First Home Loan
How does it work?
Any information on this website is of a general nature only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before making any decisions. We recommend obtaining independent legal, financial, and tax advice where necessary.
the specifics
Step 1
We talk through your goals, budget, and how much you may be able to borrow.
We also explain deposits, LMI (lender’s mortgage insurance), and any government grants you could be eligible for.
First Chat
Step 2
You’ll likely need:
ID: Licence or passport, Medicare
Income: Payslips, tax returns
Savings history (to show genuine savings)
Other: Statements for any personal loans, credit cards, or HECS/HELP
We’ll also guide you through First Home Guarantee or FHOG paperwork if it applies.
Document Collection
Step 3
We compare lenders and find options that suit first home buyers. We explain things in plain English so nothing feels overwhelming.
Loan Options
Step 4
Application Lodgement
We prepare and lodge the application, including any grant applications.
Step 5
The lenders will assess your income, savings &/ or rent history, and deposit.
Conditional approval comes first, followed by full approval once all checks are cleared.
Lender Assessment
Step 6
Settlement
We walk you through signing contracts and coordinate settlement with your conveyancer.
Step 7
Ongoing
We stay in touch to review your loan over time and check in when you’re ready to upgrade or refinance.
Beyond Settlement
FAQ - First Home Loan
- Can I get a home loan with a small deposit?
Yes — some lenders offer low-deposit options for eligible first-home buyers. You may also qualify for the First Home Guarantee or Family Home Guarantee programs, which can reduce or remove the need for Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
- How does the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) work?
The FHOG is a one-off payment from the Victorian Government to help you buy or build your first home. The amount depends on the property’s value and location, and it’s usually paid at settlement or when your builder receives the first progress payment. (Other states have different grants & exceptions - contact us to find out more).
- What’s the difference between the FHOG and the Home Guarantee Scheme?
The FHOG is a cash grant from the state government, while the Home Guarantee Scheme (run federally by Housing Australia) helps reduce your deposit requirement — often as low as 5%, or 2% for single parents under the Family Home Guarantee.
- How much can I borrow as a first-home buyer?
Your borrowing capacity depends on your income, expenses, and deposit size. I’ll help you work through these numbers clearly so you know what’s comfortable — not just what a calculator says.
- Do I need to pay Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)?
Maybe not. If you qualify for a Home Guarantee Scheme place, you can often avoid LMI even with a smaller deposit. I’ll check your eligibility and explain the savings in plain terms. (See our video here explaining LMI)