First home buyer loans in Sydney Buying your first home, explained step by step
We help first home buyers work out what they can borrow, which government schemes apply and which lender fits. Then we handle the paperwork through to settlement.
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Who this suits
- You're buying your first home and want a realistic budget before you start inspecting
- You have a smaller deposit and want to know whether a government scheme can help
- You're self-employed, on a visa or have income that isn't straightforward
- You want someone to explain each step, not just send forms
How it works
- A 20-minute callWe talk through your income, savings, debts and the kind of place you're after.
- Your budget and the schemesWe work out a realistic borrowing range and check the NSW and federal schemes you may qualify for.
- Pre-approvalWe compare lenders, prepare your application and get a pre-approval so you can make offers with confidence.
- From offer to keysOnce you've found the place, we handle formal approval and work with your conveyancer through to settlement.
Things worth knowing
Stamp duty can be your biggest cost after the deposit
In NSW, eligible first home buyers pay no transfer duty on homes up to $800,000 and reduced duty below $1 million (Revenue NSW, as at October 2026). Our first home buyer cost calculator shows your numbers.
A small deposit doesn't always mean mortgage insurance
Australian Government home guarantee schemes can let eligible first home buyers buy with a deposit as small as 5% without lenders mortgage insurance. Price caps and conditions apply, so we check before you rely on it.
Pre-approval isn't a guarantee
The lender still has to approve the property, usually with a valuation. Some lenders have extra rules for smaller apartments, so lender choice matters if you're buying a unit.
Your spending matters as much as your income
Lenders read your bank statements. Buy now pay later accounts, unused credit card limits and regular subscriptions can all reduce what you can borrow.
Documents you'll usually need
- Photo ID (passport or driver licence)
- Your two latest payslips
- Three months of bank statements
- Statements for savings, credit cards and other loans
- Evidence of your deposit and where it came from
- Visa details, if you're not a citizen or permanent resident
We'll confirm exactly what your lender needs, so you don't gather anything twice.
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Calculators for this
Questions
How much deposit do I need for my first home?
Many lenders want 20% to avoid lenders mortgage insurance, but you can buy with less. Under a government guarantee scheme, eligible buyers may need as little as 5%. Budget separately for stamp duty (if it applies), conveyancing and inspections.
How long does pre-approval last?
Usually around 90 days, depending on the lender. If it expires we can usually renew it, but the lender will reassess your situation.
Can I use the NSW stamp duty concession and a federal scheme together?
Often, yes. They're separate schemes with their own rules, and we check both against your purchase.
Do you charge first home buyers a fee?
In most cases, no. We're paid by the lender you choose. If a fee ever applies, we tell you in writing before you go ahead.
General information only. It doesn't consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. Lending criteria, fees and charges apply.
Ready when you are.
Book a 20-minute call. We'll listen first, explain your options in plain English, and tell you what we'd do next.