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First-home buyer

First-home buyer schemes and family help

A deposit guarantee, shared-equity contribution and stamp-duty concession solve different problems. Check them separately, then build one purchase budget that includes your deposit, buying costs and a cash buffer.

Prepared by NewGen Finance Brokers · Updated

What is the NSW first home buyer stamp duty exemption?

Eligible NSW first-home buyers can receive a transfer-duty exemption on a new or existing home valued up to $800,000, with a concession above $800,000 and below $1 million. Vacant land has different thresholds. Buyer, ownership and residence requirements also apply.

Further reading: Revenue NSW: first-home assistance

Does a guarantor solve a borrowing-power shortfall?

A guarantor can help with security or deposit requirements, but does not automatically make repayments affordable. The borrower still needs to meet lender assessment requirements. Separate a deposit shortfall from an income shortfall before asking family to put their property at risk.

Further reading: Moneysmart: going guarantor

How is Help to Buy different from the 5% Deposit Scheme?

Help to Buy involves an Australian Government equity contribution and a share in future gains or losses. The 5% Deposit Scheme instead provides a lender guarantee for eligible borrowers and does not give the Government an equity share. Compare each scheme’s current eligibility, costs and obligations before choosing.

Further reading: Australian Government: Help to Buy

Can I use superannuation for a first-home deposit?

The First Home Super Saver scheme can release eligible voluntary contributions and associated earnings, subject to ATO rules. It is not unrestricted access to your super balance or compulsory employer contributions. Check eligibility and the determination/release process before committing to a purchase or making contributions for this purpose.

Further reading: ATO: First Home Super Saver scheme

Can I buy my first home on one income?

A sole applicant can discuss borrowing without a co-borrower. The useful starting point is your income, actual living costs, existing commitments, deposit and purchase budget. NewGen can help distinguish what you can comfortably repay from the maximum a lender might assess.

Further reading: About NewGen and its services

Does owning an investment property affect first-home buyer assistance?

It can. NSW first-home transfer-duty assistance considers previous residential ownership, including your spouse or partner. Federal schemes have their own ownership rules. Tell the broker about all previous interests in property and check each program separately before budgeting for an exemption or guarantee.

Further reading: Revenue NSW: first-home assistance

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