low or no ongoing fees.

Setting up an automatic monthly transfer may help you build savings over time, with less day-to-day effort.

A strong savings track record is something lenders look for when assessing home loan applications, so this habit may be relevant when you’re preparing to buy.

Reduce spending

If you’re looking to make progress towards your savings goals, you may need to cut down on discretionary spending. That might mean saying goodbye to your gym membership and instead exercising outdoors. Joining the local library instead of buying books new. Or cutting down on meals out and limiting entertainment such as streaming services.

There are also ‘no spend challenges’ shared on social media, such as limiting clothing purchases for a period of time or reducing how often you eat out. Some people find these approaches to be helpful when reviewing their spending habits.

Ways to increase income

Some people consider ways to generate additional income when working towards a savings goal. This might include options such as tutoring, taking on additional hours at work, or exploring a side project.

You may also choose to review items you no longer use, such as sporting equipment, musical instruments or collectibles, and consider whether selling them aligns with your circumstances. Small amounts can contribute towards a savings goal over time.

Talk openly about your goals

Talking to your family and friends about your home buying goals can be helpful for some people in staying mindful of their plans. Social catch ups might look a little different in 2026, such as more dinners at home with friends rather than going out. Over time, these adjustments may support your savings efforts.

Being prepared

Buying your first home is exciting, and we’re here to provide information and support throughout the process.

As your finance broker, we can help you understand how much you may be able to borrow, explain the costs involved in buying a home (such as stamp duty and legal fees), and discuss finance options including pre-approval.

We can also explain whether you’re eligible for government incentives, such as the First Home Owner Grant or the First Home Super Saver Scheme. And if your deposit isn’t quite there yet, we can talk through what alternative options could be available to you.

Get in touch if you’d like to discuss your options.

Check out our FHB Booklet – 2025 update.pdf for more guidance.

Property investment looks different for everyone, with no single approach suiting every situation. As market conditions, lending rules and affordability, continue to change, planning and preparation are becoming an increasingly important part of the conversation for investors.

With a new year underway, many property investors are reviewing their goals and plans for the months ahead. Whether you already own an investment property or you are planning your first purchase in 2026, these are five key points many investors are keeping in mind.

1. Investment goals and overall strategy

Before diving into property listings, it can be helpful to be clear on what you want the investment to achieve. Some investors prioritise long-term capital growth, others focus on rental income, and many aim for a balance of both.

Your goals will often be shaped by your broader financial position, your risk comfort level and how long you plan to hold the property. These factors can influence the type of property you consider and the strategy that may suit you.

Commonly discussed strategies include buy-and-hold, negative or positive gearing, purchasing new or off-the-plan properties, or renovating to add value. Each option has potential benefits and risks, so it’s important to do your research and get professional advice about which may suit your circumstances.

2. Location and market selection

Where you buy can have an influence how your investment performs over time. Many investors look beyond their own suburb or city and explore opportunities across different markets.

This might include capital cities, regional centres or even interstate options as part of a diversification approach. Regional areas have attracted attention in recent years due to affordability advantages and local economic factors.

Understanding factors such as employment opportunities, infrastructure spending, population growth and rental demand can help you make more informed decisions about location.

3. Affordability and alternative ways to enter the market

Affordability remains a major consideration for investors heading into 2026, which has led many people to think more creatively about how they enter the market.

One approach often discussed is rentvesting. This involves renting in an area that suits your lifestyle, while purchasing an investment property in a more affordable or higher-growth location. For some people, this may offer a way to build a property portfolio without stretching themselves financially to buy where they live.

Exploring different entry approaches can help you consider whether your investment plans fit comfortably with your finances and lifestyle.

4. Focus on preparation rather than perfect timing

Trying to time the market perfectly can be challenging, even for experienced investors. Instead, many investors focus on being financially prepared, so they are able to respond when opportunities arise.

This usually means understanding your borrowing capacity, setting a realistic budget, and allowing for buffers such as interest rate changes, vacancies or unexpected expenses. For some buyers, securing finance pre-approval provides clarity and confidence before starting their property search.

Being organised and finance-ready can make the process smoother when decisions need to be made.

5. Professional support and reliable advice

Property investment involves more than just choosing a property. There are lending, tax, legal and ongoing management considerations to navigate along the way.

Many investors choose to work with professionals such as mortgage brokers, accountants, financial advisers, real estate agents, conveyancers and property managers. Each can play a role in helping you understand your options and navigate decisions along the way.

Having the right team around you can provide reassurance and help you move forward with more confidence.

Ready to explore your property plans for 2026?

Whether you are planning your first investment or reviewing an existing portfolio, understanding your finance options is a crucial step.

If you would like to discuss your borrowing capacity, equity position or pre-approval options, get in touch today. We are here to provide clear, straightforward guidance and help you move forward with confidence as you plan your property journey for 2026.

As interest rates shift and the property market evolves, your mortgage may not be something you set and forget. Just like your financial goals, your home loan needs can change over time, which is why it’s worth checking in regularly.

If you haven’t reviewed your loan in a while, now could be a good time to do a quick health check. Read on to see what your home loan health check could uncover.

Why reviewing your home loan matters

What worked when you first bought your home might not be the best fit anymore. A home loan review can help you assess where things stand today and whether there’s room to improve. Here’s what you might uncover:

1. More competitive rates

Lenders are constantly updating their rates and offers. You might now have access to a more competitive offer than when you first signed your loan, potentially saving you interest over the life of the loan.

2. Lower monthly repayments

Securing a lower rate or adjusting your loan structure can reduce your repayments and free up extra cash. This can give you more room in your budget or allow you to redirect funds toward savings or investments.

3. More suitable loan features

Offset accounts, redraw facilities, and flexible repayment options can influence how effectively you manage your mortgage. These features can help you reduce interest and gain more control over your day-to-day finances.

4. A loan structure that fits

As your goals change, your loan should evolve with you, and changes in your equity position may allow you to restructure your loan more effectively. Whether that’s accessing equity for renovations or investments or rebalancing your loan to better match your long-term goals.

5. Simplified finances through debt consolidation

If you’re juggling credit card debt or personal loans, rolling them into your mortgage could reduce your overall interest rate and make repayments more manageable, giving you a clearer financial picture.

6. Improved equity position

As your property value grows and your loan balance reduces, your loan-to-value ratio (LVR) may improve. A lower LVR may provide more competitive rates, reduce or eliminate lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), and open up more refinancing options.

Small changes may help to reshape your financial future

Even if your loan seems to be running smoothly, reviewing it regularly may highlight areas to consider. Small changes such as discussing competitive rates or adjusting your repayment frequency (for example, switching to fortnightly payments) may affect your loan over time.

Too often, homeowners stick with the same loan for years without exploring other options. A home loan health check gives you the chance to stay informed and make sure your mortgage still aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals.

Ready to review your loan?

Your mortgage is one of your larger financial commitments, and it may benefit from regular review. As the market shifts and your personal circumstances evolve, a review may help you consider your available options.

Reach out if you’d like a home loan health check to see whether your loan still aligns with your current circumstances.

First home buyers can now purchase a property with as little as 5 per cent deposit without copping lenders’ mortgage insurance, after the government’s expanded First Home Guarantee Scheme came into effect on 1 October. It’s expected that 70,000 first home buyers will make the most of the scheme in its first year of expanded access.

If you’re looking to purchase your first home, there are a few common mistakes to be aware of before you dive in.

But first, let’s take a look at the expanded scheme and what it means for buyers.

Unpacking the Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme

The scheme, formerly known as the Home Guarantee Scheme and now branded the Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme, aims to help more Australians to buy their first home sooner.

Eligible first-time buyers on all income levels can purchase a home with a 5 per cent deposit, without having to pay costly lenders’ mortgage insurance (LMI). The government acts as a guarantor for 15 per cent of the home loan.

Price caps on eligible properties have lifted, and there is now no limit on the number of people who can apply. First home buyers in Sydney, for example, could purchase a $1.5 million home with a $75,000 deposit. A $950,000 home in Melbourne would require a $47,500 deposit.

As a first-home buyer, it’s an exciting time to be entering the market. Here are some common mistakes to be aware of.

Potential pitfalls with first-home purchases

1. Underestimating your purchasing costs

Saving your deposit is only one piece of the puzzle. You also have to consider the other upfront costs of buying a home, which may include:

There are also ongoing costs to factor into your budget, such as council rates, water and utility costs, body corporate fees (for example, for apartments), maintenance and insurance. All of these need to be included in your budget.

2. Being led by emotion, not reason

It’s easy to fall in love with a property’s aesthetics and potentially blow your budget or overlook its flaws.

Take a critical approach when inspecting properties and make sure the property you settle on ticks your key boxes.

Remember that there will always be another property that you could call home, even if this one falls through.

3. Not getting pre-approval on your finance

Pre-approval is an indication of how much a lender is likely to lend you, based on an initial assessment of your income, expenses, assets and liabilities.

Getting pre-approval gives you a clear understanding of your spending limit, narrows down your property search and strengthens your ability to negotiate with sellers. You’ll be in a better position to make an offer or bid at auction with confidence, knowing your finances are in order and ready to go.

Pre-approval for a home loan usually lasts for 90 days.

4. Skipping the building and pest inspection

You may be tempted to skip a building and pest inspection to save money, but that could ultimately cost you thousands in the long run.

You’ll want to ensure the property is free of structural problems and unwanted pests like termites, or other issues like asbestos or rising damp, before purchasing.

Arrange the building and pest inspection before you sign the contract of sale to avoid unwelcome surprises.

Ready to get started?

Buying your first home is exciting, but it’s important to have experts on your team steering you in the right direction.

As your finance broker, we’ll run through your current financial situation and purchasing goals, then find you the right home loan for your specific needs.

We can also explain whether you’re eligible for any first home buyer government incentives that could help you achieve your goals sooner.

Get in touch today.

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