We denounce with righteous indignation and dislike men who we are to beguiled demoralized by the charms of pleasures that moment, so we blinded desires, that they indignations.
Make the move from renting to owning with guidance and support
I have helped many people step into their first home, and it’s one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Buying your first home can feel a little overwhelming, sometimes even impossible, but with me in your corner, I’ll guide you through government schemes, financial approvals, and help you make the right decision for your first property.
Renting can give you flexibility to move and live where you want to, but owning your own home means that instead of your money disappearing into rent each week, your repayments start building equity, something tangible that supports your future financial goals.
Owning your home also gives you the stability of putting down roots, creating a place you can truly call home. If you want to renovate the kitchen, paint the walls, or plant a veggie garden down the track, you’ll be happier to do this in your own home.
There are several government initiatives designed to help first home buyers make the transition from renting to buying. One of the most popular is the First Home Guarantee, which allows eligible buyers to purchase with as little as a 5% deposit, without paying lenders mortgage insurance (LMI).
Depending on where you’re buying, you may also be eligible for the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) or Stamp Duty concessions. These benefits will help you get your foot in the property market sooner.
It’s important to make sure the loan you choose allows you to pay off your home loan with ease, and have enough money left over each month to live and do the things you enjoy.
Owning your own first home may not be as hard as you think
Here’s an example of how monthly cashflow might look when renting versus mortgage payments:
A typical scenario:
Purchase price: $600,000
Deposit: $60,000 (this scenario is based on a 10%, however you may only need 5% deposit depending on your situation)
Loan amount: $540,000
Interest rate: 6% p.a. (variable)
Loan term: 30 years
Estimated rent for equivalent property: $550 – $600 per week
Mortgage repayment calculated on P&I:
Scenario
Weekly Cost
Monthly Cost
Notes
Renting (lower range)
$550
$2,383
Paying someone else’s mortgage. No equity or tax benefits. Rent rises over time.
Renting (upper range)
$600
$2,600
Typical rent for a basic 2-3 bedroom home in many Melbourne suburbs.
Mortgage – P&I
N/A
$3,237
Based on a $540,000 loan at 6%. Repayments stay predictable over 30 years.
Net Difference (compared to renting)
N/A
~$700-900 more per month
You pay more up front, but every repayment builds equity instead of going to a landlord.
After 5 years, you’ll haver equity and with this comes more choice. With renting, 5 years later you have nothing out of the home as you’ve been paying rental payments toward someone else’s mortgage.
Let’s have a look at how two different scenarios of clients I helped buy their first home.
Case Study: Jenny and Oliver – Buying Their First Home
Jenny and Oliver were ready to lay down roots, create a family home with their dream garden, and they wanted to make the most of the First Home Guarantee, but the process felt confusing. They had a 5% deposit and found a home under $600,000 in order to qualify, and they were able to avoid both LMI – Lenders Mortgage Insurance – and stamp duty. LMI is an additional fee you need to pay when your mortgage exceeds 80% of the property value, in this case it would have been approximately $15,000-$20,000, and stamp duty of approximately $30,000. With the First Home Buyer Scheme, Jenny and Oliver were able to avoid these fees making it possible to enter the property market.
Together we went through how the scheme works, I guided them through the paperwork so that it was correct, because you want to make sure the first application is spot on, and we secured their place on the program. They were thrilled with the keys to their very own first home now within their grasp. Seeing their excitement is why I love what I do – being part of my clients’ circle of trust and helping them achieve their goals.
Case Study: Suzie and Shelby – Keeping Their Family Home
Suzie and Shelby loved their grandma’s house and wanted to keep it in the family. They’d saved a 10% deposit and enough for stamp duty, but the extra $18,000 in Lenders Mortgage Insurance felt like a deal-breaker.
With some guidance, the right paperwork, and support from Suzie’s mum, we used a family security guarantee to remove the LMI completely.
Twelve months later, the property had already increased in value. I arranged a revaluation, and we were able to release the family guarantee, letting Suzie and Shelby and their home stand proudly on their own two feet.
Why work with a broker instead of going directly to a bank?
As you can see above, you don’t have to take this journey alone. Banks will only show you their own loans, but I compare 50+ lenders to find the right fit for you. With over 18 years’ experience, I know which loan structures work best for first home buyers, and which features will actually benefit you long-term.
I’ll also handle the paperwork, negotiations, and approvals, making the process as smooth as possible. There are no fees for my service as I’m paid by the lender, so you can lean on our expertise without extra cost.
Taking the step into your first home can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right guidance, a clear plan, and someone in your corner, you can make the move from renting to owning with confidence.
At Keystone Mortgage Brokers, I’m here to be part of your circle of trust. I’ll take the time to understand your goals, support you through every stage of the process, and celebrate with you when you pick up the keys to your first home.
Book a no-obligation chat with me today and let’s explore your options.