Buying property in Australia
From your first deposit to settlement day - clear, up-to-date guides on grants, home loans, the buying process and where to buy. Backed by live market data and verified local agents.
Start here
Pick the guide that fits where you're at
Whether you're saving your first deposit or comparing your fifth purchase, start with one of these four guides. Each one links to step-by-step articles and the tools you'll need.
First home buyer guide
Grants, stamp duty concessions and deposit schemes - and how to combine them in your state.
How to buy property
The full process, from making an offer to settlement - including how to buy confidently at auction.
Home loans & finance
Work out what you can borrow, compare loan types and understand the costs before you apply.
Suburb & market research
Check median prices, growth trends and what makes a suburb worth buying in.
For first home buyers
You may be eligible for more help than you think
In 2026, first home buyers across Australia can access grants, stamp duty savings and low-deposit schemes - and many can be combined.
Free tools
Run the numbers before you fall in love with a place
Two quick calculators to ground your search in what you can actually afford.
The journey
Buying a home, in six steps
Every purchase is a little different, but most follow this path. Click any step to read the full guide.
Sort your finances
Save your deposit, check your borrowing power and line up pre-approval.
Choose where to buy
Research suburbs, median prices and growth to shortlist areas that fit.
Inspect & shortlist
Attend inspections, order building and pest checks, compare options.
Make your move
Bid at auction or make an offer - and negotiate the price and terms.
Exchange contracts
Pay the deposit, engage a conveyancer and understand cooling-off rules.
Settle & move in
Finalise your loan, complete settlement and collect the keys.
Most read
Popular buying guides
Quick answers
Buying FAQs
How much deposit do I need?+
Most lenders prefer 20% to avoid LMI, but eligible first home buyers can buy with as little as 5% under the Home Guarantee Scheme.
Can I combine grants and concessions?+
Often, yes. Many buyers stack a First Home Owner Grant with a stamp duty concession and a federal deposit scheme - eligibility depends on your state and the property price.
How long does buying take?+
From pre-approval to settlement usually takes two to four months, though settlement periods vary by state and contract.
Ready to start looking?
Search verified listings across all eight states and territories, or connect with a trusted local agent who knows your market.