Barriers Busted for First Home Buyers
If you are a first home buyer or know someone who is, you would have probably heard the announcements and associated hype in the media about this being the best time for first home buyers to enter the market. If this is of interest to you, this month’s articles are a must read. We have gathered all the key information and summarised it for you.
The dream of home ownership is a tough one for many Australians to fulfil. After all, Australia is one of the most expensive countries to live in. But it’s not just the cost of living and property pricing that delays our property buying.
The road to home ownership can be a long and winding one for most. Considering the affordability of repayments, the location and lifestyle balance of the property, saving up the baseline entry level 20% deposit (if not, having to absorb further costs by paying lenders’ mortgage insurance (LMI)) and stamp duty are just some of the other factors to consider. In Australia, depending on age of the borrower and purchase price, it can take anywhere from two years to over six years¹ to save for a deposit. This of course is also dependent on the income and expenditure of individuals.
Yes, it can be tough to get a foot on the property ladder, but first home buyers (FHBs) are not deterred.
About a third of millennials and a quarter of all Australians plan to buy a property in the next two years with many using the lockdowns in 2020 to up the ante on their savings².
There is no better time than now for FHBs to dive in and make that commitment – if possible.
Here is why:
1. Only a 5% deposit and no lenders’ mortgage insurance (LMI) – until 30 June 2021 and only through certain lenders – for those who are eligible!
Under the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS) eligible first home buyers can buy or build a new home with as little as a 5% deposit.
Usually, a 20% deposit is required to avoid LMI costs (which can cost tens of thousands of dollars). But under the FHLDS, the government guarantees the remaining 15% of the value of the property purchase financed by the eligible first home buyer’s loan. Eligibility, property price thresholds and conditions apply.
2. One-off $15,000 grant to eligible owner-occupiers, including first home buyers
The Australian Government HomeBuilder grant provides eligible owneroccupiers, including first home buyers, with a grant to build a new home, substantially renovate an existing home or buy an off the plan home/new home. A $15,000 grant is available for contracts signed between 1 January 2021 and 31 March 2021.
The government has also extended the deadline to 14 April 2021 (inclusive) for those applying for the $25,000 which applies to eligible contracts signed on or after 4 June 2020 until 31 December 2020³. They have even lifted the property price cap for new build contracts in New South Wales to $950,000 and Victoria to $850,000 ($750,000 in all other states and territories).
Caution: lenders won’t assume you have this money because the grant is paid to you and not the bank – so be careful when working out how much money you have for the build (or even if T&Cs apply)!
3. Some lenders are offering bonus first home buyer incentives
From bonuses offered at settlement, conveyancing fee rebates, no account keeping and establishment fees, to no application and valuation fees – these are a few of the incentives offered by some lenders to attract first home buyers (however these include specific criteria and conditions).
4. Lenders’ mortgage insurance discounts are being considered by select lenders
Some lenders have been known to reduce the LMI to just $1 for eligible first home buyers! Others offer a percentage discount on LMI fees following settlement. Minimum deposits, maximum loan size and T&Cs apply.
5. Cash in on cash backs – certain lenders offer cashback incentives to first home buyers
Thousands of dollars of cashback to an eligible first home buyer with LMI and new purchase rebates are just some incentives that are on offer from some lenders.
Nabbing a great deal or incentive on your home loan could help you save money, but it is even more important to consider price (interest rates and fees) and features when choosing the right home loan
6. Stamp duty concessions are available in some states
Besides saving for a deposit, stamp duty can be another big barrier to home ownership. However, most states and territories offer some assistance on this cost, including some exemptions, for eligible first home buyers.
Download our guide to state-based government support available.
Accessing one or more of these schemes or incentives could provide the assistance you need to buy your first home. It could also potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars.
But before considering any of these options, CONTACT US, so we can help steer you through the various options that may be appropriate for your specific situation. It is important to understand the various terms, conditions and eligibility criteria.
A FHB opportunity awaits
If you are one of the lucky ones who have remained financially stable, this could be your opportunity.
While there are always varying peaks and troughs in different property markets across the country, now could be an ideal time for FHBs to get into the market… Why?
Historically low interest rates make borrowing cheaper than it has ever been
Government incentives, spending and infrastructure initiatives continue
Consumer confidence is returning as we adapt to the new normal
Simpler lending rules for home loans are expected shortly
Knowing where to start, taking the initial steps and navigating through the whole process can be overwhelming. We can step you through the process from the initial stages so you can rest assured you will be well informed for one of the biggest decisions in your life. We have the experience and knowledge, along with access to a wide array of lenders, to ensure you are successfully guided through your first home buying journey.
If you'd like help with assessing your personal and financial situation, as well as comparing the loans in the market to see if you're truly getting the right deal for you, then call Bob Malpass now on 0431 862 136, email [email protected]
Thanks for reading
Bob
PS: If you are still unsure about what incentives may be applicable to you or if you are eligible, have a chat to us TODAY. We have the answers for you.
Source:
1. This is how long it takes on average to save for a first home deposit in each Australian capital city | Business Insider'
2. Nearly a third of Millennials expect to buy property soon - The Adviser
3. HomeBuilder | Treasury.gov.au
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