Your essential WA first homebuyer checklist
We’ve teamed up Realestate.com.au to create your ultimate first homebuyer checklist. So, settle in & let’s get your first home journey started!
It’s an exciting time to be entering the property market.
In Western Australia, areas like Mundijong in Perth’s south-east are proving popular with first homebuyers searching for affordability and rural-residential lifestyle appeal.
In the city’s north, Mariginiup and Bullsbrook are offering solid growth opportunities.
With the Australian Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme* (an expansion of the former Home Guarantee Scheme) coming into effect last month, buying a first home has become more accessible.
Data shows a 39.2% surge in applications for the scheme since it was expanded on 1 October, highlighting just how many first-time buyers are making their move.
8 questions to ask before taking the plunge
What can I actually afford?
Our sales manager Scotty says a finance broker can help assess your financial situation and works with you to set a realistic budget, and get you finance-ready before you start property hunting.
With the help of our finance partners at Resolve Finance, a broker will be able to help determine if you’re eligible for stamp duty exemptions or government initiatives.
“First homebuyers choosing to build their first home will need to consider their land deposit and their build deposit,”
“Both may vary depending on developer and builder.”
Should I buy established or build from scratch?
The decision is personal and comes down to your individual situation and needs.
“The benefits of building your own home mean you’re getting a brand-new home, with new warranties (and) a design you truly love,” he says.
“However, you will have to wait to receive your keys.”
If getting into a home quickly is a priority, buying established could be the way to go — noting it may still involve months of auctions and bidding.
Where are first home buyers getting real value right now?
About 45 minutes from Perth’s CBD, Mundijong is popular among first homebuyers.
The median house price is $756,000 and the suburb has seen an annual compound growth rate of 12.2% according to realeastate.com.au data.
Mariginiup and Bullsbrook are also hotspots, both within 40 minutes of the CBD.
Median house prices are $1,457,500 and $759,000 respectively according to realeastate.com.au data, with Mariginiup recording 16.6% growth and Bullsbrook an impressive 21.4%**.
What kind of home suits my lifestyle and budget?
It’s all about understanding what are must haves & nice to haves!
“Really understanding needs and wants will help set expectations about your new home and ensure you’re not missing out on the things you need to make your house a home”
With a wide range of home designs, our team of New Homes Consultants are here to help bring your new home to life.
What support or grants can I access in WA?
There are several initiatives to help first homebuyers enter the market.
The Australian Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme supports low-deposit buyers, single parents or legal guardians could buy with a deposit from as little as 2%.*
The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) offers a one-off payment of up to $10,000* for eligible applicants buying or building their first new home.
Always chat to a broker to see what is the best financial solution for you!
Who do I need on my team?
Buying your first home can be daunting, so you’ll want a professional team supporting you.
Together with their partners at Resolve Finance and Parcel Property, Homebuyers Centre WA guides clients from finance, land selection and home design through to after care once you’re in your own home.
What’s the one thing most first homebuyers forget to ask?
Scotty say’s it’s always important to ask. “What don’t I get”.
The market is filled with noise around inclusions and promotions, transparency is understanding clearly what is included as well as what is not included, so there are no surprises.
Ready to chat to the team? Our expert New Homes Consultants are here to help guide you on your journey towards home ownership
*Eligibility at the discretion of State and/or Federal Government. Please refer to Government websites for further information: https:/firsthomebuyers.gov.au/australian-government-5-percent-deposit-scheme, www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-finance/fhog
Lender terms and conditions apply. Resolve Financial Solutions Pty Ltd trading as Resolve Finance ABN 65 079 545 378, Australian Credit Licence No. 385487.
**Source: Realestate.com.au 2025