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.

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd

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.

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd

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.

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd

While it’s tempting to get swept up in the excitement of real estate listings and open homes with freshly baked cookies, it’s important to remember one key principle: caveat emptor- let the buyer beware. In other words, it’s up to you to make sure you’re not buying someone else’s expensive problem disguised with a fresh coat of paint.

Let’s talk about what that means and how to do your homework before you pick up the keys to your future.

Check for unwelcome houseguests or hazards

Just because a house looks clean and tidy doesn’t mean there isn’t a party of pests going on behind the walls. Termites, in particular, are silent destroyers that can chew through timber framing like it’s an all-you-can-eat buffet.

A professional pest inspection can determine if there’s any current activity, previous infestations, or evidence of rodents and other creepy-crawlies you’d prefer not to share your home with. It’s much easier to walk away from a dodgy property than it is to evict a thousand termites.

Of course, it’s also a good idea to check for any potential health hazards like mould, asbestos, or lead paint, which are common in older homes, and even consider checking for soil contamination.

Make sure there’s no insurance surprises

Some properties come with a lovely location and serious risk. If you’re eyeing a home near a river, in the bush, or on a coastal cliff, don’t forget to check what kind of insurance situation you’re getting yourself into.

Insurers might charge a premium or flat-out refuse to cover you if the property is in a flood-prone or bushfire-vulnerable area. Before making an offer, check local hazard maps and call for quotes. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.

Check the property’s history

Not all home improvements or renovations are done by the book. Before you get too attached, ask for the paperwork. Has the work been approved by council? Are there permits and final inspection certificates for any recent renovations? If not, you could be looking at future battles with the council, expensive fixes, or worse, being forced to demolish an unapproved structure you just paid good money for.

Don’t judge a home by its new carpet

Fresh paint, new carpet, and strategically placed furniture can hide a multitude of sins. Sometimes sellers use cosmetic upgrades to cover up deeper problems like mould, damp, or structural damage.

If the house smells like fresh paint or looks a little too perfect in specific areas, your inner detective should be on alert. It’s not rude to poke around. Lift a rug, peek inside the cupboards, turn on taps and check out the roof space and under the house, if you can. Things that can be red flags include misaligned doors, cracks in walls or new plasterwork, windows that are hard to open or have cracked glass. These issues can all point to structural issues that can be expensive to fix.

Get a professional involved

Consider engaging a professional building inspector to identify any undisclosed or non-compliant works and look for signs of water damage, dodgy wiring, structural issues, and other costly defects that aren’t visible to the untrained eye.

Think of it as hiring a bodyguard for your future bank account.

Don’t neglect the fine print

Even if the seller seems genuine and the home looks like something out of a magazine, don’t skip the fine print. Request documentation and take the time to have the contract of sale reviewed by a solicitor or conveyancer. Make sure any inclusions like appliances, curtains, or fixtures are clearly listed. Check if there are any easements, restrictions, or future developments nearby that could affect your property. You don’t want to move into your peaceful dream home only to find out there’s a freeway going in or an apartment complex being built next door.

You should compare the measurements shown on the title document with actual fences and buildings on the property, to make sure the boundary matches what’s on paper.

A property might come with charm, character, and a great location, but you need to make sure it also comes with solid bones, legal compliance, and no nasty surprises lurking under the surface.

So, take your time and remember, you’re not just buying a house. You’re investing in your future comfort, safety, and happiness.

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

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd

The growth of Australian home values is not slowing down with national gains continuing. Cotality’s national Home Value Index rose 3.1% over the quarter to December, growing 1.0% in November, marking the third month in a row where Australian home values have increased by 1% or more. However, the pace of growth is moderating, coming down from 1.1% in October.

Before the February rate cut, housing conditions were losing momentum, even recording flat to falling values through late 2024 and January 2025,” said Tim Lawless, Cotality’s research director. “The first rate cut in February marked a clear turning point, with home values moving through a positive inflection across most regions and gathering steam since then.”

Markets are starting to diverge

The larger capital cities had gains, with Sydney property values rising 0.5% and Melbourne, the second largest capital city, increasing by 0.3% in November. All of the other capital cities had gains of 1% or higher throughout the month, with Perth leading the way with a 2.4% surge in value.

Cotality’s research director, Tim Lawless stated that the growth across the mid-sized capitals is diverging from the larger capital cities, which is similar to what we saw back in 2023 and 2024.

“The skew towards the mid-sized capitals is especially evident in Perth, where listings are holding more than 40% below average, buyer demand is elevated and the 2.4% monthly rise in dwelling values has added just over $21,000 to the median in November, roughly $5,000/week.”

Supply remains tight

Auction clearance rates peaked in mid-September and have been trending lower in the following months, falling below the decade average by mid-November with the larger capital cities, Sydney and Melbourne seeing clearance rates sitting around 60% in the second half of November.

Housing supply is continuing to remain scarce for a number of reasons, with affordability being the main factor, followed by skilled labour shortage, which is holding back the construction of homes.

Inflation causing concern

There is renewed pressure on the Reserve Bank of Australia, with inflation increasing again in October to 3.8%, up from 3.6% in September. This rise indicates the RBA will not make a rate cut and there has been speculation that the cash rate will be held for an extended period of time, or the RBA may even consider a rate hike in December or February 2026, which would be a concern for first home buyers and mortgagees alike.

Changes to lending criteria may impact the market

In a recent announcement from Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), there will be changes to limit the high debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of loans. Mr. Lawless noted the majority of recent mortgage originations remain significantly below a DTI of six or more. “This new credit policy won’t be implemented until February next year, but even then, it’s likely to only affect the margins of borrowing activity,” Mr Lawless said.

Dwelling values over the quarter 

Melbourne

The Victorian capital saw a modest 1.6% quarterly move according to Cotality figures, taking the city’s median dwelling price to $823,495. Investors should take note that the gross rental yield figure for Melbourne is 3.6%.

Sydney

Sydney experienced a dwelling value change of 1.8% resulting in a median of $1.269 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 $1.015 million and a quarterly rise of 5.5%. Brisbane has recorded a gross rental yield of 3.4%.

Canberra

The national capital recorded a rise of 2.2% during the quarter with the median now sitting at $891,626. For Canberra, the gross rental yield is 4.0%.

 Perth

Perth prices increased 7.4% over the quarter, taking its medium to $914,229. Perth recorded 3.9% 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.

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd

If you’re a first home buyer in today’s market, you’ve likely been reading about interest rate cuts – finally, some good news! But then, just as you’re getting hopeful, you check house prices again and… yikes. Affordability is still delivering a cold splash of reality as property prices are predicted to increase over the next year.

If you’re feeling like someone forgot to give you the key, it might be time to look at which path you could tread to your first purchase.

Leverage government support (it’s there for a reason!)

There are a number of schemes and incentives aimed at helping first home buyers – both federally and through the states and territories. Here is a quick overview:

• First Home Guarantee – Allows eligible buyers to purchase with as little as 5% deposit, without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
• First Home Super Saver Scheme – Use your super to save for a deposit with tax advantages.
• Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee – For eligible buyers purchasing in regional areas and only 5% deposit is required.
• Family Home Guarantee – Allows eligible single parents and single legal guardians of at least one dependent to purchase a home with a deposit as little as 2 per cent.
• A grant or support from your state or territory government – Many states and territories offer grants as one-off payments for eligible buyers purchasing or building a new home as well as reduced or zero stamp duty for first home buyers, often based on the value of the property.

Each state offers its own unique cocktail of grants and concessions, so it’s worth checking out what’s available and we can help you weigh up which one might be the most suitable for your circumstances.

The Bank of Mum and Dad

Still the fastest-growing lender in Australia, parental support is more common than ever. More than 60% of first home buyers in Australia receive some form of financial assistance from their parents to buy their first home.

Assistance can be in the form of a gift, a loan or going guarantor. If your folks are open to helping financially, it can make a huge difference.

That said, not everyone has this option, and it’s worth remembering that family money can sometimes come with strings attached.

Consider co-buying with a friend

If you are single, it can be particularly hard to get into the market and buying with a friend can make owning a home more affordable by splitting the deposit and the repayments down the middle. Plus, sharing ongoing costs like maintenance and bills can take some pressure off your budget.

That said, things can get tricky if one of you wants to sell early, or if your priorities suddenly diverge. Legal and financial clarity is essential, so if you go down this path, make sure you’ve got a solid agreement in place and some honest conversations under your belt.

Rentvesting – buy where you can afford, live where you love

Recent research found 54% of first home buyers were considering ‘rentvesting’ to get into the property market, so rentvesting is certainly gaining traction. The idea is simple: you buy in a more affordable area and rent where you want to live.

It’s not the traditional white-picket-fence dream, but it can be a clever way to build equity while maintaining lifestyle flexibility.

Compromise to achieve your dream

We know you’d love a three-bedder, walking distance to your favourite café, with a study, backyard, AND water views. But unless you’re sitting on a trust fund, you’ll probably need to adjust your wish list. The three big levers are:

• Location – Look at up-and-coming suburbs or regional areas.
• Condition – A fixer-upper can be a long-term win if you’re handy (or handy with a budget).
• Size – A smaller footprint or apartment can be a smart first step.

Think about your priorities and use the levers above to work within your budget. If you’re still feeling like the great Australian dream is out of reach, take a breath. There are many ways to get into the market, and a little creative thinking can go a long way.

We help first home buyers like you find your own way in, every day. So, if you’re ready to chat about what your journey could look like, come talk to us.

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

Integrity One Wealth Advisers  Pty Ltd