What deposit do I need to buy my first home?

Buying your first home is a significant milestone, but it often comes with many questions and considerations, one of the most crucial being: How much do I need for a deposit? Understanding deposit requirements is essential for anyone looking to step into homeownership…

The basics of a home deposit:

A home deposit is a lump sum of money that you contribute towards the purchase price of a property. It serves as your initial equity in the home and is paid upfront when you exchange contracts to secure the property.

Traditionally, lenders require a deposit of at least 20% of the property’s purchase price. However, there are options available for those who may not have this amount saved. Many lenders accept deposits as low as 5%, but this often comes with additional costs such as Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Calculating your deposit:

To determine the deposit amount you need, consider the following

1. Research Property Prices: Research the property market in the area you’re interested in to understand the typical purchase prices for homes similar to what you’re looking for.
2. Calculate 20% of the Property Price: Multiply the property price by 0.20 to find out how much a 20% deposit would be.
3. Consider Additional Costs: Remember to factor in additional costs such as stamp duty, legal fees, and any potential renovations or repairs.
4. Evaluate Your Savings: Assess your current savings and determine how much you can contribute towards the deposit.

Options for low deposit buyers:

If you don’t have a 20% deposit saved, don’t despair. There are several options available…

1. First Home Buyer Grants: Check if you’re eligible for any first home buyer grants or incentives offered by the government. These grants can provide financial assistance towards your deposit.
2. Family Guarantees: Some lenders offer family guarantee loans, where a family member uses their property as security for your loan. This can allow you to borrow with a smaller deposit.
3. Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI): If you have a deposit of less than 20%, you may be required to pay LMI. This insurance protects the lender if you default on your loan and allows you to borrow with a smaller deposit.

Tips for saving for a deposit:

Saving for a deposit can be challenging, but with discipline and strategic planning, it’s achievable

1. Set a Savings Goal: Determine how much you need to save and set a realistic savings goal.
2. Create a Budget: Track your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back to save more.
3. Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers to a dedicated savings account to ensure consistent contributions.
4. Explore Government Schemes: Research government schemes and incentives designed to help first home buyers save for a deposit.

The deposit required to buy your first home depends on various factors, including the property price, your savings, and available financial assistance. While a 20% deposit is ideal to avoid additional costs, there are options available for those with smaller deposits.

Consider seeking advice from one of our financial advisors or mortgage brokers today, to help you make informed decisions on your homeownership journey. By understanding your options and taking proactive steps to save, you can turn your dream of homeownership into a reality.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and is presented for informative purposes. It is not intended to constitute tax or financial advice, whether general or personal nor is it intended to imply any recommendation or opinion about a financial product. It does not take into consideration your personal situation and may not be relevant to circumstances. Before taking any action, consider your own particular circumstances and seek professional advice. This content is protected by copyright laws and various other intellectual property laws. It is not to be modified, reproduced, or republished without prior written consent. Content developed in partnership with IFPA.