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First Home Unlocked
First Home Unlocked
Author: Jack Elliott
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© Copyright 2026 Jack Elliott
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Buying your first home is a huge milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming, confusing, and full of pressure.
First Home Unlocked is here to change that, and to help you reach your first home with clarity and confidence.
Hosted by Jack Elliott, National First Home Buyer Specialist at Alcove, and Chris Bates, one of Australia’s top-ranked mortgage brokers, this podcast simplifies the home buying journey and empowers you with the keys to unlock your first home.
Each episode is practical, clear, and designed specifically for first home buyers. From understanding the buying process to choosing a property that fits your long-term vision, Jack and Chris will guide you through every step with real conversations and expert support.
You’re not in this alone. Hit subscribe and let’s unlock your first home together.
First Home Unlocked is here to change that, and to help you reach your first home with clarity and confidence.
Hosted by Jack Elliott, National First Home Buyer Specialist at Alcove, and Chris Bates, one of Australia’s top-ranked mortgage brokers, this podcast simplifies the home buying journey and empowers you with the keys to unlock your first home.
Each episode is practical, clear, and designed specifically for first home buyers. From understanding the buying process to choosing a property that fits your long-term vision, Jack and Chris will guide you through every step with real conversations and expert support.
You’re not in this alone. Hit subscribe and let’s unlock your first home together.
33 Episodes
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Understanding how offset accounts and redraw facilities work can save you thousands in interest and years off your home loan. But most first home buyers have never been taught the difference between them or how to use them strategically.In this episode, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates break down what an offset account actually is, how redraw works differently in the background, and why the choice between them matters, especially if your first home might become an investment property down the track.We walk through real examples showing how even small amounts sitting in offset or paid as extra repayments can make a huge difference over the life of a 30-year loan. We also talk about money psychology and how to choose the right structure based on your goals and how you manage money.In this episode: 🔑 What an offset account actually is and how it reduces interest 🔑 What a redraw facility is and how it works 🔑 The key differences between offset and redraw 🔑 How to use each strategically based on your goals 🔑 Real examples showing the impact of your offset account and extra repaymentsTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Offset & Redraw Episode 02:42 - What is an Offset Account? 04:28 - Impact of an Offset Account09:10 - What is a Redaw? 12:59 - Offset vs Redraw: Key Differences and Strategy16:11 - Money Psychology around Offset and Redraw 19:29 - The Power of Extra Repayments with Examples23:23 - Episode Wrap up & Key Takeaways Unlock your Free ResourcesDownload Your Offset & Redraw Resource Mentioned Episodes: Episode 21 | Unlocking How Your Mortgage Actually WorksWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
Buying your first home is a big decision, and it often comes with a lot of external pressure. Pressure from family, friends, media headlines, and sometimes even from yourself through comparison and the fear of missing out.In this episode, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates talk through the most common pressures first home buyers face and how to navigate them without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.We explore the "just get in" mindset and why buying without thinking about asset quality can create bigger issues later. We also address the fear of missing out, the pressure around rising property prices, and the idea that "rent money is dead money."Most importantly, we share practical tools to help you step back, get clear on your goals, and make decisions that actually support your vision and future.In this episode:🔑 How to handle other people's opinions and conflicting advice🔑 Why "just getting in" can be risky without focusing on asset quality🔑 Navigating FOMO and the fear of being locked out of the market🔑 The future self test: buying for where you want to be in 5-10 years🔑 Why rent money isn't "dead money" and reframing the conversationTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction: First Home Buyer Pressures02:30 - Handling Other People's Opinions06:11 - The "Just Get In" Mindset and Why It's Risky13:52 - FOMO and The Future Self Test21:16 - The "Rent Money's Dead Money" Story25:22 - Episode Wrap UpUnlock your Free ResourcesDownload Your Goals & Visions WorkbookMentioned Episodes: Episode 25 | Unlocking Interest Rates and Why They MoveWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
In early February 2026, there was an interest rate rise announced by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Jack Elliott and Chris Bates talk through what this actually means for first home buyers and how to respond without feeling rushed or pressured.We break down the practical impact of a rate rise on both monthly repayments and borrowing capacity, and share real examples so you can understand what this looks like in your situation.Most importantly, we talk about what you can control right now. You can't control interest rates or the market, but you can control getting a clear plan in place that suits your goals, your budget, and your life.In this episode:🔑 What the interest rate rise means for first home buyers🔑 The practical impact on monthly repayments and borrowing capacity🔑 Why building buffers into your plan from the start matters🔑 What to focus on right now and how to control what you can control🔑 What Chris is seeing in the market after the rate riseTimestamps 00:00 - What First Home Buyers Should Do After a Rate Rise07:47 - How a Rate Rise Affects Your Repayments and Borrowing Power10:11 - What Chris is Seeing in the Market After the Rate RiseUnlock your Free ResourcesDownload Your Goals & Visions WorkbookMentioned Episodes: Episode 25 | Unlocking Interest Rates and Why They MoveWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
If buying your first home is part of your plan for 2026, this two-part series is designed to give you a clear, step-by-step framework to follow.In Part 2, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates move into the action phase of the buying journey. This is what happens once you’re pre-approved and ready to start looking at properties.We walk through how to assess asset quality, what to look for at inspections, the due diligence every buyer should be doing, how to structure a strong offer, and what actually happens from formal approval through to settlement. This episode is about slowing things down just enough to make good decisions and move forward with clarity and confidence.In this episode: 🔑 How to assess asset quality and choose the right property 🔑 What to look for at inspections and the due diligence that matters 🔑 How to make a confident offer and protect yourself 🔑 What happens from formal approval through to settlementTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction to How to Buy Your First Home (Part 2)03:27 - Step 6: Asset Quality14:35 - Step 7: Property Inspections and Due Diligence28:08 - Step 8: How to Make an Offer38:42 - Step 9: Formal Approval & Settlement 32:10 - Wrap Up & We Are Here to Help You in 2026Unlock your Free ResourcesHow to Buy Your First Home Step By Step Resource Download your Asset Quality ChecklistGet Your Unlocking Asset Quality ResourceGet Your Making An Offer ResourceGet Your Settlement Ready GuideMentioned Episodes: Episode 6 | Unlocking Asset Quality: How to Choose the Right Property as a First Home BuyerEpisode 7 | Unlocking Offers: How To Make a Confident Offer as a First Home BuyerEpisode 8 | Unlocking Formal Approval & Settlement for First Home BuyersWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
If buying your first home is part of your plan for 2026, this two-part series is designed to give you a clear, step-by-step framework to follow.In Part 1, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates walk through the preparation phase of buying your first home. This is the groundwork you’ll want to do before inspections or making offers, and it sets you up to move forward with confidence.We cover how to get clear on your goals, understand your upfront costs, choose the right deposit pathway, and organise your pre-approval so you’re ready to begin your property search.In this episode:🔑 Getting clear on your goals and vision before you buy🔑 When to speak to a broker and why timing matters🔑 Understanding the real upfront costs beyond the deposit🔑 Deposit options and pathways available to first home buyers🔑 What pre-approval actually means and how to prepare properlyTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction to How to Buy Your First Home (Part 1)03:27 - Step 1: Goals and Visions08:50 - Step 2: Speaking With the Right Broker13:27 - Step 3: Understanding the Real Costs of Buying Your First Home22:33 - Step 4: Understanding How Much Deposit You Need28:02 - Step 5: Get Your Pre-Approval Organised32:10 - Wrap Up and Looking to Forward to Part 2Unlock your Free ResourcesHow to Buy Your First Home Step By Step Resource Download Your Goals & Visions WorkbookDownload Your State by State Stamp Duty Guide for First Home BuyersGet Your Unlocking the Costs to Purchase Your First Home Resource Get Your Unlocking Your Deposit ResourceGet Your First Home Guarantee Scheme Resource Mentioned Episodes: Episode 1 | Unlocking Your Property Vision as a First Home BuyerEpisode 3 | Unlocking the Real Cost of Buying Your First HomeEpisode 4 | Unlocking Your Deposit: How Much Do First Home Buyers Really Need? Episode 10 | Unlocking the First Home Guarantee Scheme: Buy Your First Home With 5% Deposit Want to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
In this final episode for 2025, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates reflect on the biggest lessons and insights from working with first home buyers over the past year.We talk through what changed in the first home buyer landscape in 2025, including the expansion of the First Home Guarantee (now the 5% Deposit Scheme), and what those changes meant in real life for buyers navigating their first purchase. We also share the common questions buyers asked this year and the decisions that made the biggest difference.Most importantly, this episode is about helping you carry the right lessons into 2026.In this episode:🔑 What changed for first home buyers in 2025🔑 The biggest lessons we saw from buyers this year🔑 The most common questions first home buyers asked in 2025🔑 What we’re seeing ahead as we look toward 2026Unlock your Free Resources Street Secrets PodcastWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
The Federal Government’s new Help to Buy shared equity scheme has officially opened, and for some first home buyers it could help bridge the gap between borrowing capacity and the cost of a quality home. But shared equity also comes with rules, restrictions, and long-term trade-offs that need to be understood upfront.In this episode, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates break down how the Help to Buy scheme actually works, what it’s like living with shared equity day to day, and how buyers can eventually exit the scheme and regain full ownership. We also share our honest thoughts on when shared equity can make sense and when other pathways may be a better fit.In this episode:🔑 What shared equity is and how the Help to Buy scheme works🔑 Who the scheme is designed for and how eligibility works🔑 What it’s really like living in a shared equity arrangement🔑 How and when you can exit the scheme and buy back full ownership🔑 The key trade-offs to consider before choosing shared equityTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction to the Help to Buy Scheme01:59 - What Shared Equity Actually Means04:13 - How the Help to Buy Scheme Works and Who It’s For09:40 - What It’s Like Living with the Help to Buy Scheme 14:56 - How to Exit the Scheme and Regain Full Ownership 20:54 - Our Thoughts on Shared Equity and Help to Buy Unlock your Free Resources Unlocking Help to Buy Scheme Resource Help to Buy SchemeProperty Price Cap ToolHelp to Buy Scheme Fact SheetHelp to Buy Scheme Customer GuideWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
Interest rates are one of the first things first home buyers focus on. In this episode, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates break down what an interest rate actually is, who sets it, and why it changes over time in clear, simple terms.You’ll learn the difference between fixed, variable and split loans, how the RBA and banks each play a role in setting your rate, and why today’s rates feel so different compared to the Covid years. Most importantly, we talk about how to plan for future rate changes so your repayments stay comfortable and you feel in control of your mortgage.In this episode: 🔑 What an interest rate actually is and how it is charged 🔑 How the RBA cash rate, banks and risk all influence your rate 🔑 How to stress test your numbers and plan for future rate rises 🔑 Why your long term strategy matters more than chasing the lowest rateTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Interest Rates02:12 - What an Interest Rate Actually Is03:43 - Fixed, Variable and Split Loans Explained06:38 - Who Sets Your Rate and Why It Changes12:51 - Interest Rate Trends in The Past 16:09 - How to Plan for Future Rate Movements19:23 - Why Strategy Matters More Than the Rate22:39 - Episode Wrap-Up and Key TakeawaysUnlock your Free Resources Unlocking Interest Rates Resource Episode 21 | Unlocking Unlocking How Your Mortgage Actually WorksASX RBA Interest Rate TrackerWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
Lender’s Mortgage Insurance is sometimes a misunderstood part of buying your first home. Most people know it shows up when your deposit is under 20%, but not everyone understands what it actually is, why banks charge it, or when paying it can genuinely help you get into the market sooner.In this episode, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates break down LMI in simple, practical terms. How it works, how much it costs, and how it fits into today’s first home buyer landscape. You’ll learn the four main pathways that can help you reduce or avoid LMI, plus when paying LMI can actually be a smart move if it helps you buy a quality home earlier.We also talk through real examples, including profession-based waivers, new no-LMI policies, and family guarantor options.In this episode: 🔑 What LMI actually is and why banks charge it 🔑 How LMI affects your borrowing power and interest rate 🔑 The main ways first home buyers can avoid or reduce LMI 🔑 When paying LMI is actually worth it 🔑 How LMI fits into your long-term strategy as a first home buyerTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) 01:59 - What is LMI? 04:57 - Options for FHB’s to Avoid Paying LMI15:51 - When Paying LMI is Worth it 19:39 - How LMI is Priced 22:05 - Key Takeaways of LMI Unlock your Free Resources Unlocking LMI Resource Want to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
Your Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) is one of those terms you’ll hear a lot when applying for a loan, but not every first home buyer understands how it actually impacts your interest rate, your approval, or how much flexibility it can open up for your future.In this episode, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates break down LVR in clear, simple terms, what it is, how it’s calculated, and why it matters so much for your first home strategy.You’ll also learn how LVR works under the First Home Guarantee, what to think about when borrowing at 95% LVR, and how your LVR improves naturally over time as you build equity.In this episode: 🔑 What LVR actually is and how it’s calculated 🔑 Why banks care about LVR and how it affects rates 🔑 How LVR influences lending policy and flexibility 🔑 How LVR works under the First Home Guarantee (5% Deposit Scheme) 🔑 How LVR and equity work together as your loan and property value changeTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Loan to Value Ratio (LVR02:04 - What is Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) & Why it Matters? 05:52 - LVR and Lending Policy08:27 - LVR Under the First Home Guarantee (5% Deposit Scheme)11:48 - Understanding the Risk of 95 % LVR12:49 - The Relationship Between LVR and Equity14:59 - Using LVR to Build Leverage and Flexibility18:22 - LVR Episode Recap Unlock your Free Resources Unlocking LVR Resource Episode 6 | Unlocking Asset Quality: How to Choose the Right Property as a First Home BuyerWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
You’ve probably seen the claim online that paying your mortgage fortnightly will save you thousands in interest. In this episode, Jack Elliott and Chris Bates break down why that isn’t always true, and why it all comes down to how your bank actually calculates your repayments.You’ll learn the two different repayment methods lenders use, when the “save thousands” theory works, and when switching to fortnightly makes no difference at all. We also cover how to choose the right repayment method for you.In this episode:🔑 The two ways banks calculate weekly and fortnightly repayments🔑 When the “save thousands” theory actually works and when it doesn’t🔑 How to choose the right repayment frequency for your situationTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction and What’s Happening in the First Home Buyer Market (November 2025)03:00 - The Viral Fortnightly Repayment Claim Explained 03:41 - The Half-Monthly Repayment Method & Example Breakdown05:35 - Paying Your Loan on Your Terms (Not the Bank’s)08:15 - The Actual Repayment Method & Example Breakdown09:34 - Why Lenders Use Different Repayment Methods 12:39 - Jack’s Take: Why Monthly Repayments Often Work Best 13:13 - Chris’s Take: Cashflow, Behaviour, and Real-Life Strategy 14:58 - Considerations for Investment Purchases & Wrap-UpUnlock your Free Resources Unlocking Repayment Frequency Resource MoneySmart Mortgage Calculator Episode 21 | Unlocking Unlocking How Your Mortgage Actually WorksWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
Most first home buyers think a mortgage is just a loan but understanding how it actually works can help you use it as a tool for long-term flexibility and freedom.In this episode, Jack Elliott breaks down how your mortgage works behind the scenes, from principal and interest to loan terms, repayment options, and how banks calculate interest daily. You’ll learn what really happens after settlement, how repayments are structured, and what influences the total cost of your loan over time.If you’ve ever wondered where your money actually goes each month or how lenders calculate your repayments, this episode explains it all in clear, simple terms.In this episode: 🔑 What a mortgage actually is 🔑 Principal, interest, and how repayments are calculated 🔑 How interest is charged daily and what that means for you 🔑 Loan terms explained and how they shape total repayments🎧 Listen now and understand exactly how your mortgage works with clarity and confidence.Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to how your Mortgage Actually Works 01:28 - What is a Mortgage? 02:06 - Key Parts of a Mortgage02:59 - Understanding Interest & How it is Calculated 03:24 - How Much Do You Really Pay Back? 04:55 - Understanding Interest Rates 05:34 - Variable Interest Rates 06:58 - Fixed Interest Rate08:07 - Rates Will Change Over Time & Assessment Buffers 08:59 - How Repayments Work 10:23 - Loan Terms & Flexibility 11:54 - Loan Fees & Features 12:16 - Wrap Up on Understanding Mortgages & Key TakeawayUnlock your Free Resources Unlocking How Your Mortgage Actually Works Resource Episode 1 | Unlocking Your Property Vision as a First Home Buyer Episode 3 | Unlocking the Real Cost of Buying Your First Home Episode 6 | Unlocking Asset Quality: How to Choose the Right Property as a First Home BuyerWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
The First Home Guarantee Scheme has a new name, it’s now called the 5% Deposit Scheme, but how it actually works, and what the latest report reveals, might surprise you.In this episode, Jack Elliott unpacks the 2024–25 Financial Year Housing Australia Report and clears up the biggest myths surrounding the scheme: that it’s brand new, that it’s tied to one political party, and that it’s high-risk for buyers. You’ll learn what the data really shows about borrower performance, how the scheme is being used across Australia, and what it actually costs to buy under it.Whether you’ve heard mixed messages online or you’re wondering if this could help you buy sooner, this conversation will help you understand the facts and how to use the scheme strategically.In this episode: 🔑 Why the 5% Deposit Scheme isn’t new (and how it’s evolved since 2020) 🔑 The real numbers from the 2024–25 Housing Australia Report 🔑 How arrears and defaults compare to the broader market 🔑 What “borrowing at 95% LVR” really means for risk and buffers 🔑 Why you’ll need more than a 5% deposit once all upfront costs are included.Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to the 5% Deposit Scheme Report 01:55 - What is the 5% Deposit Scheme? 02:22 - Misconception 1: The Scheme is New 03:56 - Misconception 2: It is a Labour Only Scheme 04:41 - Misconception 3: There’s a high risk of defaults or arrears05:33 - Understanding the Risk of using the 5% Deposit Scheme 06:45 - Misconception 4: You only need a 5% deposit to buy09:03 - What the 2024–25 Financial Year Report Shows01:20 - The Key Takeaway when using the 5% Deposit Scheme 10:51 - Wrap-Up & What’s Coming NextUnlock your Free Resources The Truth About the 5% Deposit Scheme ResourceHGS Trends and Insights Report 2024-25Original 5% Deposit Scheme Accountment (2020)National Arrears Data Episode 1 | Unlocking Your Property Vision as a First Home Buyer Episode 3 | Unlocking the Real Cost of Buying Your First Home Episode 6 | Unlocking Asset Quality: How to Choose the Right Property as a First Home BuyerEpisode 10 | Unlocking the First Home Guarantee Scheme: Buying Your First Home With 5% DepositWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
Western Australia offers some strong incentives to help first home buyers reduce upfront costs and enter the market with confidence, but knowing how to use them strategically is what makes the difference.In this episode, Jack Elliott breaks down what’s available as of October 2025, including WA’s stamp duty concessions for first home buyers, the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant for new builds, updates to the First Home Guarantee Scheme, and Keystart’s shared equity and low-deposit options.You’ll learn who’s eligible, how each incentive works, and how to think strategically about which programs genuinely support your long-term goals, not just short-term savings.In this episode: 🔑 Stamp duty concessions for first home buyers in WA 🔑 $10,000 First Home Owner Grant explained 🔑 First Home Guarantee: Buy with 5% and pay no LMI 🔑 Keystart Shared Equity and Low-Deposit Loan overview 🔑 Strategy insights to build long-term flexibility and equityTimestamps 00:00 – Intro: WA incentives overview01:42 – Stamp duty concessions03:00 – Example breakdowns & eligibility04:05 – Strategy: don’t chase savings05:06 – $10K First Home Owner Grant06:46 – First Home Guarantee updates08:28 – Shared Home Ownership (Keystart)11:13 – Strategy: pros & cons of shared equity12:22 – Wrap up & next stepsUnlock your Free Resources WA First Home Buyer ResourceFirst Home Owner Rate of DutyStamp Duty CalculatorFirst Home Owners GrantFirst Home Guarantee Scheme Opening Doors Shared EquityWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
South Australia offers a range of incentives to help first home buyers reduce upfront costs and enter the market sooner, but knowing which ones actually support your long-term goals is key.In this episode, Jack Elliott breaks down what’s available as of October 2025, including the state’s full stamp duty relief for new homes, the $15,000 First Home Owner Grant, updates to the First Home Guarantee Scheme, and South Australia’s own shared equity option through HomeStart Finance.You’ll learn who’s eligible, how each incentive works, and where to think strategically about how these programs fit within your bigger plan, not just your short-term savings.In this episode: 🔑 Full stamp duty relief on eligible new homes and land 🔑 $15,000 First Home Owner Grant explained 🔑 First Home Guarantee: Buy with 5% and pay no LMI 🔑 HomeStart Shared Equity Option overview 🔑 Strategy insights for choosing long-term value over short-term savingsTimestamps 00:00 – Intro: SA incentives overview01:05 – Stamp duty relief explained03:13 – Strategy: long-term focus04:30 – $15K First Home Owner Grant06:14 – First Home Guarantee update07:43 – HomeStart Shared Equity Option11:39 – Strategy: pros & cons12:33 – Wrap up & next stepsUnlock your Free Resources SA First Home Buyer ResourceStamp Duty Relief Stamp Duty Calculator First Home Owners GrantFirst Home Guarantee Scheme HomeStart - Shared Equity OptionWant to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
The Northern Territory offers some of the most generous first home buyer incentives in Australia from full stamp duty exemptions for new builds, to grants worth up to $50,000. But understanding which ones truly support your long-term goals is key.In this episode, Jack Elliott breaks down what’s available as of October 2025, including the House and Land Package Exemption, HomeGrown Territory Grants, the First Home Guarantee Scheme, and the HomeBuild Access shared equity program.You’ll learn who’s eligible, how each incentive works, and how to think strategically about using these programs, so you can make decisions that build long-term flexibility and wealth, not just short-term savings.In this episode: 🔑 Full stamp duty exemption for eligible house-and-land packages 🔑 $50,000 HomeGrown Territory Grant for new homes 🔑 First Home Guarantee Scheme — buy with 5% and pay no LMI 🔑 HomeBuild Access program — low-deposit and subsidised loan options 🔑 Strategy insights to help you focus on quality and long-term valueTimestamps00:00 – Intro: NT incentives overview00:50 – Stamp duty exemption explained02:20 – Eligibility & key details03:55 – Strategy: long-term thinking05:05 – $50K HomeGrown Grant (new homes)08:05 – Strategy: new vs established09:20 – First Home Guarantee overview10:45 – NT price caps & updates12:10 – HomeBuild Access overview13:35 – Low-deposit & subsidised loan options17:30 – Strategy: shared equity pros & cons18:25 – Wrap up & next stepsUnlock your Free ResourcesNT First Home Buyer ResourceHouse & Land Package Exemption (HLPE)Home Grown Territory Grant - New HomesFirst Home Guarantee Scheme HomeBuild Access Shared Equity Scheme Want to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
Victoria offers a range of incentives to help first home buyers get into the market sooner, from full stamp duty exemptions to a $10,000 grant for new homes and major updates to the First Home Guarantee Scheme.In this episode, Jack Elliott breaks down what’s available as of October 2025, who’s eligible, and how to think strategically about each option. You’ll learn how the concessions and schemes work, what to watch out for with off-the-plan purchases, and why long-term asset quality matters more than short-term savings.In this episode: 🔑 Stamp duty exemptions and concessions explained 🔑 The $10,000 First Home Owner Grant in Victoria 🔑 Updates to the First Home Guarantee and October 2025 changes 🔑 Risks and benefits of off-the-plan purchases 🔑 Why strategy and asset quality should guide your decisionsTimestamps 00:00 – Intro: VIC incentives overview00:55 – Stamp duty explained01:47 – Full exemption & concessional rates03:12 – Eligibility criteria & income caps04:20 – Example breakdowns (up to $800K)05:18 – Strategy: asset quality over savings06:42 – $10K First Home Owner Grant explained07:38 – What types of properties qualify09:10 – Strategy: new vs established homes09:56 – First Home Guarantee overview10:40 – VIC price cap & income cap updates (Oct 2025)12:05 – Combining incentives & trade-offs14:02 – Long-term strategy & recapUnlock your Free Resources VIC First Home Buyer ResourceFirst Home Buyer Duty Exemption or ConcessionOff the Plan Stamp Duty ConcessionStamp Duty CalculatorFirst Home Owners GrantFirst Home Guarantee SchemeVictorian Homebuyer Fund - Shared Equity Scheme Want to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
Tasmania offers a mix of incentives that can help first home buyers cut upfront costs and get into the market sooner. From full stamp duty exemptions on established homes, to a $10,000 First Home Owner Grant for new builds, the First Home Guarantee with higher price caps, and the MyHome shared equity scheme, there’s a lot to weigh up.In this episode, Jack Elliott walks you through what’s available in Tasmania as of October 2025, who’s eligible, and the key benefits and trade-offs to consider. You’ll also learn why long-term strategy and asset quality should guide your decisions, not just chasing the biggest discount.In this episode: 🔑 How Tasmania’s stamp duty exemptions work for established homes under $750K 🔑 The $10,000 First Home Owner Grant explained (and what types of homes qualify) 🔑 Updates to the First Home Guarantee in TAS, with higher price caps from October 2025 🔑 How the MyHome shared equity scheme works, and its key trade-offs 🔑 Why focusing on strategy and asset quality will set you up better than short-term savingsTimestamps 00:00 – Intro: TAS incentives overview01:50 – Stamp duty exemption under $750K03:04 – Strategy: stretch beyond the cap?04:22 – Example breakdowns ($750K vs $800K)04:47 – Extra: off-the-plan concession04:59 – $10K First Home Owner Grant explained06:42 – Strategy: new ≠ always better06:26 – First Home Guarantee (new price caps)08:00 – MyHome Shared Equity Scheme11:22 – Living with shared equity (rules & limits)12:44 – Strategy: pros & cons of shared equity13:37 – Wrap up & next stepsUnlock your Free Resources TAS First Home Buyer ResourceFirst Home Buyers of Established Homes Duty ReliefFirst Home Owners GrantMyHome Shared Equity SchemeMyHome Shared Equity Scheme Income LimitsFirst Home Guarantee Scheme Want to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
The ACT takes a different approach to first home buyer support. There’s no First Home Owner Grant and no first home buyer specific stamp duty exemption instead, buyers get access to the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, which provides full or partial stamp duty relief to anyone purchasing a home to live in.In this episode, Jack Elliott breaks down what’s available in the ACT as of September 2025, who’s eligible, and the key benefits and trade-offs to keep in mind. You’ll also learn how the First Home Guarantee Scheme applies in the ACT, with major changes to price caps and income limits from October 2025.By the end, you’ll understand how these incentives work, and why your long-term property strategy should still guide your decisions, not just the upfront savings.In this episode: 🔑 How the ACT Home Buyer Concession Scheme works (exemptions, concessional rates, and income limits) 🔑 Real examples of stamp duty savings in the ACT 🔑 Updates to the First Home Guarantee in ACT, price caps and income caps 🔑 Why asset quality and long-term strategy matter more than short-term savingsTimestamps 00:00 – Intro: Why the ACT does things differently01:32 – What is stamp duty & the Home Buyer Concession Scheme02:53 – Examples: $1.02M, $1.4M & $1.6M purchases03:31 – Eligibility & income thresholds05:45 – Strategy insight: Should you stretch beyond the cap?07:08 – The First Home Guarantee in the ACT08:37 – Key changes from October 202508:47 – Wrap up & next stepsUnlock your Free Resources ACT First Home Buyer ResourceHome Buyer Concession SchemeACT Stamp Duty CalculatorFirst Home Guarantee Scheme Want to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au
New South Wales has a range of incentives designed to help first home buyers reduce upfront costs and enter the market sooner. From stamp duty concessions to the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant, and the First Home Guarantee Scheme with rising price caps, there’s a lot to understand.In this episode, Jack Elliott walks you through what’s available in NSW as of September 2025, who’s eligible, and the key benefits and trade-offs to keep in mind. You’ll learn how each incentive works, and why your property strategy and asset quality matter more than simply chasing the biggest discount.In this episode: 🔑 How NSW stamp duty concessions and exemptions work (and where they phase out) 🔑 The $10,000 First Home Owner Grant explained 🔑 Updates to the First Home Guarantee in NSW, price caps and income caps 🔑 Why strategy and asset quality matter more than short-term savingsTimestamps00:00 – What’s available for first home buyers in NSW01:34 – Stamp duty concessions explained (with examples)05:14 – The $10,000 First Home Owner Grant07:33 – The First Home Guarantee Scheme and October 2025 changes09:11 – Recap of NSW incentives and key takeaways09:42 – Strategy, resources, and next stepsUnlock your Free Resources NSW First Home Buyer ResourceFirst Home Buyers Assistance SchemeNSW Home Buyer Assistance FinderNSW Stamp Duty Transfer Calculator First Home Owner (New Homes) GrantFirst Home Guarantee Scheme Want to keep the conversation going? 👉 Join the First Home Unlocked Facebook Community 📅 Book a chat with Jack for tailored support 📱Follow Us on social media: Instagram, TikTok, Youtubefirsthomeunlocked.com.au




