Checklist
First Home Buyer Checklist
Step-by-step guide to buying your first property in NSW
Before You Start
Check your credit score and fix any issues
Calculate how much deposit you can save
Research First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) eligibility
Understand stamp duty concessions in NSW
Consider the First Home Super Saver Scheme
Getting Finance Ready
Get pre-approval from a lender or mortgage broker
Understand your borrowing capacity
Compare fixed vs variable interest rates
Factor in LMI if deposit is under 20%
Budget for all purchase costs (not just deposit)
House Hunting
Create a list of must-haves vs nice-to-haves
Research suburbs within your budget
Attend open homes and take notes
Check school catchments if relevant
Research recent sales in the area
Making an Offer
Engage a conveyancer or solicitor
Arrange building and pest inspections
Review the contract of sale carefully
Understand cooling-off periods
Ensure finance approval before going unconditional
Settlement
Complete final inspection before settlement
Arrange home and contents insurance
Set up utilities and redirect mail
Collect keys and move in!
Register for council rates and water
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