Buying Your First Home in Victoria
A Step-by-Step Guide




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Congratulations on taking the exciting first step towards home ownership! This guide will walk you through the process of buying your first home in Victoria, ensuring a smooth and successful journey.
Step 1: 
Know Your Numbers
Get Pre-Approved:
Consult a financial advisor to determine your borrowing power and get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a clear picture of your budget.
Factor in All Costs:
Don't forget about stamp duty, conveyancing fees, and inspection costs when calculating affordability.
​Explore Grants and Concessions:
Victoria offers First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) and other concessions to help first-time buyers. Check the State Revenue Office website for details.
Step 2:
Saving for Your Deposit

Set a goal and save for your deposit. While most lenders require a deposit of at least 5% of the property's value, bigger is definitely better.

A larger deposit may help you to avoid costly Lenders Mortgage Insurance, which is charged when a home buyer borrows more than 80% of the property's value. Putting a savings strategy in place early on in your financial lifecycle will make it easier to obtain finance and purchase your dream home down the track.


Saving Strategies

Step 3: 
Property SearcH
Research Your Area:
Identify suburbs that suit your needs and budget. Utilize online tools to find median property prices and recent sales. Most importantly discover what each suburb offers for lifestyle. Our suburb profiles below are a great place to start!
Weekly Inspections:
Stay updated on the market by attending inspections regularly. This will familiarize you with available properties and market trends.
Suburb Profiles

Step 4: 
Assemble Your Team

Conveyancer/Solicitor: Choose a legal professional to handle the property transfer process.

Building and Pest Inspectors: Arrange inspections to identify any structural issues or pest problems before making an offer.


Step 5: 
Shortlist and Inspect

Prioritize Properties: Shortlist properties that meet your criteria and schedule inspections. Consider revisiting properties with a trusted friend or family member.

Essential Inspections: Once you're serious about an offer, get a building and pest inspection completed for peace of mind.
Current properties
STEP 6:
Prepare to Make an Offer
Step 7:
Purchase Your Home
Step 7:
Purchase Your Home
​Exchange and Deposit:

Arrange payment of the deposit upon exchange of contracts.
Negotiate Settlement: 

Discuss a settlement period that works for you and the seller.

Final Inspection and Settlement: 

Complete a final inspection and gather necessary documentation for settlement. Pay stamp duty and finalize the transfer of title deeds.

​Step 8: 
Welcome Home!

Moving Logistics: 
Arrange for connection of utilities like electricity, water, and internet.

Security and Maintenance: 
Consider changing locks and schedule any necessary pre-move-in maintenance work.
We hope this guide empowers you on your homeownership journey. With careful planning and informed decisions, you'll be well on your way to owning your dream home in Victoria.

Browse our listings to find your perfect property, or contact us today to connect with a real estate expert!

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