When you have a mortgage, choosing between a fixed or variable loan can feel like a big financial decision, especially during a period of rising interest rates. The headlines can create a sense of urgency, but the right decision is less about reacting to the media and more about understanding how each option suits your financial situation.

A fixed rate means your interest rate and repayments stay the same for a set period, usually between one and five years and a variable rate can move up or down, typically in response to changes made by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).

A rising rate environment

When interest rates rise, banks will typically pass this increase on to mortgage holders, so variable repayments will generally increase. Lenders factor in your ability to service the loan if interest rates rise by a couple of points, but it can be helpful to determine whether your budget allows for a significant increase.

Fixed rates, however, often rise before official rate hikes occur because lenders price them based on where they expect rates to go. By the time rate rises are underway, fixed rates may already reflect expectations of further increases. This means locking in does not automatically guarantee a cheaper outcome. In some cases, fixed rates may already be higher than some variable rates because future increases have been factored in.

Certainty versus flexibility

One of the biggest considerations is how comfortable you are with uncertainty. If higher repayments would put pressure on your household budget, fixing your rate can provide stability. Knowing exactly what you will pay each month makes planning easier and can reduce financial stress.

Fixed loans can include limits on additional repayments and may involve additional costs if you refinance or sell your home during the fixed term. It is important to understand these conditions before committing

Variable loans often come with more flexibility. Many allow extra repayments, offset accounts and simpler refinancing options. This flexibility could help you pay down your loan faster and reduce the total interest you pay.

Having it both ways with a split loan

You do not have to choose one option exclusively. Many lenders allow you to split your loan between fixed and variable portions. This can provide a blend of protection and flexibility. Part of your loan is shielded from further rate rises, while the variable portion allows you to make extra repayments or adapt if your plans change.

A split loan will not remove risk entirely, but it can reduce the chance of feeling locked into the wrong decision if rates move in an unexpected direction.

Consider your future plans

Your life plans should also play a role in your decision. Changes in income, parental leave, renovations, career moves or buying or selling property can all influence which option suits you better. Fixed rates may work best when your situation is stable and predictable. If change is likely, having room to adjust can be reassuring.

If you are likely to move within a few years, the potential costs of breaking a fixed loan could outweigh the benefits of locking in.

If you decide to remain on a variable rate during a rising cycle, it can help to prepare in advance. Increasing your repayments voluntarily or building savings in an offset account can create a buffer so that future rate rises are less of a shock. This approach can also shorten the life of your loan if rates stabilise sooner than expected.

The right choice for you

There is no correct answer. Fixed rates may offer peace of mind and protection against further increases, where variable rates could provide flexibility and potentially benefit you if rate rises are less than expected.

The right choice depends on your financial position, your tolerance for risk and your plans. Interest rate cycles come and go. The goal is not to predict the market, but to choose a loan structure that supports your long-term financial wellbeing and helps you stay confident and in control as you work towards paying off your home.

If you would like clarity on what might work best for you, we are here to help. A quick review of your financial situation and loan options can give you confidence in your next move.

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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Nicholas Berry Credit Representative Number 472439 is a Credit Representative of Integrity Finance (Aust) Pty Ltd – Australian Credit Licence 392184.

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd (ABN 35 994 727 125) as a Corporate Authorised Representative (1316489) of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd (AFSL 225051). Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

Buying a home is a huge milestone and usually a pretty exciting one. It is also one of the biggest financial transactions most people will ever make, which unfortunately makes it a prime target for scammers.

One scam in particular, known as a property payment redirection scam or settlement scam, is becoming more common and more costly. Industry warnings from realestate.com.au and property exchange platform PEXA show that these scams are on the rise across Australia, with losses increasing year on year.

What is a property payment redirection scam?

A payment redirection scam usually happens in the lead-up to settlement, when buyers are exchanging emails with their real estate agent, solicitor or conveyancer. Scammers impersonate one of these trusted professionals and send an email that looks legitimate, often advising that bank account details have changed or need to be updated.

Realestate.com.au reports that these emails are often timed carefully to coincide with settlement deadlines, when buyers may be feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If the buyer follows the instructions, their deposit or settlement funds are transferred directly into the scammer’s account instead of the correct one.

Why these scams are so convincing

What makes this scam particularly dangerous is how realistic it can be. Fraudsters may use email addresses that differ by only a single letter or character, or copy logos, signatures and wording from earlier legitimate emails.

According to PEXA, scammers rely heavily on the volume of communication involved in a property purchase and the assumption that last-minute changes are normal during settlement.

How common is this scam?

The scale of the problem is larger than many people realise. Research conducted by PEXA found that 97% of Australians who had recently bought property, or were planning to buy, failed to identify warning signs in scam settlement emails, even though most believed they would be able to spot a scam. This research highlights how difficult these scams can be to detect in real-world situations.

The financial impact is growing rapidly. Reporting shows that losses linked to property buying and selling scams rose from around $13 million in 2021 to more than $43 million in recent years. This sharp increase reflects both the growing sophistication of scammers and the high value of property transactions.

Real-world examples include buyers losing hundreds of thousands of dollars after following fake payment instructions, with some individual losses exceeding $700,000 and even up to $900,000.

Disturbingly, PEXA’s Scam Awareness White Paper further found that around 40 per cent of people surveyed said they would still transfer funds after receiving a fraudulent settlement-style email, demonstrating the gap between confidence and actual scam detection.

Why property buyers are targeted

Property transactions are especially attractive to scammers because they involve large sums of money, strict timelines and frequent email communication. Buyers often expect last-minute requests and document changes, which makes an unexpected email feel normal. Realestate.com.au notes that scammers take advantage of this pressure, knowing that urgency can cause people to act quickly without verifying details.

How to protect yourself

• Any request to change payment details should always be confirmed by calling your solicitor, conveyancer or agent on a phone number you already trust.
• Treat last minute, unexpected or urgent emails with caution, particularly if they push you to act immediately or discourage you from double-checking.
• Do not use contact details from the email itself.
• Use secure platforms like PEXA Key to share bank details instead of email.
• Check email addresses carefully for small differences or unusual domains.
• Enable multi-factor authentication on your email account to avoid it being intercepted.
• Consider sending a small amount of money first and confirm it arrives.
• Watch for bank alerts, such as Confirmation of Payee warnings.

If you suspect a scam: contact your bank immediately, report it to Scamwatch and the Australian Cyber Security Centre, and notify your agent, conveyancer, and the police.

It is unsettling to know that scammers target people during such an important life moment, but awareness really is your strongest defence. With property scam losses continuing to rise across Australia, staying alert, asking questions and verifying payment instructions is more important than ever.

Buying a home should be exciting, not stressful, and if something does not feel right, it is always okay to pause and double-check before transferring any money.

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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Nicholas Berry Credit Representative Number 472439 is a Credit Representative of Integrity Finance (Aust) Pty Ltd – Australian Credit Licence 392184.

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd (ABN 35 994 727 125) as a Corporate Authorised Representative (1316489) of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd (AFSL 225051). Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

Slowing overall growth in an increasingly segmented market

Property values across Australia showed an overall slowing of growth over the quarter, moderating from 3.1% to 2.1% in the most recent figures.

The past quarter has seen an emerging divergence across the capital city housing markets, with Melbourne and Sydney values softening while the mid-sized capitals continue to record gains.

Perth is showing the strongest trend, with home values increasing by 6.8% over the quarter, followed by Brisbane and Adelaide recording rises of 4.8 and 4.3% respectively. Melbourne and Sydney have been less resilient to the February rate hike and the drop in sentiment, with home values down -0.4 and -0.1% over the rolling quarter.

Tim Lawless, Cotality’s research director, provided comment on this trend, “The clear slowdown in housing conditions across Sydney and Melbourne could signal an easing in growth conditions elsewhere down the track, but for now, the mid-sized capitals continue to see support from extremely low inventory levels, which is boosting the growth in values.”

Stronger growth at the lower end

Most cities are continuing to see homes at the lower end of the market driving growth, especially for houses. Across the combined capitals, lower quartile house values were up 1.3% compared with a 0.3% rise across the upper quartile.

“This trend of stronger growth conditions at lower price points is supported by intense competition for more affordable houses,” said Mr Lawless. “This is where first home buyers, investors and, progressively, mainstream demand is most concentrated.”

The regions

Regional housing conditions continued to show a stronger growth trend relative to their capital city counterparts, with values across the combined regionals index rising 3.2% over the quarter – compared to capital city values which recorded 1.8% increase.

The result marks a clear shift in market momentum as affordability, renewed internal migration and competitive conditions direct more buyers towards regional areas.

Gerard Burg, Cotality’s Head of Research for Australia, said the results point to a deepening divergence between city and regional markets.

“Affordability remains a powerful driver of buyer behaviour. With capital city prices still near record highs and stock levels tight, many households are once again looking to regional Australia for greater value and liveability.” Mr Burg said.

Time Lawless also acknowledged the competition at the lower end of the market which is influencing values, “There is a lot of competition for lower-priced properties.” Mr Lawless said. “First home buyers, investors and subsequent buyers are all competing across this sector of the market, while credit is less available across the higher price points due to serviceability constraints.”

Auction clearance rates and housing demand

New listings remain low across most of Australia. According to Cotality, the number of homes advertised for sale is down 5% compared to the same time last year, and 9.2% below the five-year average.

Perth listings remain 48% below their five-year average, with Brisbane 31% below and Adelaide 23% lower.

Advertised stock levels are also low in Sydney and Melbourne, although both cities have seen a clear pickup in the amount of new listings through February.

“Vendors are looking more motivated in Sydney and Melbourne, possibly looking to beat a further softening in selling conditions as clearance rates ease and demand slows,” Mr Lawless said. “If the typical seasonal pattern holds, the flow of new listings is likely to strengthen leading into Easter.”

Looking ahead

Market sentiment is becoming more cautious due to the February cash rate increase which eroded borrowing power and repayment capacity as well as fears of further rate hikes, this, coupled with poor affordability is tempering the pace of growth.

Credit conditions are also tightening, with APRA’s introduction of limits on high debt-to-income (DTI) lending from February 1 which set the tone for a more cautious lending environment in 2026.

On the positive side, several factors continue to support housing values. Housing supply remains low. Employment figures point to a tight jobs market, helping to underpin household income security and mortgage serviceability, even as real wages have come under pressure, while government support for first home buyers is also providing some offset to broader affordability challenges.

These factors point to a more segmented and softer market through 2026, with growth more evident in the lower end of the market and the regions.

Dwelling values over the quarter

Melbourne

The Victorian capital decreased by -0.4% over the quarter, taking the city’s median dwelling price to $826,132. Investors should take note that the gross rental yield figure for Melbourne is 3.7%.

Sydney

Sydney also showed a decrease in property values over the period of -0.1%, resulting in a median of $1,296 million. The gross rental yield for the Harbour City remains the lowest of the capitals at 3.0%.

Brisbane

The Queensland capital continues to record the second most expensive spot for dwelling values at $1,080 million and a quarterly rise of 4.8%. Brisbane has recorded a gross rental yield of 3.3%.

Canberra

The national capital recorded a rise of 1.3% during the quarter with the median now sitting at $903,374. For Canberra, the gross rental yield is 4.1%.

Perth

Perth again recorded the strongest increase of all the capitals, growing by 6.8% over the quarter and taking its medium to $989,211. Perth recorded 3.8% gross rental yield.

For more information about how you might be able to purchase a property in the current market, get in touch with us today 0n 03 9723 0522.

Note: all figures in the city snapshots are sourced from: Cotality national Home Value Index (December 2025)

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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Nicholas Berry Credit Representative Number 472439 is a Credit Representative of Integrity Finance (Aust) Pty Ltd – Australian Credit Licence 392184.

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd (ABN 35 994 727 125) as a Corporate Authorised Representative (1316489) of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd (AFSL 225051). Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

If you are planning to buy your first home in 2026, staying across the latest government support could make a bigger difference than you think, so we’ve provided a wrap up of all the latest schemes up for consideration in the coming year.

Schemes and incentives change regularly, and knowing what help is available right now could be the key to getting into the market sooner, with less upfront cost and less pressure on your budget.

From low deposit loan options and assistance for buyers still saving, to state schemes and new programs aimed at boosting housing supply, there is a range of support designed to help first home buyers, not just get a foot on the door, but also take that first step with confidence.

Here is what you need to know.

The First Home Guarantee (FHBG)

Under this scheme, eligible buyers can purchase a property with a 5% deposit and avoid paying lenders mortgage insurance (LMI). This can save buyers tens of thousands of dollars and significantly reduce the time it takes to save for a home deposit.

More than 21,000 first home buyers have used the First Home Guarantee to enter the property market since the scheme saw a large-scale expansion last October and the government forecasts about 70,000 buyers will access the expanded scheme in its first year.

The expansion saw the removal of limits on the number of places available. Previously, only a set number of buyers could access the scheme each year. Now, any eligible first home buyer with a 5% deposit can apply.

Income caps were also removed, meaning buyers are no longer locked out based on how much they earn. This has made the scheme accessible to a broader range of first home buyers, particularly those earning solid incomes but still struggling to save a large deposit.

On top of that, property price caps were lifted across capital cities and regional areas to better reflect real market prices. This means buyers can now use the scheme for a wider range of homes, including properties in higher priced suburbs that were previously out of reach.

Regional buyers also benefited from simpler rules, with regional support folded into the main scheme so all buyers are assessed under the same framework.

Since May 2022, the scheme has helped more than 200,000 people into home ownership, showing just how important low deposit options have become.

First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS)

For buyers still saving, the First Home Super Saver Scheme can be a powerful tool.

This scheme allows first home buyers to make voluntary contributions into their super and later withdraw those funds to use as part of a home deposit. Because super is taxed at a lower rate, this can help buyers save faster compared to using a standard savings account.

There are limits on how much can be contributed and withdrawn, so it is important to plan ahead and understand the rules before relying on the scheme.

Help to Buy Scheme

Another option is this shared-equity program where the government contributes up to 30 per cent of the purchase price for existing homes or 40% for new homes, letting you buy with as little as a 2%t deposit and a smaller mortgage, while you own and live in the home and the government holds a proportional equity share that you can buy back over time or repay when you sell.

State and territory first home owner grants

Most states and territories continue to offer first home owner grants, particularly for buyers purchasing new or substantially renovated homes.

Grant amounts and eligibility rules vary depending on where you buy, but they can provide a valuable boost to a deposit or help cover upfront costs such as legal fees and inspections.

Stamp duty concessions and exemptions

Stamp duty is often one of the biggest upfront costs when buying a home. To ease this burden, many states and territories offer stamp duty concessions or full exemptions for eligible first home buyers.

In some cases, buyers pay reduced stamp duty, while others may pay none at all if the property falls under certain price thresholds. These concessions can save buyers a significant amount of money.

Shared equity and state-based programs

Some states also offer shared equity schemes, where the government contributes a portion of the purchase price in exchange for an ownership stake in the property. This can reduce the size of the loan needed and make repayments more manageable.

Availability and conditions vary by state, and there are usually limits on income and property value.

Boosting supply through the First Home Supply Program

Affordability is not just about saving a deposit. It is also about having enough homes available to buy.

That is where the First Home Supply Program comes in. Through this program, the Government is working with states, territories and industry to unlock more housing supply and make it easier for first home buyers to own a home of their own.

The focus is on increasing the number of new, well located and affordable homes that suit first home buyers. By building more homes and easing supply pressure, the program aims to improve choice and reduce competition at the entry level of the market. Construction on the first homes will start in 2026–27, with first home buyers to begin moving in from 2027−28.

With property prices still high in many parts of Australia, government support can make a real difference, however with so many schemes on offer, it can quickly become confusing to work out what you qualify for and which options will actually benefit you the most.

We can help you cut through the noise, understand your options and put together a clear plan to buy with confidence. If you are thinking about buying your first home in 2026, talk to us.

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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Nicholas Berry Credit Representative Number 472439 is a Credit Representative of Integrity Finance (Aust) Pty Ltd – Australian Credit Licence 392184.

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd (ABN 35 994 727 125) as a Corporate Authorised Representative (1316489) of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd (AFSL 225051). Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

If buying a home is on your to-do list for 2026, now is the perfect time to start preparing. A successful property purchase begins well before you start attending open homes or talking to real estate or buyers’ agents. By organising your finances early, you can move quickly and confidently when the right property comes along.

Start with your budget

A clear, realistic budget is the foundation of any successful home purchase. Understanding your income and expenses helps you see what you can comfortably afford and how much you can save for your deposit.

Track your spending for a couple of months to identify where your money goes. Look for ways you can save, such as getting rid of unused subscriptions or dining out less often. These small savings opportunities can add up over time. Consistent saving not only builds your deposit but also shows lenders that you manage money responsibly.

Review and reduce debt

Once your budget is in place, take a close look at any existing debts such as credit cards, personal loans, or car finance. Lenders consider your current financial commitments when deciding how much you can borrow, so managing debt effectively can make a real difference to your borrowing capacity.

Paying down high-interest debts, consolidating where appropriate, and avoiding new credit in the months before applying for a home loan can strengthen your financial position. Even small reductions in your monthly repayments can boost your overall borrowing power.

Check and protect your credit score

Your credit score plays an important role in determining both your loan eligibility and the interest rates available to you. Request a free copy of your credit report from a reputable provider and review it carefully for any errors or outdated information.

Make sure all bills and existing loans are paid on time and try to limit new credit applications. A strong, consistent repayment history tells lenders you are a reliable borrower and puts you in a better position when applying for a mortgage.

Research the market

Once your finances are under control, start researching the property market. Understanding your preferred suburbs and property types will help you set realistic expectations and make confident decisions later.

Look at recent sales, price trends, and the types of properties available in your budget range. Visit open homes, talk to local agents, and learn about transport links, schools, and amenities. The more familiar you are, the better prepared you will be when it is time to make an offer.

Understand the true costs of buying

Buying a home involves more than just saving a deposit. Additional costs such as stamp duty, legal fees, inspections, loan establishment fees, and moving expenses all need to be factored in. Knowing these costs upfront will help you plan more accurately and avoid any unexpected financial surprises.

Your mortgage broker can help you estimate the full cost of buying, including upfront and ongoing expenses, so you can make confident, informed decisions.

Explore government support

If you are a first home buyer or meet certain eligibility criteria, you may be able to access government grants, stamp duty concessions, or guarantee schemes that reduce the amount you need to save for a deposit.

Each state and territory offers different programs, so it is worth checking what is available in your area. Your broker can help you identify which grants you may be eligible for and assist you with the application process. These incentives can make a big difference in helping you enter the market sooner.

Understand how much you can borrow

Once you have a handle on your finances and a clear idea of your target areas, it is time to find out how much you can borrow. Your mortgage broker can calculate your borrowing capacity based on your income, expenses, and savings, and help you compare lenders and loan options.

It is also wise to consider getting pre-approval before you start house hunting. Pre-approval gives you a clear idea of your budget and shows sellers that you are serious. It also allows you to move quickly and confidently when you find the right property.

Preparing to buy a home takes time and organisation, but it is one of the best investments you can make in your financial future. We can help you put everything in place for home-buying success in 2026.

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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Nicholas Berry Credit Representative Number 472439 is a Credit Representative of Integrity Finance (Aust) Pty Ltd – Australian Credit Licence 392184.

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd (ABN 35 994 727 125) as a Corporate Authorised Representative (1316489) of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd (AFSL 225051). Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

By Author Julia Cook.

Achieving the so-called “Australian dream” of home ownership is increasingly difficult for members of younger generations. Census data shows that rates of home ownership have fallen from 64% in 1971 to 50% in 2021 among 30–34-year-olds, and from 50% to 36% for 25–29-year-olds.

The reasons for this have been well canvassed. This article focuses on some of the more unorthodox arrangements I have come across in my years spent researching young adults’ pathways into home ownership.

Buying a property as a ‘tenant in common’

Due to the high cost of housing relative to incomes, those in dual-income households are comparatively more likely to enter home ownership.

Most of my research participants over the years have purchased with a spouse or significant other as joint tenants. This means they hold an equal share of the equity in the property, and the property will immediately pass to the other if one person dies.

However, a minority of participants have purchased with someone other than a spouse, and have done so as “tenants in common”. This means they can own distinct and potentially unequal shares of the property, and there is no right of survivorship.

Data on the prevalence of these arrangements is limited. However, a recent industry survey found that 5.7% of their respondents had purchased property with a sibling, 4% had purchased with a friend, and another 2.1% had purchased with an extended family member.

When I first spoke to Sophia, aged 32, she explained she had purchased an investment property with her twin sister at the age of 25. At that time, both sisters were single, and Sophia said: “We trust each other, so we would only buy with each other, you know.”

When I spoke to Sophia initially in 2022 she was happy with this arrangement. However, by 2024, her circumstances had changed. Both Sophia and her sister were in relationships, and Sophia had just begun maternity leave.

Sophia’s sister and her partner wanted to move into their shared property and pay rent to Sophia for the portion she owned. Sophia was concerned about this arrangement because she did not feel comfortable enforcing periodic rent increases on her sister. She planned to rely on the rental income to extend her maternity leave.

While buying with a sibling or friend may provide a means of getting your foot on the property ladder, it can be nevertheless accompanied by some well-documented challenges.

Another way in: rentvesting

The strategy of buying an investment property while living in a rental property (termed “rentvesting”) has come up frequently in my research.

Indeed, analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics data in 2024 found that rentvestors accounted for 6.85% of the first home buyer market.

When I spoke to Madeline, aged 33 and living in Sydney, she could not afford to buy an apartment in her local area. After consulting with her mortgage broker, she decided to instead buy a property in Western Australia as an investment.

While Madeline was very positive about this arrangement, it is important to note she was living in a property owned by her partner, to whom she paid rent. In this way, she was buffered from some of the challenges faced by those living in the private rental sector, such as frequent rent rises or one-year leases.

Alternative ways to save a deposit

Living rent-free in the family home is a well-established means of accelerating the rate of saving for a deposit. However, this option is not available to everyone.

Petsitting or housesitting can help people live rent-free while they save for a deposit.

Genevieve, aged 29, had migrated from France and did not have the option of living with family while saving for a deposit. So she decided to start house sitting. She organised her house-sitting engagements through an app and, over time, developed a network of home owners who trusted her to care for their pets and houses while they travelled.

After just over two years of house sitting, Genevieve was able to purchase an apartment. However, she described negotiating her house-sitting arrangements as “basically a part-time job”, and reflected on the fact she had no fixed address during this time and was “basically homeless”, highlighting the underlying precarity of her living situation.

Throughout my time researching young adults’ pathways into home ownership I have come across a range of unusual or unorthodox arrangements. Some other examples include living in tiny homes or alternative dwellings such as shipping containers, or asking parents to “invest” in their homes (although these arrangements are rarely formalised, leaving open the question of when any gains might be realised).

These home ownership strategies all share two things in common: their viability is highly contingent on individual circumstances, and those who engage in them successfully have a relatively high degree of privilege and social support.

While these strategies are successful for some, they are not necessarily possible or appropriate for most aspiring first home owners. This highlights the need to resist promoting individual solutions to a challenge that is structural in nature, and to continue to advocate for a fairer and more accessible housing system.

Editor’s note: All names used in this article are pseudonyms to protect research participant privacy.

Source: https://theconversation.com/buying-with-a-sibling-or-rentvesting-some-unorthodox-approaches-to-buying-a-first-home-265571

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

Suite 2, 1 Railway Crescent
Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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Nicholas Berry Credit Representative Number 472439 is a Credit Representative of Integrity Finance (Aust) Pty Ltd – Australian Credit Licence 392184.

This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd (ABN 35 994 727 125) as a Corporate Authorised Representative (1316489) of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd (AFSL 225051). Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.