To help first home buyers fulfil the dream of one day owning their own homes, Australia introduced the First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) to ease the costs associated with buying real estate.
Each state has its own criteria, rules, guidelines and amounts, with some states focusing their funding on certain types of property and its worth your time understanding what your entitled to.
The First Home Owners Grant can be a massive kick start – but how do you use it?Overview of the First Home Owners Grant
To help first home buyers fulfil the dream of one day owning their own homes, Australia introduced the First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) to ease the costs associated with buying real estate.
Each state has its own criteria, rules, guidelines and amounts, with some states focusing their funding on certain types of property.
Some states also have a stamp duty concession on top of the FHOG, saving first home buyers more money.
Why Use the Grant?
The costs associated with purchasing your first home can add up to a significant amount.
The grant is free funding – not a short-term loan that you have to pay back to the government.
Some states offer grants of up to $15,000, which will be a considerable help when saving for your home deposit. Home buyers ASAP
Funding is usually paid to you once your property has reached settlement, so it’s a good idea to consider how you will use it before you lodge your application.
Recently, a number of state governments have shifted their focus for the grant to the purchase or construction of brand new homes. This may influence your purchasing decision, so do your research early.
Am I Eligible?
The grant differs from state to state, but basic eligibility criteria remain the same across the country and apply to both you and your spouse or partner entering the property agreement.
How do I use the Grant?
There is usually a capped amount for properties you can apply for. Naturally this can fluctuate substantially across the country, depending on each state’s housing market.
Applications can be made through most financial lenders, however they must be a First Home Owners Grant Approved Agent.